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The 20 Best Small Dogs For Kids And Families When You've Got Your Hands Full
If you're looking for a canine companion, there are tons of reasons a small dog breed is the way to go. Believe it or not, tiny apartments, limited budgets and busy schedules all factor into the ideal dog size for you. But, wait—you got kids? A small dog breed might be your best bet. There are many pint-sized pups with big personalities, like Pomeranians and Bichon Frises, who fit seamlessly into family life. Low-energy breeds like the Bolognese or the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are great for families with kids because these dogs don't require as much exercise outdoors (you've already got your hands full, no?). Of course, if burning energy is what your older children need, we recommend a Border Terrier.
Meet the Experts What Makes a Small Dog Breed Good for Kids?Annie-Mae Levy, a professional dog trainer for the puppy and dog training app, Woofz, says small breeds should be very comfortable with hands-on family members if you have kids. Kiddos like to touch and grab and pet and pull. A dog who can't handle all that handling should not be near touchy-feely children. Levy also recommends small breeds that are lower in energy. This may seem strange, since kids' batteries seem to recharge constantly, but she says high-energy dogs who need lots of outdoor exercise daily can get overlooked in busy families with kids.
Sometimes, it comes down to the individual dog and kid (or kids). Ages, personalities, preferences and needs should all be considered before adopting a particular dog. "More nervy breeds, such as Chihuahuas, can do well with older children," Levy says, but adds that those pups still aren't keen on excessive noise and handling.
What Are the Best Small Dog Breeds for Kids?Levy's four big recs are Shih Tzus, Bichon Frises, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Pugs. These are all featured on our list, along with many other terrific family pups with very kid-friendly dispositions. We looked at trainability, whether the breed typically enjoys being around people and energy levels.
1. Bichon FrisePai-Shih Lee/Getty Images
Group: non-sporting
Height: 9.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 12-18 pounds
Personality: cheerful, adaptable
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: curly double coat, low shedding, white, requires frequent grooming
Lifespan: 14-15 years
Trainability: easy to train
These dogs pack a ton of personality and fervor into a small package. Bichon frises are charmers and social butterflies who are eager to please and ready to play. This makes them excellent companions for kids and large families. Plus, bichons are hypoallergenic! Though they do require extra attention when it comes to grooming.
2. BolognesePortogas-D-Ace/Getty Images
Group: miscellaneous/AKC Foundation Stock Service
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 6-10 pounds
Personality: affectionate, calm
Energy Level: low
Coat and Color: wavy, long, soft, white, low shedding
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Trainability: easy to train
Similar in style to the Bichon frise, the Bolognese is a companion pup who won't freak out when kids come running in fired up after school; they can also embrace the calm moments after dinner when everyone sits down to finish homework. Definitely more on the chill side, though, so if your kids have loud wild sides or are super young, these dogs might feel overwhelmed.
3. MalteseUTENZILIJE/GETTY IMAGES
Group: toy
Height: 7-9 inches
Weight: 6-7 pounds
Personality: sweet, elegant
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: long, silky, white, requires frequent grooming
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Trainability: can be difficult to train
Here is a dog definitely unafraid of yapping at intruders. Though they are teeny tiny, Maltese adapt well to many environments and enjoy being loved on (they were bred as companion dogs, so laps are their favorite spots). Smart and athletic, they're also stubborn, which makes training a challenge. Use rewards and incorporate tricks—and your kids—into the routine.
4. Australian TerrierCapturelight/Getty Imagse
Group: terrier
Height: 10-11 inches
Weight: 15-20 pounds
Personality: affectionate, lively
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: medium length, rough double coat, low shedding, tan and black
Lifespan: 11-15 years
Trainability: trains best with firm consistency
Training can be fun with an Australian terrier, who is smart and ready to get moving! They've got tons of energy and bore easily though, so only houses full of kids eager to play with the pup and participate in training will work. Aussie terriers also have strong prey drives and can exhibit territorial behavior around other dogs, so if you're into a one-dog household, this pup is for you.
