Looking for the best emotional support dog breeds who will always be there for you when you need them? Whether you're after a playful pup who will be more than happy to join you on your outdoor adventures or a quieter canine who'll be content to cuddle on the couch, you'll find some wonderful choices on this list.
When it comes to everyone's favorite emotional support animal breeds, dogs are often top of the list – and for good reason. Dogs provide us humans with many therapeutic benefits, helping to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, as well as assisting us to feel more comfortable in unfamiliar social settings.
While all dogs can offer support, some breeds are known to have traits that are particularly supportive when we're going through a hard time. These pups are often sensitive, emotionally intuitive, affectionate, and caring, and can help us to feel less alone as we journey through the ups and downs of life.
From panic attacks and PTSD to anxiety and depression, here are our top picks if you're after a dog who will offer you companionship and comfort...
Best dogs for emotional support
1. Labrador Retriever
Highly trainable, intelligent, and gentle, Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds – and for good reason! Labradors are well known for their friendly nature, and because they're such active dogs, they make excellent companions for those who love to venture into the great outdoors.
Eager to please and incredibly calm, their stable nature makes them a rock you can always depend on.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
One of the best small dog breeds, don't let the Yorkshire Terrier's tiny size fool you – they may be small but they're big on personality (and heart). Yorkies (as they're affectionately known) are spunky and entertaining companions who are brave, bold, and at times, rather bossy.
But don't let that put you off, this little dog will show you with affection and be quick to pick up on your emotional cues. Given their small size, they're also a great breed if you travel a lot and want to be able to easily take your fur friend with you.
3. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
One of the most agreeable of all the small dog breeds, the lively Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a happy, loyal, and affectionate pup who has a reputation for being very eager to please. Good-tempered, they are adventurous yet obedient and they are incredibly devoted to their owners.
While they typically get on famously with children, other dogs, and cats, it's worth bearing in mind that they were bred to be a herding dog and these instincts are strong, so you may find them trying to round up various family members from time to time!
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
As one of the planet's most loving dogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have come to be known as a “love sponge”. Endlessly sweet and gentle, these kind and placid dogs were originally bred for comfort and companionship and they truly excel at both of these things.
Always keen to please their owners, they're friendly and good-natured pups who get along well with children and other dogs. One of the best things about the Cavie is that they're super adaptable, so if you like living an active lifestyle, they'll be up for that, but if you'd rather just cuddle on the couch all day, they'll be equally happy to be a homebody.
5. Golden retriever
Loyal, friendly, and playful, the golden retriever remains one of the world's most beloved breeds. A medium-sized retrieving breed, the golden retriever is affectionate and deeply empathetic, which is why they make the best therapy dogs.
On top of that, they're highly intelligent and obedient, so you'll often find them working in search and rescue and other service dog roles where their unique combination of brains and hearts are put to good use.
Golden retrievers need lots of exercise and shouldn't be left alone for too long as they're one of the dog breeds most likely to have separation anxiety.
6. Chihuahua
A tiny pup with a big personality, Chihuahuas are one of the best small dog breeds when it comes to providing their humans with emotional support. Sassy and spunky, this Mexican breed stands no taller than eight inches and weighs no more than six pounds. Intelligent, loyal, affectionate, and playful they have a larger-than-life spirit and love nothing more than being close to their chosen people.
Small enough to take on an airplane and form a close bond with their owner, they need early socialization as they tend to be mistrustful of strangers. But the good news is that they don't need lots of exercise, which will suit introverts and those who prefer life inside.
7. Irish Wolfhound
Yes, they are huge and imposing but Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants. Capable of living in colder climates, they're nicknamed the gentle giant because they're patient and kind as well as being highly attuned to the feelings and emotions of those they love.
Calm and dignified, the Irish Wolfhound craves affection but don't worry – they'll give it back to you in equal measure, if not more! The only downside to this breed is its lifespan. At over 30 inches tall and weighing up to 120 pounds, their bodies age quicker than small breeds and they tend to live for no more than eight years.
