Best Emotional Support Dog Breeds for Anxiety and Depression

In today's fast-paced and deadline-based era, we all are busy chasing goals. During this, we often get agitated, irritated, stressed, and sometimes develop mental fatigue; depression and anxiety are also common due to this.

Apart from expert help (therapy or medicine), one of the best ways to deal with it is to have an emotional support dog breed at home. These dogs have better cognitive intelligence, which helps them to understand their owner's mental health issues and assists them in this journey.

With their little paws, innocent eyes, and endless love, they remove all the anxiety, depression, and stress. Data shows that emotional support dogs help to increase the serotonin and dopamine (happiness-controlling hormones) in the body and elevate mental health.

Therefore, if you are stressed over (reason may vary), you can have an emotional support dog breed to deal with this, and here is the guide for that.
Let's start the paw-some journey!

The Definition of an Emotional Support Dog

An emotional support dog is known for providing companionship and mental health support. Due to their higher emotional intelligence, emotional support dogs can understand whether their human is struggling with mental health issues and, based on that, provide therapeutic support.

Emotional support dog helps in battling with issues such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, chronic stress, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

According to federal law in the United States, to be known as an emotional support dog, the canine pal must acquire a supportive letter from a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist.

However, they do not require specific training to do this task. Their natural ability helps them to detect the energy and provide necessary assistance.

What's the difference between emotional support dogs and service dogs?

Many people use the terms- service dogs and emotional support dogs interchangeably.

However, both are pretty different. Although they have similarities in providing necessary support to their owners, their certificates are not similar. Let's dive into the details:

Service Dogs

Service dogs are trained to care for people struggling with mental or physical health, so they have certificates, too.

There are dedicated service dogs who are experts in handling individuals struggling with their mental well-being. These dogs are known as psychiatric service dogs.

Psychiatric service dogs have training to handle people with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, etc. They have abilities such as providing deep pressure to calm their owners/ people or turning the lights on for people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Moreover, they can fetch phones for help or arrange necessary help during attacks.

These features have bagged them the title of 'trained medical support.' Based on this, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides protection, allowing them to travel anywhere (from railway to plane) with their owners.

Emotional Support Dogs

The emotional support dogs do not have any training. They work using their natural abilities and presumed learning.

An emotional support dog can do stuff like hugging the owner, bringing the water bottle, licking their face, providing a paw as a friend, etc. Consequently, they don't have any 'medical' title associated with them; they are considered pets.

However, the laws of the United States have made special provisions for emotional support dogs to ensure their owners' mental safety. One can have an emotional support dog in a 'no pet allowed' society.

Here, one must know that to keep a dog as an emotional support dog, an individual must acquire a letter from a medical practitioner such as a psychiatrist.

Therefore, it can be noted that, although they both work with the same aim, their training and approach are poles apart. Hence, they are neither the same nor the terms should be used interchangeably.

Best Emotional Support Dog Breeds for Anxiety and Depression

We all desire a friend who will understand everything without saying a word or listening to our chatter without raising a question; emotional support dogs are those friends. They are playful and love being with their owners and caring for them.

They have higher emotional intelligence, through this, they can sense whether their owners are fighting with mental health issues or not. At that time, they can provide support. They can sit near their owner for hours to feel companionship and to listen to them.

They hug their owners while they cry. They can feel the sadness of their human even without saying a word. It gives an individual the warmth and a feeling of being non-judged. Unlike many breeds, they don't love their personal space.

Here are the best dog breeds for emotional support:

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has its roots in the royal family, but it doesn't have a royal attitude at all. It is a cuddle bug'. These super affectionate pooches love to spend time with their owners and follow them everywhere they go.

This makes them the best dogs for mental health. According to experts, they provide the best support in cases of anxiety and PSTD.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a good IQ level. They love to learn new tricks.

Features of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:

• Temperament: Social, affectionate, playful, gentle
• Lifespan: 9-14 years
• Hypoallergenic: No

2. Pug

Pugs are called 'clowns' in the dog world. They often make their owners laugh with stupid activities, which help reduce stress. One of the most unique features is that they have almost similar human facial expressions. They are friendly and playful.

For their laid-back nature, pugs are one of the best companion dogs if you live on a tight schedule.

However, they need care. They can't adjust to harsh weather. Hence, be careful if you are bringing one.

Features of Pugs:

• Temperament: Charming, clever, playful, social
• Lifespan: 12-15 years
• Hypoallergenic: No

3. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are popular for their gentle, nurturing, and friendly nature. They are one of the best companion dogs. Their instinct to connect with people and support them emotionally makes them one of the best therapy dog breeds for anxiety.

They are highly intelligent dogs, so training them is easy. For this reason, they are often appointed as service dogs. However, be gentle with them while training because they are sensitive souls.

