Dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles are examples of emotional support animals that provide needed relief from mental conditions. They don’t require any special training, yet they can provide relaxation and stress relief. They give animal companions for people suffering from depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and other mental illnesses.Dogs are excellent emotional support animals since they are one of the most tamed animals. Dogs play an important role in many people’s mental health care. They bring entertainment through their antics, companionship when you’re alone, and comfort when you’re lonely. Certified ESA dogs, on the other hand, provide more than that to someone suffering from a mental illness. Their capacity to function normally on a daily basis is dependent on the presence of a canine.We’ve compiled a list of the best dog breeds for emotional support below.
Golden Retriever
The golden retriever is a well-liked, obedient, and gentle breed of dog. They are enormous dogs, yet they are extremely well-behaved. They’re trainable and offer comfort in stressful or emotional occasions. But what distinguishes Golden Retriever from other dogs is that they’ve been bred for millennia to perform one thing: keep humans company.The golden retriever is by far the best emotional support animal for people who needs emotional support. Golden Retrievers are best for people suffering from PTSD. Because of their size, they can provide a feeling of security and safety even if in general they are peaceful and calm dogs. Aside from that, their golden looks and silly actions can provide a lot of entertainment and laughter for people going through depression. Children with Autism and Trauma can also feel better with a Goldie around. Golden retrievers are gentle around children and very protective.
German Sheperd
The German Sheperd is a breed of dog that is highly clever, devoted, and protective. They have a pleasant demeanor and are easily trainable. They are sensitive to the needs of their owners and to childrenGerman Shepherds are well-known for their abilities as service dogs, but they also make excellent emotional support dogs. They are fiercely loyal to their owners, providing comfort to those suffering from PTSD. They have a strong presence that can help someone who is depressed stay grounded. They can quickly be trained to respond appropriately to persons suffering from anxiety or panic disorders.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel often called “cuddlebug” or “comforter spaniel” are great emotional support animals for those with depression or PTSD. They are cute, medium-sized lapdogs that are loving, friendly, and loyal in nature. These dogs developed anxiety when left alone so being with people who need emotional support is beneficial to both parties. Comforter Spaniel is a great dog for first-time owners as they are quiet and low-energy dogs. This means that they do not require extreme physical activities, unlike other dogs. They are happy to just snuggle on the couch all day or to walk with you in the park. Cavalier King Spaniels are the best for renters because they are easy to train and very adaptable to their owner’s routine. They are small and petite in size so oftentimes, they are accepted by landlords. Aside from that, these eager to please dogs do not need much grooming to maintain their luxurious coats.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador retrievers are large energetic dogs that are intelligent, loving and empathetic . They are very food motivated which makes them highly trainable. They require a lot of daily activities that can motivate you to exercise and socialize. Labs are empathetic and have a strong desire to please. They can adapt easily to their owner’s moods during their lowest and best moments. They will curl up by your side and give you big sloppy kisses when you are feeling down or play catch and walk or run in the park with you when you are feeling up to it. Labrador retriever dogs are all-rounders which is why they make great emotional support animals for anyone who needs emotional support but most especially to people with ADD or Autism. They get along with anyone including kids and toddlers, perfect to welcome by families.
Standard Poodle
Standard Poodle is getting less recognition compared to other large size dogs like golden retrievers or labradors as emotional support dogs because of their “toy” looks. In fact, poodles are one of the most intelligent dogs. They have an instinct to interact with people and they stimulate humans to create positive energies like responsibility, confidence, and courage. One great thing about standard poodle is that they prefer human company over animals which also makes them a good companion. They are sensitive to emotions and emotional changes and they help stabilize their owner’s emotions. People with social issues can benefit from standard poodles in awkward situations as these canines are great at socializing with others without being aggressive.
