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Animals

The 17 Best Dog Breeds for Your Emotional Health

By Stacy Tornio

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Dogs have the incredible power to help us improve our health, live longer, and be happier overall. For years, scientists have linked pet ownership to good mental health. Dog ownership, in particular, has been shown to decrease cardiovascular disease and lead to a longer life. 

All dogs can provide a certain amount of calm and happiness, but if you’re looking to add a canine friend to your life for emotional support or improved mental health, some breeds definitely like to snuggle a bit more or will stay by your side more than others. 

This doesn’t mean purebred dogs and expensive breeders are the only way to go. There are so many great benefits to adopting a rescue dog, and a good adoption counselor can help you find a dog that’s a good fit for you. 

Remember the best dog is the one that YOU connect with most, so be open to different breeds. Here are 17  you might want to look out for — and with a little bit of training and time, you could have a pup that helps make you happier and healthier! 

  1. Golden Retriever

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    Golden Retriever  These sweet big guys are one of the most common therapy dogs for the vision and hearing impaired, and they make good pets for emotional health, too. Goldens are smart, loyal, and gentle. They are also easy to train and extremely reliable. 

  3. Lab

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    Labrador Retriever  Labs are great for first-time dog owners. They are everything you think about in owning a dog — playful, fun, friendly, and easy-going. The lab will always be up for a walk or adventure and will help motivate you to get moving.

  5. Border Collie

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    Border Collie Border Collies are high-energy dogs, so the more activity you can give a them, the better. They aren't a fit for everyone, but if you like to always be on the move, you’ll be best friends.

  6. Yorkshire Terrier

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    Yorkshire Terrier These little guys want lots of attention, but they will give lots of attention, too. In general, dogs in the terrier family are good for providing emotional support, but Yorkshire Terriers, in particular, have a lot of love and affection to give.

  7. Corgi

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    Welsh Corgi These pups will keep you on your toes. They tend to get into some mischief from time to time, but they are incredibly loyal dogs. Don’t let their size fool you, they are fierce and definitely hold their own.

  9. St Bernard

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    St. Bernard This gentle giant is a huge ball of fluff, making a great cuddle companion. St. Bernards are also known for being great with small kids, so if you’re looking for a family companion, it might be the perfect choice.

  10. Pug

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    Pug Pugs naturally have that happy, carefree look, and it’s certainly part of their personality as well. They can be somewhat stubborn from time to time, so remember to have patience through the training period. But they are lovable little charmers.

  11. German Shepherd

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    German Shepherd This might be the most loyal dog on the list. German shepherds take their jobs of watching over their person or family very seriously. They can be protective, but they are also a rock for emotional and mental support.

  13. Pitbull

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    American Pit Bull Terrier Don’t overlook the pit bull. (Yes, it’s part of the terrier family, which most people don’t realize.) This dog can get a bad rap, but they are such a people pleasers, the more love they can get, the better. If you’re looking to adopt and come across a pit mix, do not shy away, it just might be the perfect companion.

  14. Great Pyrenees

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    Great Pyrenees For those of you who like big dogs, this is another one. (They often reach 100+ pounds.) These are beautiful dogs that like to have a close watch over their family. They’ll love to always be by your side or have you close by.

  15. Great Dane

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    Great Dane These are happy-go-lucky dogs that will always be up for some cuddling. In fact, they might overdo it at times, and you’ll find yourself being pushed off the couch or bed (if that’s the kind of thing you allow). They also make for adorable puppies as they grow into their big bodies. 

  17. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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    Cavalier King Charles Spaniel This is a beautiful, regal dog that has quite a reputation to live up to. As sporting dogs, they like to be out and about, but they’re quite happy curled up in your lap as well.

  18. Boxer

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    Boxer These are great guard dogs who are extremely loyal to their owners. If you can find a rescue dog that is a boxer mix, definitely give it a second look. They just might be one of the best dogs you’ll ever have.

  19. Pomeranian

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    Pomeranian The little Pomeranian is fearless, often standing up to much bigger dogs on walks or in dog parks. Like other dogs, they excel best with a little training. They are happy dogs that love being by their owner's side most.

  21. Bulldog

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    Bulldog All bulldogs, including the popular English bulldog and French bulldog, are good for emotional and mental support. Neither are very loud or bark-y dogs, and both are very dedicated to their owners.

  22. Greyhound

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    Greyhound These regal dogs are one of the quietest out there — they’re very content with short walks and sleeping most of the day away. There are greyhound rescue organizations all over the country that can help you figure out if this is the right kind of dog for you. If so, you’ll have years with a loving companion.

  23. Cocker Spaniel

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    Cocker Spaniel These fluffy guys don’t like being left alone, which is good if you’re looking for a companion to stay by your side most of the time. They are playful, easy-going dogs that are also adorable with those big floppy ears. Remember the best dog is the one that YOU connect with most. Be open to different breeds, and especially adoption. With a little bit of training and time, you could have a pup that makes you happier and healthier, too! 

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