Features of Golden Retrievers

• Temperament: Intelligent, kid-friendly, easy to train, social
• Lifespan: 10-12 years
• Hypoallergenic: No

4. Corgi

If you want an emotional support dog that will be adventurous, supportive, and obedient- you must go for a corgi. They have a strong and sturdy body. It helps them to flex a larger-than-expected personality.

They are highly kid-friendly and sociable. Also, corgis are much like toddlers: full of love and laughter and eager to explore the world.

Although they were bred as herd dogs, they barely howl or chase. They are even-tempered and easy to train.

Features of Corgi

• Temperament: Playful, outgoing, bold, and affectionate
• Lifespan: 12-15 years
• Hypoallergenic: No

5. Border Collie

Border collies can be called a multi-talented dog breed. They are the most intelligent dog breeds in the world and are also known as one of the best dogs for mental health, Due to their high intelligence level, training collie is very easy. They are playful, affectionate, and people pleasers.

Collie loves to spend time with their owner. Also, they are hard dogs and love to play outside. Hence, collie will convince you to take them for a play at your lowest even. It increases the socialization of their owners and elevates mental health.

Features of Border Collie

• Temperament: Intelligent, alert, responsive, affectionate
• Lifespan: 12-15 years
• Hypoallergenic: No

6. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu's can be small, but they have big hearts. With their expressive eyes and comforting nature, they can melt your heart and give you the comfort of love.

Related: Discover the best small dog breeds for every home.

They are one of the most attentive listeners, loving, and can form a deep bond with their owners. Also, Shih Tzu's are meant for smaller spaces. Hence, even living in one BHK apartment, you can have a Shih Tzu. However, you must take care of their coats to keep them healthy.

Features of Shih Tzu

• Temperament: Playful, clever, outgoing, affectionate
• Lifespan: 10-16 years
• Hypoallergenic: Yes

7. Vizsla

Vizslas have been gaining popularity in the US in recent times. They are becoming popular as one of the best companion dogs and emotional support animals (ESA). Vizslas are playful, human-oriented, and intelligent.

These combined features encourage them to be with their owners 24/7 and perform any task for them. They are also people-pleasers, which helps make their owners happy.

However, take note that Vizslas are originally a herd dog breed, which makes them highly energetic. Hence, they need hours of intense exercise and playtime.

Features of Vizsla

• Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, energetic, playful
• Lifespan: 12-15 years
• Hypoallergenic: No

8. English Bulldog

If you want an emotional support dog that is perfect for apartment living and does not need much outdoor time, go for an English bulldog. English bulldogs are one of the calmest dog breeds, naturally providing a sense of calmness to anyone who plays with them.

They love cuddling and playing. However, before bringing them, note that English bulldogs are unsuitable for plane travel as they have breathing issues.

Features of English bulldog

• Temperament: Docile, friendly, social, loyal
• Lifespan: 8-10 years
• Hypoallergenic: No

9. Chihuahua

Chihuahua is one of the most prevalent emotional support dogs. Due to their caring and loving nature, they can provide help to deal with various mental health issues. Their calming presence helps in elevating anyone's mood.

Additionally, they love to spend most of their time in the indoor space. Therefore, you can go for Chihuahua if you do not have much time.

However, train them from the beginning to prevent them from developing bad habits like persistent barking.

Features of Chihuahua

• Temperament: Lively, alert, affectionate, loyal
• Lifespan: 12-20 years
• Hypoallergenic: No

10. Poodles

Poodles come in three sizes—toys, miniature, and standard. Every type works well as an emotional support dog. However, irrespective of their sizes, they are quite adaptable.

Hence, poodles are a great choice if you live in an apartment. Also, irrespective of size, they are keen to learn new tricks and assist their owners in various tasks that help to reduce stress.

However, typically, poodles are high-energy dogs and require training.

Features of Poodles

• Temperament: Intelligent, active, easy to train, affectionate
• Lifespan: 12-15 years
• Hypoallergenic: Yes

The breeds are highlighted here based on their affectionate nature and supportive capabilities; consider all these aspects before adopting them.

Additionally, think about factors like whether they are suitable for indoor space, whether they are comfortable with the weather, etc. For more information, you can have a conversation with a vet.

Benefits of Emotional Support Dogs for People with Anxiety and Depression

In today's no-break lifestyle, people get isolated easily. It inculcates feelings of loneliness, and individuals keep questioning their life purpose.

At this point, developing mental health issues such as anxiety and depression is quite common. Although medicines and therapy are available, they can't beat the power of love.

Emotional support dogs provide love with plenty of little moments of pure laughter.
Well, the benefits of having an emotional support dog are not limited to these. Let's explore the diverse benefits of emotional support dogs.