5. Border TerrierManuela Schewe-Behnisch / EyeEm/Getty Images
Group: terrier
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 11-16 pounds
Personality: friendly, adventurous
Energy Level: moderate to high
Coat and Color: hypoallergenic, short, wiry, tan and black
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Trainability: can be difficult to train
Border terriers were bred in the English and Scottish countryside, so they've got an instinct for outdoorsy playtime. However, they know when it's time to come home for dinner (aka they are affectionate and even-tempered). Affection is never in short supply with these pups. The American Kennel Club calls them "fine childhood playmates."
6. Japanese SpitzHIROMI HAYASHI/EYEEM/GETTY IMAGES
Group: Foundation Stock Service
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 10-25 pounds
Personality: playful, intelligent
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: fluffy, double, white
Lifespan: 10-14 years
Trainability: easy to train
Honestly, this Japanese dog breed checks all the boxes necessary for a kid-friendly dog. They are playful, train well because they are so smart and have enough energy to participate in the fun without bowling everyone over. Japanese Spitzes have bright white coats that are fairly low maintenance, except when they shed seasonally when you'll want to brush a few times a week.
7. Biewer TerrierVivienstock/Getty Images
Group: toy
Height: 7-11 inches
Weight: 4-8 pounds
Personality: smart, loving
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: long, silky, black, tan, white, sometimes blue, frequent grooming required
Lifespan: 16 years
Trainability: easy to train
Looking for a small dog that takes direction well, doesn't excite easily and wants nothing more than to be your BFF? Check out the Biewer terrier. They look like little Yorkies but are much less stubborn and much more cheerful. Biewer terriers don't tire quickly, either, which is good news for kids looking to frolic. Trips to the groomer's will be more frequent whether you decide to let their coats grow long or trim regularly.
8. Cavalier King Charles SpanielTara Gregg / EyeEm/Getty Images
Group: toy
Height: 12-13 inches
Weight: 13-18 pounds
Personality: affectionate, friendly
Energy Level: low to moderate
Coat and Color: wavy, silky, medium to long
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Trainability: easy to train
For a more chill small dog, head toward the nearest Cavalier King Charles spaniel. These pups adapt to your family's lifestyle (whether you host neighborhood parties or prefer quiet board game nights) and could be the biggest sweethearts on our list. They make great therapy dogs, too, which says it all: comfort and love!
9. Cocker SpanielYulia Reznikov/Getty Images
Group: sporting
Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 20-30 pounds
Personality: gentle, intelligent
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: long, double, silky, variety of colors
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Trainability: easy to train
Look deep into the dark, affectionate eyes of a cocker spaniel and you'll understand immediately why they're often labeled "merry" and "gentle." These dogs enjoy hanging out with kiddos as much as they like taking long walks with adults. They're sensitive, which means although they respond well to commands, they don't take kindly to angry tones or discipline—so don't be too harsh if they screw up.
10. German SpitzGlobalP/Getty Images
Group: miscellaneous/AKC Foundation Stock Service
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 24-26 pounds
Personality: lively, adaptable
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: double, moderate shedding, variety of colors
Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years
Trainability: relatively easy to train
A fox-like resemblance makes this dog super cute—but don't worry, they aren't as wild or wily. The German spitz is incredibly obedient and ready to have a fun time. While they love their people, strangers who aren't part of a German spitz's inner circle will likely get a taste of their wary bark.
11. Havanesebuchsammy/Getty Images
Group: toy
Height: 8.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 7-13 pounds
Personality: smart, social
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: long, double, silky, moderate shedding, variety of colors
Lifespan: 14-16 years
Trainability: easy to trainThere's something almost goofy about a Havanese, like they're trying to make us laugh with their mischievous eyes and ability to learn any number of tricks. They adapt well to various environments but will be truly hurt if you just let them out for their exercise instead of joining them in the fun.
