Last Updated on November 14, 2025 by Dogs Vets
Emotional support dogs (ESDs) are much more than just pets—they are life-changing companions, offering invaluable comfort and emotional stability to people living with a variety of mental health challenges. From anxiety and depression to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), these dogs help their owners navigate life’s toughest moments with unconditional love, loyalty, and companionship.
If you’re considering adopting a dog for emotional support, it’s important to choose a breed that fits your lifestyle, temperament, and emotional needs. In this article, we’ll explore the Top 7 best dog breeds for emotional support, backed by expert advice from veterinarians, mental health professionals, and dog behaviorists. We’ll also answer the five most asked questions about emotional support dogs to give you a well-rounded understanding of this special relationship.
The Growing Role of Emotional Support Dogs
In recent years, the role of dogs as emotional support animals (ESAs) has become more widely recognized. Unlike service dogs, which are specifically trained to perform tasks for individuals with physical disabilities, emotional support dogs do not need to undergo specialized training. Instead, these dogs offer their owners comfort, companionship, and stability. Their presence can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety, stress, depression, and other mental health challenges.
According to a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, pet ownership has been shown to reduce stress levels and lower blood pressure, particularly for individuals suffering from anxiety and depression. The unconditional love and companionship that emotional support dogs provide can be an effective, natural remedy for those struggling to cope with their emotions.
However, not every dog breed is equally suited to the role of emotional support. Some breeds are naturally calm and nurturing, making them ideal companions for individuals in need of emotional support, while others might be more energetic or independent.
In the next sections, we’ll explore seven of the best dog breeds for emotional support and explain why they excel in this role.
1. Labrador Retriever: The Gentle Giant
Why They’re Ideal for Emotional Support
The Labrador Retriever is widely regarded as one of the best dogs for emotional support, and for good reason. Known for their friendly nature, gentle temperament, and intelligence, Labs are often the first choice for therapy and support roles.
Labs are highly social dogs who thrive on human interaction, making them fantastic companions for individuals dealing with emotional distress. Their loving, non-judgmental attitude allows them to intuitively sense when their owner needs emotional support, whether it’s a comforting nudge or a soft paw on the lap.
Care Considerations
While Labs are generally easygoing, they do require regular physical exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks and playtime are crucial to keeping them happy and healthy. If you’re considering a Lab for emotional support, make sure you have the time and energy to engage with them regularly.
Expert Tip
Dr. Sarah Thomas, a canine behaviorist, says, “Labs are incredibly intuitive and emotionally intelligent. They tend to bond deeply with their owners, which makes them excellent emotional support dogs.”
2. Golden Retriever: The Ever-Friendly Companion
Why They’re Ideal for Emotional Support
Golden Retrievers are often referred to as the epitome of a “people dog,” making them an outstanding choice for emotional support. These dogs are known for their patient, calm, and affectionate nature, which can help soothe anxiety, depression, and loneliness.
Golden Retrievers are incredibly intuitive, and they form strong emotional bonds with their owners. This bond allows them to sense when their owner is feeling down or anxious, and they respond with gentle, comforting behavior.
Care Considerations
Golden Retrievers are also active dogs, so they require daily physical activity and mental engagement. Their long, beautiful coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
Expert Tip
According to Dr. Mark Robinson, a veterinarian, “Golden Retrievers have a natural sensitivity to human emotions. Their ability to sense distress and offer comfort is what makes them fantastic emotional support companions.”
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Affectionate Lapdog
Why They’re Ideal for Emotional Support
For individuals living in smaller spaces or those who prefer a more low-maintenance dog, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an excellent choice. Despite their small size, these dogs have big hearts. They are incredibly affectionate and are known to form deep emotional connections with their owners.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have a calm demeanor, making them ideal for people who struggle with anxiety or depression. They are also known for their sociability and adaptability, meaning they are generally comfortable around other people and animals.
Care Considerations
These dogs do not require much exercise, making them ideal for elderly individuals or those with physical limitations. However, regular grooming is needed to maintain their silky coats.
Expert Tip
Dr. Emily Taylor, a holistic pet care specialist, says, “The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s need for affection and human connection makes them perfect emotional support companions, particularly for those living alone.”
4. Pug: The Sweet, Laid-Back Companion
Why They’re Ideal for Emotional Support
Pugs are a small breed with a big personality, and they make excellent emotional support dogs due to their loving and easygoing nature. Their affectionate temperament and playful demeanor can help lift the spirits of individuals struggling with loneliness or anxiety.
Despite their small size, Pugs are incredibly loyal and will stick close to their owners, offering comfort in times of distress. Their comical and often goofy behavior can also be a great source of distraction and laughter, which can be incredibly healing for those dealing with stress or depression.
Care Considerations
Pugs are relatively low-maintenance, but they do require some attention to their health. They are prone to respiratory issues due to their flat faces (brachycephalic), so it’s important not to overexert them in hot or humid weather.
