Need Emotional Support? Which Dog Breeds Are the Best?

Recently when I was on a flight going to South Carolina, there were several dogs flying with their owners.  They all had harnesses that stated that they were emotional support animals, and were very well behaved during the flight.  Mostly just sat quietly with their owners - as is what they are supposed to do.  The dogs varied in breeds which got me to thinking, which dogs are best for that type of companionship.

WHAT DOGS WORK BEST AS EMOTIONAL SUPPORT COMPANIONS

This is a list from the site Pettable.com  They have so much information on why someone would need an emotional support dog, and which dogs are best, and which ones might be best for a particular person.

Labrador Retriever

Because of their friendly nature, and also because they are easily trained, Labs make great companion/support animals.

• Size: Medium to large (55-80 lbs)‍
• Color: Yellow, black, chocolate‍
• Temperament: Friendly, gentle, loyal, and trainable‍
• Ideal For: Creating a calm, stable atmosphere with affectionate companionship

Golden Retriever

Another friendly, grounded and at times calm, especially when their owner needs that, you bring in a Golden Retriever.  Great as family dogs too.

• Size: Medium to large (55-75 lbs)‍
• Color: Golden shades‍
• Temperament: Intelligent, calm, friendly, and social‍
• Ideal For: Providing grounding comfort and a supportive presence during anxiety

Poodle (Standard or Miniature)

We used to have a poodle mix dog.  Best dog.  Very friendly, a little demanding at times.  They also love to cuddle, so if that is something that will help someone with their anxiety, this is a great dog to have.

• Size: Standard (45-70 lbs) or Miniature (10-15 lbs)‍
• Color: Various, including white, black, and apricot‍
• Temperament: Intelligent, hypoallergenic, structured, and adaptable‍
• Ideal For: Adding structure to your day with a hypoallergenic, low-shedding coat

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

I have one of these dogs, and the dog that was right next to me on the plane was also a cavalier.  These dogs are absolutely velcro dogs.  That can be very soothing for someone with anxiety.  They seem to really care about their owners.

• Size: Small (13-18 lbs)‍
• Color: Chestnut, tri-color, black & tan, or ruby‍
• Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and calm‍
• Ideal For: Snuggling and providing warmth and comfort during low moments

Chihuahua

My first thought is a CHIHUAHUA??!!  Really?  But yes, they are great support animals.  They fit into large purses and can go with you as you run daily errands, or just sitting on your lap, or curling up next to you.

• Size: Tiny (3-6 lbs)‍
• Color: Variety of colors and patterns‍
• Temperament: Loyal, lively, and loving‍
• Ideal For: Lap dog companionship, fitting easily into small living spaces

French Bulldog

These dogs are great!  They are like potatoes with legs.  They basically want to hang out and chill with you all day on the couch.  Great companion dogs.

• Size: Small (16-28 lbs)‍
• Color: Fawn, brindle, cream, and more‍
• Temperament: Relaxed, easygoing, and affectionate‍
• Ideal For: Low-maintenance companionship with minimal exercise needs

Pug

These snorty dogs will be so happy to see you every time you come home.  Doesn't matter if it's 5 minutes or an entire day.  The reaction is usually the same.  Plus, they don't require a lot of maintenance.  Easy dogs.

• ‍Size: Small (14-18 lbs)‍
• Color: Fawn, black‍
• Temperament: Cheerful, laid-back, and people-loving‍
• Ideal For: Boosting mood with their playful energy and simple, cozy lifestyle

Yorkshire Terrier

These dogs are not great for this in my opinion, but people who own them absolutely love them.  I have found them to be a bit aggressive at times, but I'm not the owner.  So things might be different in that situation.

• Size: Tiny (4-7 lbs)‍
• Color: Blue & tan‍
• Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, and adaptable‍
• Ideal For: Apartment living and companionship, especially for traveling or errands

Great Dane

Not sure if this is actually a small horse or a giant dog.  Obviously a giant dog.  They really are gentle giants.  Probably the biggest (see what I did there) thing about these pups is that their life expectancy isn't that long.  Only 7-10 years.

• Size: Extra-large (110-175 lbs)‍
• Color: Fawn, black, harlequin, brindle, and others‍
• Temperament: Calm, gentle, and protective‍
• Ideal For: Providing a sense of security with their relaxed, comforting presence

Whatever the breed of dog is that you choose has to be right for you and your lifestyle.  You will know which one is right.

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