Pick of the Litter

Pick of the Litter

Year: 2018

Runtime: 81 min

Language: English

Directors: Dana Nachman, Don Hardy Jr.

Documentary

Follow five endearing puppies – Patriot, Potomac, Primrose, Poppet, and Phil – on their challenging journey to become guide dogs. Over two years, the spirited pups leave their foster homes and enter specialized training, facing demanding evaluations that test their abilities and resilience. The film showcases their progress as they strive to meet the rigorous standards required for this vital role, ultimately hoping to form lasting partnerships with people who need their assistance.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Pick of the Litter (2018)

Trace every key event in Pick of the Litter (2018) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Puppies Born at GDB

A litter of five adorable puppies is born on the Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) campus. These puppies are the progeny of a carefully selected breeder dog, marking the beginning of their journey toward becoming guide dogs.

Guide Dogs for the Blind Campus
2

Puppies Placed with Raisers

At just two months old, the puppies are placed with dedicated volunteer puppy raisers. This initial step is crucial as it sets the foundation for their basic training and socialization over the next several months.

3

Patriot's First Placement

Patriot is placed with his first puppy raiser, Nick. However, he struggles with his behavior during training sessions, prompting a reassessment of his placement.

4

Patriot's Transfer to Adam

Due to difficulties in training, Patriot is transferred to Adam, an Iraq veteran. Together, they develop a deep bond, as Patriot helps Adam manage his PTSD, illustrating the transformative power of this partnership.

5

Patriot’s Additional Training

After his time with Adam, Patriot is returned to GDB for further training. He undergoes more advanced instruction with Melanie and successfully passes his preliminary guide work test, indicating progress in his training.

Guide Dogs for the Blind
6

Patriot's Career Change

As training continues, Patriot encounters challenges, particularly when interacting with other dogs. Ultimately, it is decided that he will be career changed, marking a pivotal moment in his journey.

7

Patriot’s New Role

Despite being career changed, GDB contacts Adam to offer Patriot as an unofficial PTSD assistance dog. This decision underscores the strong connection formed between the two, allowing them to continue their relationship.

8

Phil's Training Begins

Phil starts his journey with puppy raiser Patti. This experience is pivotal as he learns essential commands and social behaviors, establishing a crucial foundation for his future training.

9

Phil’s Transfer to Kristin

After spending time with Patti, Phil is transferred to Kristin, a more experienced raiser. This change provides Phil with enhanced support and guidance, necessary for overcoming training hurdles.

10

Phil’s Return to GDB

Phil returns to GDB for formal training with Adam. Initially, he faces setbacks and does not pass his first preliminary guide work test, marking a challenging moment in his progression.

Guide Dogs for the Blind
11

Phil’s Success

After some time, Phil reattempts the test and successfully passes. His perseverance pays off, and he eventually graduates from the program, ready to serve as a guide dog.

12

Poppet's Journey

Poppet begins her training under Cathy, a seasoned puppy raiser. After completing her initial phase, she returns to GDB for advanced training with Adam, demonstrating steady progress.

13

Poppet's Graduation

Poppet overcomes the challenges encountered during training and successfully graduates. She is matched with Janet, who expresses immense joy as Poppet becomes her fourth guide dog, showcasing their deep connection.

14

Potomac’s Challenges

Potomac begins his training with Linda. However, after facing significant challenges at the age of twelve months, he is ultimately career changed and finds a new loving family in Oregon.

15

Primrose’s Bright Future

Primrose is paired with Rebecca for training and excels throughout the process. GDB recognizes her potential and decides to have her become a breeder, culminating in the heartwarming scene of her giving birth to another litter of puppies.

Last Updated: November 16, 2024 at 17:47

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Pick of the Litter Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Pick of the Litter

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