An Evaluative Study on Impressions of Guide Dogs

- An Analysis based on Awareness and Morphological Evaluation of Guide Dogs -

Abstract

To facilitate the visually impaired participate in the society,it is essential that the guide dogs which accompany them should be accepted as well. In this study, we attempted to identify any problems associated with promoting societal participation of guide dogs, by analyzing impressions of the general public concerning guide dogs focusing mainly on morphological aspects. We used the Eye Tracker System (Manufactured by Tobii) to analyze line-of-sight measurements. In addition to it, we used the interval AHP method for subjective appraisal. From the results, it became clear that: (1) compared to high awareness of the name ‘guide dog’, its role and attributes are less understood. (2) the public tend to have more favorable impressions on the visually impaired when they are accompanied by guide dogs.(3) Labrador retriever especially pale colored one is the best favored by the public.