Here Are 10 Empathetic And Lovable Dog Breeds That May Help People With Anxiety And Mental Illness
Many of us made the decision to welcome new puppies into our homes last year – Kennel Club figures show the number of dog owners soared by almost 8% – and demand for friends. on all fours after locking remains elevated.
There is a huge selection of 221 different purebred dog breeds to choose from, as well as plenty of crossbreeds, so there is a lot of thought to be done before selecting the latest addition to your family.
Our lifestyle has a big influence on which type of dog is best for us – if you have limited space you may want to watch small dogs, while the older pet owner should place some breeds in. top of her wishlist.
But if you are looking for a dog for your mental health, you should consider one of the breeds that are proven to make good emotional support animals.
They are gentle, laid-back, and sociable pets that provide their owners with therapeutic benefits including relief from anxiety and make them feel more comfortable in certain social settings.
They are also believed to detect when you are not at your best, lavishing additional affection on you to help you feel your best.
Here are the 10 most empathetic dog breeds, according to the American Kennel Club.
The Labrador Retriever is arguably the most empathetic breed of dog, with an innate skill in knowing how their owners are feeling. They are gentle, friendly and eager to please. Anyone who has ever owned a lab will know that it can make any situation slightly better. Their Golden Retriever cousins also make wonderful therapy dogs.
Photo: Canva / Getty Images
For a smaller emotional support animal, the Yorkshire Terrier is hard to beat. Yorkies are very affectionate and easy to travel with, making them excellent mobile anti-anxiety.
Photo: Canva / Getty Images
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is nicknamed the “Quilt Spaniel” due to the breed’s habit of curling up in its owner’s lap for hours on end.
Photo: Canva / Getty Images
Another small dog capable of providing support in most social settings, the Chihuahua needs little exercise, so they’re perfect for people with less mobility.
Photo: Canva / Getty Images