12. Miniature SchnauzerSamantha Nicol Art Photography/Getty Images
Group: terrier
Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 11-20 pounds
Personality: obedient, brave
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: medium, double, wiry, moderate shedding, black and silver
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Trainability: easy to train
Outgoing. Obedient. Adorable! Miniature schnauzers make excellent family dogs because of their ability to learn commands quickly and engage in fun activities, all while keeping an eye on the ones they love most (hint: that's you!). They definitely think they are watchdogs and can become protective (which is sweet) or upset with other dogs for getting too close to you (which is not sweet). Socialize them early to teach them good manners.
13. Pembroke Welsh CorgiPurple Collar Pet Photography/Getty Images
Group: herding
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 28-30 pounds
Personality: playful, affectionate
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color:
Lifespan: 12-13 years
Trainability: relatively easy to train
If their smiling faces are any indication, Pembroke Welsh corgis are always in a happy headspace. A solid combination of loyalty and alertness makes them excellent watchdogs. Content to give affection or get it, a Corgi might just feel like another kid instead of a dog. Like many herding breeds, they are independent spirits, so be firm and engaging while training.
14. ChihuahuaLuciane Daux / EyeEm/Getty Images
Group: toy
Height: 5-8 inches
Weight: < 6 pounds
Personality: charming, intelligent
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: short or medium, smooth, variety of colors, low shedding
Lifespan: 14-16 years
Trainability: can be difficult to train
Perhaps it's the Chihuahua that gives small dogs everywhere that feisty reputation. They aren't big on roughhousing, but they are big on cuddling and doting on their favorite human. Train Chihuahuas early—and well—to ensure they follow household rules. After that, they'll fit right in (and expect to join you whenever you leave the house, even if you're just dropping the kids off at soccer practice).
15. PugÇigdem Kodas / EyeEm/Getty Images
Group: toy
Height: 10-13 inches
Weight: 14-18 pounds
Personality: adaptable, charming
Energy Level: low to moderate
Coat and Color: short, smooth, moderate to high shedding, black and fawn
Lifespan: 13-15 years
Trainability: relatively easy to trainWith their thick, muscular bodies and expressive faces, pugs make some of the funniest companions in the dog world. They love their owners with everything they've got and get along well with all ages in most environments (high heat can be dangerous to pugs). Just make sure your pug doesn't overeat; they're known for easily packing on pounds.
16. PomeranianMILDA ULPYT/GETTY IMAGE
Group: toy
Height: 6-7 inches
Weight: 3-7 pounds
Personality: lively, adaptable
Energy Level: moderate to high
Coat and Color: long, double, low to moderate shedding, variety of colors
Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
Trainability: trains best when young
Pomeranians might be happiness in dog form. These are lively dogs who have big personalities. They enjoy children as long as the children remember these are tiny dogs (no more than seven pounds!) and rough-housing isn't a good idea. While Poms need exercise like any other dog, a few daily walks should usually do the trick (plus some gentle playtime, of course).
17. BeagleTara Reifenheiser/Getty Images
Group: hound
Height: 10-15 inches
Weight: 15-30 pounds
Personality: friendly, doting
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: smooth; short; many color varieties, typically black, white & tan
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Trainability: relatively easy to train
Calm, loyal and only slightly needy, beagles feel right at home with a family of humans ready for mutual doting. In fact, if left alone too long, they may worry and get destructive. Plus, they have perhaps the most quintessential puppy dog eyes of any breed—how can you say no to that face? As a member of the hound group, beagles do tend to follow their noses and allow their prey drive to kick in if they see a squirrel. Maybe wait until kids are older and stronger before letting them hold a leash attached to a beagle.
18. French BulldogChanty Loch / EyeEm/Getty Images
Group: non-sporting
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: 22-28 pounds
Personality: affectionate, even-tempered
Energy Level: low
Coat and Color: short, smooth, moderate shedding, variety of colors
Lifespan: 10-12 years
Trainability: may be difficult to train
Right now, French bulldogs are the most popular dogs in the United States. It's easy to see why: they are good-natured, thick little bundles of joy. Frenchies don't bark often and are always down to meet someone (or some dog) new. Training should definitely happen earlier, otherwise they can get stubborn (but still lovable).
