Dogs are certainly remarkable, wouldn’t you say? In addition to being exceptional companion animals, they are also legendary for their ability to assist individuals afflicted with mental illness. Emotional support animals (ESA), whose popularity appears to be increasing daily, offer vital therapeutic assistance.
They assist in enhancing the well-being and standard of living of individuals afflicted with a variety of mental disorders. While any pet has the potential to serve as an ESA, canines are inherently more suitable as emotional support animals.
Not every dog breed is equally capable of serving as an emotional support animal. If you are contemplating the purchase of a new dog to serve as your ESA, there are ten dog breeds in the globe that are ideally suited for this role. Select the following emotional support dog varieties as your new companion:
What Is an Emotional Support Dog?
When you have a mental health or emotional challenge, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, chronic stress, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, an emotional support animal (ESA) can offer solace, companionship, and therapeutic advantages. ESAs are canines in most cases, but not all. An emotional support animal may only be obtained in the United States with a letter of medication from an authorized mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist, by federal law.
Emotional support canines, in contrast to service dogs, do not necessitate any particular training and can be of any breed (or combination of breeds) that the owner desires. However, certain dog breeds are particularly well-suited for the role of an emotional support animal if you are in the market for a new canine companion.
Best Emotional Support Dogs
Here are some best emotional support dogs
1. American Staffordshire Terrier
- Height: 17 to 19 Inches
- Weight: 40 to 70 Pounds
- Physical Attributes: Muscular Body, Colors Include Fawn, Black, Blue, and More
Pit bull-type canines have been demonized for years due to the regrettable actions of their owners and negative public relations. However, these pleasant, devoted canines are exceptionally well-suited to function as creatures that provide emotional support. When properly socialized and trained, certain dog varieties, including the American Staffordshire terrier, can get along with various individuals and situations.
2. Golden Retriever
- Height: 22 to 24 Inches
- Weight: 55 to 75 Pounds
- Physical Attributes: Light to Dark Golden Shades, Straight or Wavy Coat.
Golden retrievers have historically held a prominent position among dog breeds in the United States, serving as household companions and emotional support animals. Their obvious friendliness and tolerant demeanor make them an ideal match for individuals with health concerns. Additionally, they are exceptionally trainable.
3. Labrador Retriever
- Height: From 22 to 25 inches tall
- Weight: Between 55 and 80 pounds in weight
- Physical Attributes: Athletic Build, Short Coat, Yellow, Black, and Chocolate Coloration.
Labrador retrievers are probably on many lists of the finest service, therapy, and emotional support dogs. Labradors are amicable and sensitive, with an intense desire to please. Labs are ideal for individuals who require a companion while away from home, as they are typically at ease investigating the environment.
4. Corgi
- Height: From 10 to 12 inches tall
- Maximum Weight: 30 Pounds
- Physical Attributes: Long and low-set; Colors Including Fawn, Red, Sable, and Fawn with White Markings
Corgis are not merely the breed that the monarch of England favors. These affectionate canines excel at training and are intelligent and generally well-behaved around people of all ages. Although corgis are relatively active canines, they are unsuitable for all environments. They may be appropriate for owners who prefer to walk their canines alongside them, as this will assist in channeling the corgi’s energy.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
- Height: 7 to 8 Inches
- Weight: 7 Pounds
- Physical Attributes: Compact Body; Silky Coat; Colors Include Tan and Black, Blue and Tan, and More
Yorkies compensate for their diminutive stature with assurance and affection. Although they demand considerable attention, they reciprocate it tenfold. They are convenient for individuals who need an emotional support animal to accompany them while traveling. Moreover, they tend to be adaptable to change.
6. Irish Wolfhound
- Height: 30 Inches and Up
- Weight: 105 to 120 Pounds
- Physical Attributes: Tall, Long Body; Rough Coat; Colors Include Black, Blue, Cream, Gray, and More
Naturally, Irish wolfhounds serve as protectors. And their heightened sensitivity enables them to perceive the emotions of their human companions. However, it is important to consider that their lifespan is relatively brief, ranging from six to eight years. This may pose a challenge for individuals who significantly depend on their emotional support animal.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Height: 12 to 13 Inches
- Weight: 13 to 18 Pounds
- Physical Attributes: Medium-length, Silky Coat; Colors Include Black and Tan, Black and White, and More
A Cavalier King Charles spaniel resembles a plush animal come to life. With a generally pleasant disposition, these canines enjoy cuddling. This breed is frequently called the “comforter spaniel.” Typically, they enjoy cuddling with their favored humans just as much as accompanying them on a stroll.
8. Chihuahua
- Height: 5 to 8 Inches
- Weight: Up to 6 Pounds
- Physical Attributes: Alert Expression; Smooth or Long Coat; Colors Include Black, Tan, and More
Chihuahuas exhibit a wide range of temperaments. However, with early socialization and the development of affectionate personalities, chihuahuas can effectively provide emotional support. They, similar to Yorkies, are effortlessly transportable companions. They do not need much exercise and are content to occupy their owners with cuddles and playfulness.
9. German Shepherd
- Height: 22 to 26 Inches
- Weight: 50 to 90 Pounds
- Physical Attributes: Muscular Body; Medium-Length Coat; Colors Include Solid Black, Black and Tan, Black and Red, and More
Since more German shepherds prefer to work, they are frequently selected as working canines. In addition, their rationality and desire for approval render them formidable candidates for the role of emotional support animals. Most German shepherds enjoy human companionship and, given adequate training, can develop into delightful companions in public areas.
10. Collie
- Height: 22 to 26 Inches
- Weight: 50 to 75 Pounds
- Physical Attributes: Rough or Smooth Coat; Colors Include Sable and White, Blue Merle, and More
As herding canines, collies always ensure the happiness and safety of their flock—or family—. Collies are typically adept at discerning indications from their owners that something is amiss and act swiftly to offer solace. They require sufficient physical activity, so they are adept at motivating their owners to leave the home.
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