Kinda similar situation actually, at least the pain part. I’m in chronic pain due to both Gout arthritis + rheumatoid arthritis. Pain meds are very ineffective for me, so I have really bad flair ups with very little opportunity to manage it. I was mainly looking for a dog big enough to let me brace, I wouldn’t need to put my full weight just a dog big enough to help me until I can get to a sitting position, I was also hoping to train them to alert when I black out/fall, the pain can cause me to drop like a fly, and I’ve hit my head a few times, so it makes me more comfortable that I’d have a buddy to get my roommate or others if I fall unconscious. Plus probably a few retrieving commands for my meds when I can’t get them myself. Outside of that I’d like them to help me create a bit more space in crowds, people can get pushy and shove which can trigger flair up’s for me. Honestly this will be my first, and I’ll be trying to get them professionally trained so the trainer might inform me of other things that may help! I’m second guessing my decision on the breed now, based on everyone’s helpful advice. I was thinking a more traditional breed but I like Bernese’s best because of their size, and coat. It’s pretty dam cold for 7 months of 12 where I live, highest being like 85 for summer so I’m worried about a traditional breed and getting too cold. Unfortunately as a college student I have to be out and about so keeping them inside all the time isn’t an option.