8. Border Collie
Border Collies are herding dogs and they're also very active, so if you're looking for an emotional support dog that will give you plenty of exercise, then you're on very sound ground with this breed. They're also one of the smartest dog breeds with a great ability to read people.
However, border collies are very active dogs who need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. If you plan to welcome one of these loyal and eager-to-please pups into your home, you'll want to have plenty of brain games for dogs on hand and puzzle toys will go down a treat, too!
9. Poodle
Aside from being clever and obedient, poodles are people pleasers and they'll focus their attention on you regardless of any changing situations. It's this adaptability combined with their dependable nature that makes poodles such great emotional support.
Coming in four different sizes – toy, miniature, medium, and standard, poodles are dignified, affectionate, and comical enough to make you laugh and smile each day. Sure, they're high-maintenance breeds, requiring regular grooming and trimming, but, their lifespan of up to 15 years means they'll hopefully be sticking around for a good while.
10. German Shepherd
For anyone looking to feel protected, German Shepherds fit the bill perfectly. Give them good, early training and you'll find these highly intelligent and obedient dogs are quick to learn. Their stamina and bags of energy will also encourage you out of the house, safely guarding you as you enjoy your walks.
Great with families and possessing a calm temperament, they'll be sensitive to your emotional needs and become very firm friends. Just be mindful that German Shepherds are active dogs who love having a job to do, so if there are days when you're not able to take them on a long walk, it's worth having some dog puzzle toys on hand to give their brains a good workout.
11. Pug
Pugs are social dogs who love nothing more than being around people, making them an excellent choice to be an emotional support dog. They're ideal for anyone suffering from anxiety or depression thanks to their even temperament and cheerful disposition.
They're often considered the clowns of the canine world as they love acting goofy and making their humans laugh, so if you're looking for a companion of great charm with a stable and loving temperament, the pug could well be the dog for you.
12. American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a stocky and broad dog with a broad skull and powerful jaw. AmStaffs (as they are often affectionately referred to) are very devoted to their humans and make incredibly cuddly companions.
A naturally athletic breed who needs a lot of exercise, they're particularly fond of chase and tug-of-war, although any outdoor activity that lets them burn off energy will be greatly appreciated. Because AmStaffs are very protective of their people, early socialization is key to ensuring they know how to behave around strangers.
13. Shih tzu
The shih tzu is a small, low-energy dog breed whose name means 'little lion' – and while you certainly have nothing to be scared of with this little pup, they're definitely known for being a tad feisty at times!
Originating in China and Tibet, the shih tzu has a big heart. They thrive on human companionship and form very deep bonds with their owners, being both attentive and snuggly.
True lapdogs, the shih tzu is very adaptable and will feel at home in almost all living situations and environments.
14. Maltese
Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, the Maltese is a small dog weighing less than seven pounds who likes to stick close to their owner and will be happy to be carried with you wherever you go.
Charming and adaptable, they're low-shedding so they're a great choice for allergy sufferers or those who don't want to spend their days picking up lots of fur off their floors!
The Maltese thrives on attention and they don't like being left alone for long periods of time as this causes them to become anxious. However, when with their people, they are very easygoing and calm, and because they're so adaptable, they'll be content in any environment, from a sprawling house in the country to a tiny apartment in the city.
15. Beagle
The beagle is one of those dogs you just can't help but fall in love with. Perhaps it's their endlessly cheerful, happy-go-lucky nature or their tireless pursuit of an intriguing scent. Whatever the reason, there's something incredibly lovable about these merry pups.
Their big brown eyes and wagging tail coupled with their devoted attention and unwavering support make beagles a wonderful choice if you're after an emotional support dog.
However, just be mindful that they need a lot of activities to keep their brains and bodies active as well as tons of supervision when you're out and about as they have a knack for letting their nose and their love of a good scent lead them into trouble!
16. French Bulldog
With their large bat-like ears and lovable personality, French Bulldogs are small dogs with big personalities. Quirky, playful, and full of energy, they have a fun-loving nature and rarely bark, making them a dog breed ideal for apartment living.