19. Shih TzuVIOLETASTOIMENOVA/GETTY IMAGES
Group: toy
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 9-16 pounds
Personality: charming, adaptable
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: long, double, low shedding, variety of colors
Lifespan: 10-18 years
Trainability: can be difficult to train
The Shih Tzu is one of the breeds Levy recommends for kids, in part because they are adaptable and in part because they adore people of all ages. They also thrive on simple playtime at home with a few walks each day - nothing intense. The one drawback is their aversion to training. Shih Tzus like to have their way and can charm you into giving them what they want, instead of following directions.
20. Coton de TulearGRACE CARY/GETTY IMAGES
Group: non-sporting
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 8-15 pounds
Personality: charming, social
Energy Level: moderate
Coat and Color: long, double, wavy, white
Lifespan: 15-19 years
Trainability: easy to train
The bond between Coton de Tulears and their people is strong. These companion pups want to be around their people all the time! Jovial and obedient, they enjoy meeting new friends and fun challenges. Training and play should keep their brains sharp, so don't be afraid to mix it up or teach them tricks.
What Small Dog Breeds Are Not Good for Kids?Small dog breeds that are territorial, high-energy, nervous or all of the above are not ideal for households with kiddos. Levy says working-type breeds with super high energy levels should be avoided. "The average family will not have enough time to dedicate to their training and exercise needs," she says. While most working breeds are enormous dogs, smaller breeds like the German Pinscher or the Miniature American Shepherd definitely fall into this category.
It may also be wise to avoid dogs who can be territorial or possessive. "Dogs bred to enjoy possession…can be prone to resource guarding, which can turn into a nightmare around children's toys," Levy says, adding spaniels can exhibit some possessive qualities.
Finally, breeds that are super sensitive or more nervous may find life difficult in busy, noisy households.
Why Do Small Dogs Have a Bad Reputation?Small dogs sometimes get a reputation for being overly aggressive. While this is a pretty grand generalization, one University of Sydney study did find a correlation between size and behavior, showing shorter dogs tended to be more combative with their guardians and destructive in their homes. The study's authors added this could have a lot to do with environmental factors, not just natural temperament.
It's possible people tend to allow nastier behavior from tiny canines than they do from bigger ones, since a Chihuahua feels like less of an immediate threat than say, a German shepherd. A poorly trained Great Dane makes us feel more vulnerable than a poorly trained Yorkie, so we focus our energy on really solidifying commands with the Great Dane and let the Yorkie have his way. A vicious cycle.
Another study from the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna supports this self-fulfilling prophecy: Pet parents assume small dogs are yappier and more demanding, so people give in more easily and train less consistently than they do with large dogs. On top of that, small dogs tend to respond to punishments more sensitively than big dogs, which makes chastisement a more delicate process with tiny canines.
How to Train Small Dogs to Be Around KidsIf you've got kiddos and your heart set on a small breed, Zoom Room Dog Training's Head Trainer Courtney Briggs tells PureWow that strong socialization is the key to instilling good behavior in any pup. Nicole Ellis, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Pet Lifestyle Expert with Rover, says her top training tip is rewarding the behavior you want your dog to repeat. Also known as positive reinforcement training, this is considered the best route for small breeds who are often sensitive souls.
Another tactic is to observe your dog's body language and behavior if and when she gets upset. Knowing what to look for can prevent nipping or jumping incidents between dogs and kids. Even if your dog is a good dog (who's a good dog?!), Levy says you should avoid leaving her unsupervised around little children. Dogs who are startled unexpectedly (by a rough four-year-old trying to grab fur, for instance) may react instinctively with teeth.
On that note, take time to teach kids the best way to interact with your small dog. Gentle petting, firm commands and ample space are good places to start. Again, it depends on the dog, the kid and the environment.