Expert Tip
Dr. Karen Green, a pet therapist, notes, “Pugs are known for their charm and emotional sensitivity. Their ability to bring joy with their antics and affectionate behavior makes them excellent emotional support dogs for individuals dealing with emotional challenges.”
5. Yorkshire Terrier: The Compact, Courageous Companion
Why They’re Ideal for Emotional Support
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a small dog with a big heart. Despite their tiny size, they are known for their confident and spunky personalities. Yorkies form deep emotional bonds with their owners and are often very protective, making them excellent emotional support dogs.
Their feisty nature and willingness to cuddle make them a great choice for individuals who need constant companionship and affection. Yorkies can be particularly helpful for people with anxiety, as their close physical presence offers a sense of security.
Care Considerations
Yorkies require regular grooming to maintain their coats, and while they don’t need excessive exercise, they do enjoy daily playtime and short walks.
Expert Tip
“Yorkies are especially suited for emotional support because they provide constant companionship without being overly demanding,” says Dr. Robin Miller, a veterinarian specializing in small dog breeds.
6. Basset Hound: The Laid-Back Emotional Support Dog
Why They’re Ideal for Emotional Support
Basset Hounds are a calm, affectionate breed that excels in emotional support roles. Their easygoing, non-aggressive nature makes them perfect for individuals who need a gentle and steady presence to help alleviate anxiety and depression.
These dogs are often very intuitive and will seek out their owners when they sense emotional distress. Their affectionate nature, combined with their low energy levels, makes them perfect companions for individuals who prefer a more relaxed dog.
Care Considerations
Basset Hounds do require regular ear cleaning due to their long ears, and they can be prone to obesity, so it’s important to manage their diet carefully.
Expert Tip
“Basset Hounds may not be as active as some other breeds, but their deep emotional connections and soothing demeanor make them exceptional emotional support dogs,” says Dr. Thomas Collins, a canine behavior expert.
7. Shih Tzu: The Affectionate Little Comforter
Why They’re Ideal for Emotional Support
The Shih Tzu is a small, affectionate dog that forms close bonds with its owner. Known for their calm and loving nature, Shih Tzus are perfect emotional support dogs for individuals living in smaller spaces or those who prefer a quieter, more relaxed dog.
These dogs are known to be very intuitive and will often provide comfort when their owner is feeling anxious or stressed. Their affectionate nature and willingness to cuddle make them perfect for people looking for emotional support.
Care Considerations
Shih Tzus require regular grooming to maintain their coats, and they don’t need much exercise. A few short walks and indoor playtime are usually sufficient.
Expert Tip
“Shih Tzus are excellent emotional support dogs because they are incredibly in-tune with their owner’s emotional state,” says Dr. Susan Clarke, a holistic dog trainer.
Top 5 Questions About Emotional Support Dogs
1. What makes a dog eligible to be an emotional support dog?
Answer:
Any dog can become an emotional support dog if it provides therapeutic benefits to its owner. Unlike service dogs, emotional support dogs do not need to be trained to perform specific tasks. They simply need to provide comfort and emotional stability through their presence and companionship. However, to be recognized as an official emotional support dog, the dog must have a recommendation from a licensed mental health professional.
2. How can I get an emotional support dog?
Answer:
To obtain an emotional support dog, you first need to consult with a licensed mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist, who can assess your mental health needs. If they determine that an emotional support dog would benefit you, they will provide you with an ESA letter. Once you have the letter, you can adopt a dog that suits your needs and begin your emotional support journey.
3. Are emotional support dogs allowed in apartments or other no-pet housing?
Answer:
Yes! Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) in the United States, individuals with emotional support dogs are allowed to have their dogs in housing that does not typically allow pets, including apartments. However, it is important to have a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional to verify the need for the emotional support dog.
4. Do emotional support dogs require special training?
Answer:
Unlike service dogs, emotional support dogs do not require specific task training. However, they should be well-behaved and trained in basic commands to ensure they are safe and comfortable in public spaces. A calm temperament is key, as emotional support dogs are expected to provide comfort without causing any disruptions.
5. Can any dog breed be an emotional support dog?
Answer:
Yes, any dog breed can potentially become an emotional support dog, as long as they provide the emotional benefits needed by their owner. However, certain breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, are often favored for their calm, affectionate, and empathetic natures, which make them ideal companions for people with emotional support needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right emotional support dog is a personal decision that requires consideration of the breed’s temperament, care needs, and compatibility with your emotional health. The seven breeds listed above are some of the best choices for emotional support, each offering unique characteristics that can help individuals navigate the challenges of mental health.
Before bringing any dog into your life, ensure that you have the time, resources, and emotional capacity to care for your new companion. Emotional support dogs offer life-changing benefits, but their care should always be a top priority. Whether you choose a Golden Retriever, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, or Pug, the right dog can bring comfort, joy, and a sense of stability during even the most challenging times.
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