An emotional support animal is excellent for those struggling in some areas. For example, having a special companion can ease these emotions if you often feel lonely, anxious, or stressed.
However, you do not want just any animal, but a small dog breed! Many small dogs tend to be extremely loving as they need lots of attention, so they will gladly be your next companion! So, what are the best small dog breeds for emotional support? They are as follows:
- Corgi
- Poodle
- Chihuahua
- Pug
- Bichon Frisé
- Beagle
This article will go into detail about the behaviors of each dog and whether they are hypoallergenic or not. We will discuss frequently asked questions, like what qualifies as an emotional support dog and if they are allowed in public areas, like on flights. If you are interested in this information, please continue reading for more.
What Is an Emotional Support Dog?
An emotional support dog (ESA) is a pet, not a service dog. These animals are prescribed as such under any mental health professional, like a psychologist, therapist, or psychiatrist. These animals can be any breed and any age, ensuring you can pick and choose which animal suits your needs best.
For example, if you wish to have a large Golden Retriever to take them out on long walks and exercise, then you have every right to do so. However, if you want a little dog, like a chihuahua, that option is there too.
What Are the Best Small Dog Breeds for Emotional Support?
The best small dog breeds for your emotional needs are listed below. However, if you are short on time, we have created a graph below.
1. Corgi
Corgi’s are an excellent choice to have as a pet. Not only are they extremely temperamental with their friendly and playful attitude, but they can help you eliminate any negative emotions you might have. They are always obedient, happy, and cheerful canines!
If you love to exercise, having a corgi will be your best friend, as they require a lot of exercise. This is because they were originally bred to be herders. A corgi is still considered a world-class herder, especially sheep.
In terms of their shedding, these animals shed quite often, especially in the spring and summer. Due to this, they are not considered hypoallergenic.
Their life expectancy is anywhere between 12 to 13 years, and they can weigh up to 30 pounds! However, despite how heavy they can become, these animals only grow to be roughly 10 to 12 inches. Who knew such a small animal could have so much to offer?
2. Poodle
Poodles are extremely intelligent dogs that will provide you with plenty of joy! They were originally bred as hunting dogs, requiring a lot of energy, as they have not lost this specific skill over the last several years.
These dogs can range from tiny to large. Consider getting the tiny toy poodle, mid-sized miniature poodle, and large standard poodle.
Lastly, poodles are hypoallergenic and have hair, not fur. The difference is that fur will fall off at a certain point, whereas hair does not stop growing. It must be maintained constantly, and we recommend finding a good groomer.
3. Chihuahua
A chihuahua is one of the smallest breeds in the world and is very affectionate and loyal to their owners. They have bursts of energy where they get the zoomies around the house but do not require long walks. In that case, if you are someone who loves to be inside the home, a chihuahua is one of the best pets to get.
When chihuahuas are small puppies, they are very energetic. However, they start to calm down roughly 12 to 24 months after being born. Still, some chihuahuas may be yappy or nippy. In that case, it might be best not to have them if you have small children.
In terms of shedding, chihuahuas shed the most in the spring and the fall, making them not hypoallergenic. Both long-haired and short-haired chihuahuas are considered moderate shedders and will need regular coating care.
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4. Pug
Pugs are just a massive joy to be around due to their happy expressions and surprised looks. Not only that, but they are extremely gentle and affectionate. Plus, they are extremely playful, making them a great companion to have as an emotional support dog! If you are feeling sad, pugs will gladly help eliminate those feelings.
These animals have a lot of energy but can easily become lazy as they sleep roughly 14 hours daily. However, they love running outside with their owners, which can give you fresh air. Not only that, but you will be receiving lots of vitamin D from the sun! However, they do not like long walks, so if you were to walk them, split it into two short walks.
Lastly, pugs shed quite a bit due to their double coat, making them not hypoallergenic. You will need to brush their coats every 1 to 3 days to ensure it does not get everywhere. However, you will be happy to know their coats are short and glossy!
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5. Bichon Frisé
A bichon frisé is very gentle, playful, and affectionate. They are very curious about the world and can be good watchdogs if they receive proper training. On top of this, they are happy to love on your friends and family, making them a wonderful dog to have when you need emotional support.
This specific dog sheds a little bit, but not as much, making them extremely hypoallergenic. They are the perfect little companion for those with many allergies and who need a hug or cuddle. However, we recommend still brushing their hair once or twice a week.
Lastly, their energy levels are medium. They require some exercise, but not as much as other breeds. In that case, make sure to provide them with plenty of outdoor exercise, interactive games, and walks to ensure they get plenty of exercise. Preferably 30 minutes to an hour each day.
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6. Beagle
The last dog breed on our list today is the famous beagle. These dogs are used worldwide for hunting purposes. More specifically, they were specifically bred to hunt hares and rabbits. They are extremely great trackers as they have an excellent sense of smell. Because of their tracking abilities, they have very high energy levels and need roughly 2 hours of exercise daily.
In terms of their behaviors, beagles have a happy, gentle, and friendly temperament. Their behavior is perfect for anyone who has a mental disorder, as they are not too timid or aggressive. Not only that, but they will gladly love the people you bring to your home, as they love the affection!
Lastly, they have a medium-sized coat and shed quite a bit, meaning they are not hypoallergenic. Their coat is not very long, but they still require brushing roughly twice a week.
Do You Qualify to Get an Emotional Support Dog?
You qualify for an emotional support dog if you are diagnosed with any emotional illness or mental disability. For example, if you have PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other such conditions like these, then having an emotional support dog will greatly help you.
Emotional support dogs do not need training before qualifying to become an emotional support animal. Although, they are not covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA.)
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), a licensed mental health professional can prescribe for your dog to become an official emotional support animal. This is to protect you and your animal if you have any issues with your landlord or if someone questions the validity of your emotional support animal. However, the registration itself is not necessary.
Can You Say Your Dog Is an Emotional Support Dog?
Technically, you can say any of your animals are emotional support animals. However, your dog must be registered as an emotional support animal (ESA) to qualify as one officially. They need to be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional to someone who has a mental illness. Are Emotional Support Dogs Allowed on Flights?
No, emotional support animals cannot be allowed on flights. This is because they are not properly trained to handle that environment.
However, if you have a service animal, then they can fly with you. Many airplane companies allow this free of charge and have team members trained to ask specific questions before they are accepted for travel.
A service dog is specifically trained to handle people who have disabilities, such as sensory overload, intellectual, physical, psychiatric or other mental disabilities.
Conclusion
To summarize everything in a nutshell, we highly encourage you to consider one of the dogs mentioned above. Not only are they an excellent choice for your overall well-being, but you are also giving them something else in return, which is your love and affection!
We encourage you to check out more of our articles, especially about a specific type of breed! We hope you enjoyed reading this and learned something new today.