27 Low-Maintenance Dog Breeds
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The Best Emotional Support Dogs For People With Anxiety, According To Experts
A little bit of anxiety is good. It helps us stay alert and survive potentially life-threatening situations. A lotta bit of anxiety? Not so much. If you're looking for a healthy way to manage general anxiety, heightened anxiety disorders or emotional distress, Anxiety.Org suggests (drum roll, please) pets! Yes, emotional support animals could be the difference between controlling anxious feelings and letting them take over. Humans have relied on dogs in particular as therapy and companion animals for centuries. Dr. Gabre Denton, a veterinarian and trainer with TeachMe.To, says the best dogs for people with anxiety are "calm, affectionate and emotionally intuitive." Some breeds, like Labrador retrievers, have made a name for themselves as intelligent, sweet emotional support dogs. Others, like Chihuahuas and Cockapoos, are just really good at keeping us company when times get tough. Whatever shape your anxiety takes, there's a dog breed out there for you.
Meet the Expert: What Are the Best Dog Breeds for People with Anxiety?Breeds that make excellent emotional support dogs include Golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Pugs, and Basset Hounds. These are just a few Dr. Denton mentioned that connect well with humans and show lots of love. "Greyhounds and Shih Tzus are also good choices, as they're usually content in relaxed environments," Dr. Denton adds.
1. ChihuahuaJan Rozehnal/Getty Images
Weight: 2.5 to 4.5 pounds
Personality: charming, independent
Shedding Factor: moderate
Life Expectancy: 12 to 20 years
At six pounds max, Chihuahuas are as low maintenance as dogs get, requiring little exercise beyond shopping for sweaters. Small enough to snuggle in bed and sympathetic enough to nurse Elle Woods through heartbreak, they will follow you from room to room looking for attention. An ideal distraction from your inner monologue.
2. Pembroke Welsh CorgiGetty Images
Personality: Adaptable, Sweet
Shedding Factor: Moderate to High
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
Obedient and loyal "without being needy" (according to the American Kennel Club)—is it any wonder Queen Elizabeth can't get enough? Quick to bond with humans, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are often tapped as companion dogs for nursing home residents and people with disabilities. They'll adore sitting at your feet while you sip a comforting cup of tea. Right, Liz?
3. French Bulldogfotokostic/Getty Images
Personality: playful, alert
Shedding Factor: moderate
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
This squishy-faced lapdog deserves its newfound popularity. Frenchies are flexible, even-tempered and all about snuggling away a bad day. Training can be tricky because these sweeties are stubborn, but they make great roomies for homebodies. One word of warning: French Bulldogs are predisposed to many health ailments. If vet bills and doggy medicine give you anxiety, we advise looking at a different breed.
4. Cocker SpanielIurii/Getty Images
Personality: Gentle, intelligent
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Sweet and extremely child-friendly, Prince William and Kate Middleton's preferred breed is known to do well with kiddos, per the American Kennel Club. Growing up next door to a Cocker Spaniel named Stella, I can confirm these gentle dogs are playful, as long as you're nice to them and remember their sensitive nature. Plus, their fluff factor is off the charts. Just bury your nose—and your worries—in their long, silky fur.
5. DachshundDevidDO/Getty Images
Personality: stubborn, sensitive
Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years
Playful and affectionate, wiener dogs are also innately hilarious. You'll be so amused by their everyday ambles around town, fear won't have room to rear its head. (Hey, there's even a museum dedicated to them in Germany.) They're smart, but sensitive, so be nice with training tactics.
6. Golden RetrieverMike Ko/EyeEm/Getty Images
Personality: Friendly, Devoted
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
There are many reasons why Goldens (and their various doodle hybrids) are some of the most popular therapy, guide and rescue dogs, alongside Labradors. They usually ace the Canine Good Citizen test—the gold standard for certifying emotional support animals—when they've been well-trained and socialized. Highly intelligent, friendly and easily trained, their always-happy temperaments can shift from playful to placid with ease.