Great Dane
The “Gentle Giant of Canine” is an affectionate, loving, and protective loyal pet. They are friendly to humans and animals alike. Despite being the biggest dog, they love sitting on your lap to show their affection. The usual calm disposition of a great dane can be your island of calm during stressful situations. Their protective but not unfriendly nature can help people who need emotional assistance feel safe during situations in which they usually feel nervous. Great Dane is also a great option if you need emotional support but you live in an apartment. These dogs are called “couch potatoes” because they can adapt to city living easily. They are happy to sit and cuddle with you on your couch whenever you feel lonely.
Corgi
Corgis are known for their clever, responsible, and loving nature. They love to be around their human all the time which is great for those who always need a companion. They can easily pick up their owner’s emotions and be aware of their surroundings to help their owner accordingly. They also have a strong instinct to protect their human. Corgis are playful and goofy which will surely make you laugh with their foxlike faces, stumpy short legs, and long body. They are pretty active, perfect for owners who want physical fitness to supplement emotional needs. Corgis are very loyal “without being needy'” which is why they are one of the best emotional support dogs. This breed of dog has two types: Cardigan and Pembrook Welsh. Both can be emotional support dogs although Pembroom Welsh are preferred because they tend to be more affectionate.
Greyhound
Because of its kind, laid-back attitude, a Greyhound is an excellent emotional support dog. They are clever, calm, affectionate, and well-behaved.Greyhounds, despite their speed, prefer couches and will cuddle with you if you are down. They are quite calm and quiet, which makes them the ideal company while you are alone. They are also extremely sensitive and adept at detecting their owner’s emotions.
Pug
Pugs are affectionate, gentle canines who will provide excellent emotional support. They enjoy being with their human at all times and usually established a strong emotional bond with them. They have a calm attitude that allows them to provide a more positive outlook when their owner is depressed or anxious.Pugs are intelligent, loving sociable dogs who keep their owners focused, attentive, and uplifted when they need it. They enjoy being petted, which is very relaxing for people. They are incredibly pleasant and non-aggressive.
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier is one of the Pit bull-type dogs that have been misjudged for years. Despite their bad reputations, American Staffordshire Terrier is actually a friendly, devoted, and calm dog. They seek plenty of affection but they give back twice as much. American Staffordshire Terrier makes a great emotional support animal. They are stable, eager to please, and respond well to voices. They are calm and respond well to unexpected situations. They don’t get afraid of unexpected movements and loud noises.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are cute, playful dogs that are always looking for adventure. They are confident and affectionate. They tend to require a lot of attention but give it back tenfold. Their small size and hypoallergenic coat make them great for city and apartment living. Yorkshire terriers are excellent emotional support dogs because of their small size, which allows them to accompany their owners wherever they go, including malls, restaurants, and even airplanes. They can sense their moods and can be educated to recognize cues for specific emotions. They are not easily terrified and are surprisingly brave, which is beneficial during panic attacks. Their outgoing demeanor enables someone in need of emotional assistance to stay upbeat even when they are down.
French Bulldog
The French Bulldog, also known as the “Frenchie,” is one of the most lovable dog breeds. They are low-maintenance and quickly adapt to different situations. They have a gentle, kind, and calm demeanor. They are also non-aggressive and do not easily become upset.Frenchies provide exceptional emotional support in a variety of situations. Their upbeat demeanor and funny smiles are guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone’s face, including those suffering from anxiety. When you are undergoing depression, your Frenchie can be your supportive partner that can be with you at all times.
Pomeranian
Because of their friendly and caring temperament, Pomeranians make excellent emotional companions. They are vivacious, bright, and sociable, making them ideal for children, adults, and the elderly. They are a terrific companion everywhere you go because of their modest size.Pomeranians flourish in a variety of environments. Their intelligence allows them to adapt to a variety of conditions. However, their protectiveness towards their human can make them yappy if they are not trained at a young age. If you want to get a dog for emotional support, the breeds listed above are only a few of the options. To be honest, it doesn’t matter what breed your dog is; as long as it’s calm, trainable, friendly, and confident, it’ll be an excellent emotional support. Remember that your relationship with your dog must be reciprocal; you must show them love and affection in order for them to reciprocate with you.