They're affectionate and docile dogs who are highly adaptable and because they're so calm and good with people their presence can have a very soothing effect.
17. Bichon frise
The bichon frise (pronounced bee-shawn free-say) is a charming little dog developed in the Mediterranean. Wonderful at providing comfort and companionship, this breed forms deep and lasting bonds with its owners and makes for a happy and enthusiastic friend to have in the home.
This is a dog that needs a lot of attention and affection as they don't like being left home alone, but thankfully, they return all of this love by the bucket load and are endlessly cheerful and forever devoted.
The bichon frise will thrive indoors and while they do require an hour of activity each day, this can be split between a walk outdoors and indoor games and playtime.
18. Pomeranian
A small companion spitz breed, the plucky Pomeranian can make a wonderful emotional support pup thanks to their loyal and loving nature. While they look like a big ball of fluff, underneath that fabulous hairdo beats an intuitive heart that's very in touch with how people are feeling.
Playful and fun, they make joyful friends for people of all ages and stages, however, just be warned, they are known for being a vocal dog breed – something to keep in mind if you're a fan of the quiet life!
19. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker spaniels have an endlessly friendly nature and are devoted companions who are always keen to participate in all aspects of day-to-day family life, the enthusiastic cocker spaniel is gentle and easygoing.
Deeply loving and caring, the wellbeing of their owners is their top priority and they're never shy in showing their affection.
Empathetic, intelligent, and highly trainable, the cocker spaniel is renowned for their calm demeanor and adaptable nature. If you're looking for a friend who will go out of their way to cheer you up and comfort you, the cocker spaniel is an absolute winner.
20. Great Pyrenees
When it comes to longhaired dog breeds that will catch your eye, the Great Pyrenees will definitely turn your head for all the right reasons. Not only are they beautiful on the outside, but these majestic dogs are also just as stunning on the inside.
Known for being calm and placid, they are serious, well-mannered dogs with a deep devotion to their family.
They were bred to watch over flocks and their protective instincts remain strong, particularly when it comes to those they love. The Great Pyrenees have a mellow, patient, composed, and affectionate nature, which is why they're so often found in therapy roles.
21. Great Dane
One of the largest dog breeds, the Great Dane may have an imposing stature but they are true gentle giants at heart. Weighing up to 175 pounds and measuring 28-32 inches, they'll certainly take up a lot of space in your home, but as long as you don't mind that, the Great Dane will quickly prove themselves to be a quiet, friendly, and steadfast companion.
While they don't have the rambunctious energy of many other breeds, they're still playful and require two long walks a day to provide them with adequate exercise. Sweet and intelligent, they're eager to please and easy to train.
22. Havanese
A spirited little dog with a spring in their step, the Havanese is a long-haired breed that hails from Cuba. Their beautiful shiny coat manages to be both thick and light at the same time with a glorious silkiness to it that's a dream to stroke.
Bear in mind that their coat is naturally long, so it does require a lot of grooming, but you can make life easier by having it cut into a much shorter style.
Exceptionally affectionate, the Havanese is a very bright dog who bonds deeply with their humans and doesn't like being left alone.
23. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog has a laid-back demeanor and is always up for a hug. Kind, gentle, and good-natured, they are caring dogs who are very loyal to their owners.
Powerful pups built for hard work, these dogs need a great deal of physical exercise and mental stimulation.
The Bernese Mountain Dog loves company and prefers to have their family with them at all times, so if you do need to leave them alone, make sure you leave them with lots of toys to keep them entertained.
24. Lhasa Apso
A hardy little dog with a big heart, the Lhasa Apso always has plenty of love and affection to go around. Originally bred to be companions to the monks of Tibet, they're now a popular family pet, which is no surprise given how loyal and playful they are.
Smart and sensitive, they stick closely to their humans and while they may be small they're full of spunk.
Lhasa Apsos are naturally very protective of their people and highly suspicious of strangers, so they do have a tendency to bark and lot and need early socialization and training to make sure their natural wariness doesn't translate into problems later on in adulthood.