7. Labrador Retrieversvetikd/Getty Images
Personality: Outgoing, Fun-loving
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
See above (and know that Labs are just as keen on learning commands and pleasing humans as Goldens are). My family adopted a black Lab named Oliver when I was in second grade. I can attest to the fact that these dogs love kids and have tons of energy. Yes, they learn commands well and are obedient, but their need for exercise is no joke. My parents now have a red Lab named Frannie who joins them on road trips and hates being left out. She's the ultimate companion dog.
8. Yorkshire Terrier (yorkie)yevgenromanenko/Getty Images
Personality: feisty, doting
Activity Level: energetic
Life Expectancy: 11 to 15 years
According to National Service Animals Memorial, a Yorkie named Smoky is the first recorded therapy dog. During World War II, Smoky lifted the spirits of injured and active soldiers by providing comfort and entertainment. With a pedigree like that, a tendency to establish tight bonds with their owners and a willingness to travel anywhere by shoulder bag, this little breed has a whole lot to offer.
9. GreyhoundZbynek Pospisil/Getty Images
Personality: Independent, Sweet
Activity Level: Moderate to High
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
Despite being able to sprint up to 35 miles per hour, these gentle giants—many of them retirees rescued from racetracks—prefer to lie around. Incredibly sweet and docile (they rarely bark), with smooth soft coats, they make ideal roommates. Bonus? They "hug" by leaning their often-hundred-pound bodies against their human's legs.
10. Saint BernardJustin Pumfrey/Getty Images
Personality: Charming, Watchful
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Loving, eager to please and tolerant of even the wildest domestic animals (small kids), it's no wonder J.M. Barrie said a Saint Bernard inspired the Darling children's nanny in Peter Pan (yes, even though Nana was a Newfoundland). These massive teddy bears can reach 180 pounds but only require moderate exercise. With their deep soulful eyes and patient demeanors, they're like ashwagandha in dog form.
11. Cavalier King Charles SpanielTomas Rodriguez/Getty Images
Personality: Affectionate, Friendly
Activity Level: Low to Moderate
Shedding Factor: Low to Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Known for their adaptability to their owners' routines, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels will happily bend to meet you where you are on any given day. Soft as silk and eager to snuggle, Cavs are soothing creatures to have around. Plus, their low prey drive makes them ideal walking buddies.
12. PugYuttana Jaowattana/EyeEm/Getty Images
Personality: adaptable, charming
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
These tiny—yet sturdy—dogs were bred as companions dogs for emperors in ancient China. Later on, they were the favorites of Dutch and British monarchs. Known for their goofy personalities, Pugs can go with the flow and offer nothing but love and devotion.
13. Bernese Mountain DogWestend61/Getty Images
Personality: Calm, Affectionate
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
Gentle souls like Bernese Mountain dogs get along swimmingly with kids and other animals. Often, they'll pick a favorite person and won't be afraid to show it. While they need ample exercise, they're also content lounging around with said favorite person, meditating or quietly contemplating life's little joys.
14. Miniature American Shepherducpage/Getty Images
Personality: Affectionate, smart
Shedding Factor: Moderate
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
These blue-eyed stunners are ideal medium-sized dogs for folks who enjoy constant companionship but aren't eager to have a giant Saint Bernard roaming their home. The Miniature American Shepherd is incredibly loyal and even keel. Their intelligence makes training a breeze
15. NewfoundlandMathias Ahrens/Getty Images
Personality: Friendly, Loving, Patient
Shedding Factor: Moderate to High
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
It's hard not to feel safe and secure around a giant, fluffy Newfoundland. These dogs may look intimidating, but they're known for their patience and ability to bring joy and comfort to people of all ages.
16. LabradoodleJim Watson/Getty Images
Height: 20-24 inches (Standard), 17-20 inches (Medium), 14-16 inches (Miniature)
Weight: 42-65 pounds (Standard), 30-45 pounds (Medium), 15-25 pounds (Miniature)
Personality: Intelligent, Dedicated, Joyful
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Originally bred to be a hypoallergenic guide dog, Labradoodles have become very popular family pets. A mix between a Labrador retriever and a poodle, they are super smart and loving. They do have lots of energy, so make sure you're ready to sign up for frequent walks and playdates outside. Once trained, they are incredibly obedient and happy to dedicate their time to you.
