15 Best Therapy Dog Breeds for Emotional Support

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Did you know that over 50% of American households own a dog, and many of them are therapy dogs providing emotional support and comfort? Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, or loneliness, the right therapy dog can make all the difference. In this gallery, we’ll explore 15 of the best therapy dog breeds that are not just loyal companions, but also incredibly effective in offering emotional healing. Let’s find out which therapy dog is your perfect fit!

Labrador Retriever

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Labrador Retrievers are cherished for their calm behaviour and unwavering loyalty. They have innate ability to sense and respond to emotional needs makes them ideal for therapy, especially in settings like hospitals and nursing homes, where their gentle presence can be truly transformative.

Source: American Kennel Club (AKC)

Golden Retriever

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Golden Retrievers, with their friendly disposition and intuitive nature, excel in therapy work. They’re particularly effective in helping children, thanks to their patience and gentleness. Whether in schools or rehabilitation centres, Goldens have a special way of lifting spirits.

Source: Therapy Dogs International (TDI)

Cavalier King Charles Spanie

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Small but mighty in affection, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a favourite for therapy in intimate settings. Loving eyes and a calm attitude make them ideal companions for elderly patients, offering both comfort and companionship in a gentle way.

Source: American Kennel Club (AKC)

Poodle

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Poodles, especially Standards, are prized for their intelligence and versatility. While hypoallergenic coats are a bonus, it’s their sharp intuition and adaptability that truly set them apart in therapy roles. They excel whether visiting allergy-sensitive individuals or providing support in various environments.

Source: Poodle Club of America (PCA)

Beagle

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Beagles bring a playful energy to their therapy work, making them excellent for interacting with children. Their curious nature and ability to quickly form bonds help them thrive in situations where a little cheer is needed, such as paediatric wards.

Source: Beagle Freedom Project (BFP)

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dogs are large and affectionate, known for their soothing presence. With their size and calm temperament, they provide a calming influence, especially in hospices where offering both physical and emotional warmth is highly valued.

Source: American Kennel Club (AKC)

French Bulldog

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French Bulldogs might be small, but their affectionate nature makes a big impact. They excel in urban therapy settings, where their size and adaptability allow them to navigate busy environments easily, bringing comfort to those in need with their quiet companionship.

Source: American Kennel Club (AKC)

Corgi

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Corgis, with their playful spirit and sharp minds, bring a unique energy to therapy work. They’re particularly effective with children, where their lively personality and approachable size make them fun yet soothing companions in therapeutic environments.

Source: Pembroke Welsh Corgi Club of America (PWCCA)

Boxer

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Boxers are known for their energetic and affectionate nature, making them excellent for therapy with individuals who benefit from both emotional and physical engagement. A lively spirit brings joy, while a loyal nature offers a reassuring presence.

Source: American Kennel Club (AKC)

Great Dane

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Great Danes, despite their imposing size, are gentle and calm, making them effective therapy dogs for those dealing with anxiety or stress. Their quiet strength provides a comforting presence, helping people feel safe and supported in their time of need.

Source: American Kennel Club (AKC)

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus provide comfort through their loving nature and ability to form close bonds with people. Small in size, they are ideal for therapy in hospitals and care homes, where they can sit with patients and offer a calming, affectionate presence.

Source: American Shih Tzu Club (ASTC)

Bichon Frise

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Bichon Frises are cheerful and gentle, bringing light and joy wherever they go. With a hypoallergenic coat perfect for therapy settings involving allergy-sensitive individuals, they also bring a friendly, playful nature that helps uplift spirits in diverse environments.

Source: American Kennel Club (AKC)

German Shepherd

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German Shepherds excel in therapy work that requires both emotional intelligence and discipline. Their loyalty and protective instincts make them especially effective in more challenging environments, such as rehabilitation centres, where they can offer both comfort and reassurance.
Source: American Kennel Club (AKC)

Yorkshire Terrier

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Yorkshire Terriers are small but provide immense comfort with their affectionate personalities. They are particularly effective in settings where space is limited, such as hospitals or care facilities, where their size and warmth make them perfect lap dogs for those in need of emotional support.

Source: Yorkshire Terrier Club of America (YTCA)

Collie

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Collies are known for their gentle and intuitive nature, making them exceptional therapy dogs. By connecting with human emotions, they provide comfort in various settings, such as schools and therapy centers, where their calm and reassuring presence is highly valued.

Source: Collie Club of America (CCA)

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