25. English Bulldog
Loyal and lovable, English Bulldogs are known for their docile nature and wrinkled appearance. Low-slung and muscular, they're incredibly sweet and easygoing, and they have a reputation for being total couch potatoes, so make sure to encourage them to exercise to prevent weight gain.
English Bulldogs have a tendency to be stubborn and will often weigh up what you're asking them to do to ensure there's something in it for them – typically a long-lasting dog chew (or two!). However, wilful personality aside, bulldogs are dependable, and predictable and make outstanding companions
26. Boxer
The boxer is a medium to large shorthaired breed with an upbeat and playful nature. Loyal and loving, boxers don't always realize how big they are and will often try to be a lap dog! Because of their unwavering devotion to their humans and their caring hearts, boxers make exceptional emotional support dogs and they're brilliant with people of all ages.
Perhaps one of the best things about this breed is their goofy side – they're true comedians with a great sense of humor who love to make their owners laugh. It's worth noting that boxers are very sensitive dogs, so they don't respond well to harsh words but they thrive on praise and encouragement.
27. Saint Bernard
There are so many reasons to love Saint Bernards. For starters, this large working dog has the most gentle of hearts and an incredibly steady and calm temperament. Weighing up to 180 pounds, there's a lot of them to love and cuddle, and they won't mind either of those things one bit.
A friend to all, these people-oriented pups make great family companions as they're very patient with children and while energetic and playful as puppies, they do tend to settle down as they get older. Because Saint Bernards are so big and strong, you'll need to train and socialize them from a young age so that they know how to behave in the right way.
28. Airedale Terrier
When it comes to terrier breeds you might not know about, the Airedale Terrier is a dog that may make the list. The largest of all the terriers, the Airedale has a dense, wiry coat and a rather adorable jaunty beard.
They're active and inquisitive dogs who thrive on plenty of play and attention and because they learn new things at record speeds, they're an absolute dream to train.
The Airedale Terrier is a jolly and loyal dog who lives to make their owners smile with a constant stream of comical antics, and while they aren't natural born cuddle bugs, they'll show you plenty of affection in their own way.
29. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are endlessly curious canines with a docile and friendly nature. Natural-born swimmers thanks to their webbed paws, they originated in Canada where they worked alongside fishermen while also taking up roles as water rescue dogs.
Their caring hearts make them true naturals when it comes to providing emotional support and while they're certainly large, they are incredibly gentle. Sweet, patient, and calm, they're great around children and while they don't need an excessive amount of exercise, you'll still need to take them on a daily walk to prevent weight gain.
30. Collie
Collies are known for being extremely responsive to the needs of their owners, so it's no surprise that they make wonderful support dogs. They're very sensitive to people's needs and emotions, and their utter devotion coupled with their protective tendencies will leave you feeling like you have a true friend for life.
Collies are super smart and a high-energy breed so they need regular mental and physical stimulation to ensure they thrive. Affectionate dogs who bond deeply with their human family, thrive on being with those they love and will enjoy being couch potatoes at the end of the day when they've burned off some energy.
31. Australian Shepherd
One of the best farm dogs, the Australian Shepherd is a herding dog at heart so they're at their happiest when they're running about and spending time with their owners.
They are loved for their outstanding work ethic coupled with their sensitive hearts, have a beautiful temperament and because they're so intelligent, they pick up new things quickly. Best for those who have an active lifestyle, the energetic Australian Shepherd will thrive when they receive constant activity and attention.
32. Whippet
The whippet is a swift and graceful breed known for their quiet, caring, and thoughtful temperament. Highly affectionate and emotionally intuitive, they're happy and friendly while still being calm and chilled.
While they can reach speeds of 35 miles per hour (making them one of the fastest dog breeds), these outstanding athletes were built for speed, not endurance, so they don't need a ton of exercise each day – 30 minutes is perfect for keeping them happy and healthy.
Whippets are sensitive dogs who don't do well in loud or chaotic homes, so they're best suited to peaceful environments where they can spend their time cuddling with their owners.
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