1. Less Anxiety

One of the key features of anxiety is that it forces an individual to keep on thinking the same thing for hours and raises the insecurity level.

However, petting a furry baby can prevent an individual from returning to the stress. It helps to reduce anxiety and create a feeling of relaxation.

2. Helps in Dealing with Sudden Trauma

Sudden traumas such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or a breakup give a sudden trauma. It also creates a vacuum in life.

However, with unconditional love and companionship, the emotional support dogs help to fill that vacuum. It assists an individual to move on from that trauma and shock.

3. Enhances Physical Health

Most emotional support dogs are cuddle monsters. They also love to lay with humans and learn new tricks from them. This elevates the mood and ensures physical benefits such as low blood pressure levels, decreased respiration rates, and improved ability to cope with pain.

4. Erase the Loneliness

One of the root causes of depression and anxiety is loneliness. Loneliness can also cause sleep deprivation and have a long-term impact on physical health.

However, an emotional support dog provides the feeling of togetherness and companionship and helps to improve the sleep cycle. Both these factors contribute to curing depression and anxiety.

5. Detect the Potential Anxiety Attack

Emotional support dogs can sense changes in cortisol (the hormone responsible for stress) levels in the body. This helps them detect potential anxiety attacks. However, due to a lack of training, the emotional support dogs might take fewer weeks to train.

Once they detect a potential attack, they try to distract the owner by licking or hugging them. They also fetch medicines during the attack. Again, they might take fewer attempts to understand the whole process.

6. Enhance Communication Skills

Poor communication skills adversely impact psychological well-being and can lead to depression. However, when an individual owns an emotional support dog, they usually take it to parks or vets.

In these places, they initiate conversations with similar-minded pet owners most of the time. This improves their communication, enhances social engagement, and helps reduce depression.

7. Sense of Achievement

A sense of achievement helps in reducing depression and contributes to building self-confidence. Now, one might ask how a dog can do this.

Emotional support dogs are clingy. They love to spend time with owners and learn new tricks. Managing these canine pals, training them, and teaching them new things induce a sense of achievement in an individual. Eventually, it contributes to mental health.

Based on the above points, an emotional support dog works as a friend or family member to cure depression and anxiety.

They also contribute to making people calmer, happier, and more fulfilled. They induce a feeling of accomplishment among the owner, which helps to make a positive impact on overall mental health.

The Cons of Having an Emotional Support Dog

Like most of our life decisions, it also comes with specific cons, and as it is a lifetime commitment, one must be aware of these, too.

1. Responsibility

They are like your children. You must train them and spend time with them. In your busy schedule, making a schedule for walks, regular checkups, and feeding them is mandatory.

Hence, it requires a sense of responsibility. Additionally, please note that most emotional dogs are clingy and have separation issues.

2. Time Consuming

As stated, they are the youngest member of your family. Hence, you must book time for them. They need special care such as vet visits, shots, training, bathing, brushing teeth, brushing or cutting coats, cleaning face folds (for some breeds), cutting nails, ear drops, eye drops, etc. Therefore, be ready to make adjustments to your existing schedule.

3. Financial Responsibilities

Like time, you must be ready to take the financial responsibilities. These dogs need regular grooming, specialized products, and vet visits. Sometimes, they can be expensive. Moreover, pet insurance is not cheap.

They also require treats, toys, brushes, wipes, toothpaste, shampoo, leashes, collars, beds, crates, pee pads, jackets, etc.

4. Travel Considerations

As mentioned, dogs are like family members. You can't abandon them when you are traveling. Hence, before planning a trip, consider questions like: Is the hotel pet-friendly? How will they manage? If you are going on a road trip, ensure you have safety tools, such as a dog car seat.

Here, one might ask about the benefits of a dog car seat. The answer is—it prevents them from jumping outside due to excitement.

Although these cons might sound overwhelming at the beginning, it's not. Once you start living with them, things get more accessible than ever.

Their unconditional love makes things manageable for you. Moreover, these cons are trifle issues in front of your mental health.

Bring an Emotional Support Dog to Give Yourself One More Chance

An emotional support dog is a therapeutic tool and a sensible friend who understands your every pain. Like toddlers, emotional support dogs need your time a lot. In addition to time, they need specific accessories and toys to be cheerful and interactive.

If you are confused regarding accessories and toys, you can gift accessories like a waterproof blanket or bandana from Doodle Couture. The blanket will help them to feel cozy at home, while the bandana will give them a complete makeover.

You must own accessories like a no-pull leash from Doodle Couture for high-energy dogs like Vizsla to ensure their highest safety. In the toy part, always gift them interactive toys to keep them happy. What are you thinking about? Bring your emotional support now and enjoy a happy life.