17. Basset HoundTimothy Clark/Getty Images
Personality: Mellow, Charismatic
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
These lazy love bugs are great lounging buddies. Though Basset Hounds can be very stubborn (I've witnessed a Basset mix named Petey refuse to go inside after a walk and weasel food from complete strangers on a neighboring porch), they are incredibly doting pets. In fact, the AKC says they are true pack animals and thrive around kids and other pets (even cats!).
18. Shih TzuRobert Alexander/Getty Images
Personality: Adaptable, affectionate
Shedding Factor: Very low
Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
Another lap dog eager to snuggle! Shih Tzus have been companion dogs for centuries, which means they are experts at easing tension, playful antics and calm nights in. Great with kids, these tiny dogs also live a long time, which means more years with your emotional support pup.
How dogs can benefit people with anxietyAside from being adorable and fluffy, dogs can help people with anxiety on a physical level. The American Heart Association says that dog owners get in more physical activity than non-dog owners and, according to the AHA's review of several published studies, pet owners have lower resting heart rates and blood pressure levels than people without pets. Pet people also have less intense reactions to aggravating events and faster recovery time after experiencing psychological or physical stress.
A 2024 survey conducted by Rover found that dogs can also make people feel less isolated (hello, constant roommate). Plus, 64 percent of respondents with pets said they feel excitement when they come home after a long day at work or a vacation. A mood boost post-work? We love it! Plus, a Human Animal Bond Research Institute survey discovered 80 percent of pet owners feel less lonely with a pet. Dogs can be excellent ice breakers when meeting someone new; pups don't mind being center stage.
Even spending time with a dog is good for stress reduction. One 2019 study out of Washington State University found that students who participated in an animal visitation program exhibited lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels after just ten minutes petting a dog! Staring at pictures of animals did not achieve the same results, which means hanging out with the real deal is a game-changer.
Types of Emotional Support DogsDogs are so good at supporting humans when it comes to mental health, we've given them official titles! There are emotional support dogs, therapy dogs and service dogs, just to name a few. These are all different in the eyes of the law - and a person can definitely adopt a dog specifically to help ease anxiety without having to register the animal anywhere as such. These designations come in handy primarily when it's time to travel or visit a public space.
Service dogs are top tier. They're highly trained animals recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act that not only provide emotional support but also perform a function that either alerts or prevents something from happening (like a seizure) or interrupts a potentially harmful cycle (like an anxiety attack). Service dogs are trained—and legally allowed—to go everywhere with their owner.
Therapy dogs also go through rigorous training and testing to get certified, but aren't usually employed full-time by someone in need. Instead, they provide social-emotional benefits to a variety of people like students, hospital patients and nursing home residents. Therapy dogs do not have the legal access or privileges that a service dog has.
Emotional support animals are companion animals medical professionals (such as psychiatrists) prescribe to patients with physical, psychiatric or intellectual disabilities, like anxiety or PTSD. ESAs receive no special training or regulated certification, nor are they required to by law. However, ESAs are protected under the Federal Fair Housing Act, which says landlords cannot discriminate against tenants who have an emotional support animal. (Also, they can be any species! Dogs, cats, even horses have served as emotional support animals.) A note from a licensed medical professional is usually required to bring an ESA on an airplane or into a public business. Make sure you check out the specific laws in your state, as they can vary.
Finally, there are companion pets. Companion dogs are similar to emotional support and therapy dogs but are different in the eyes of the law. Aka, these pets do not have legal access to the same areas that emotional support, therapy and service animals do. People suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD and similar ailments that prevent them from enjoying life are ideal candidates for companion dogs.
How to Choose the Right BreedNow, the tricky part: Choosing the best dog to help reduce anxiety. The CDC advises doing significant research before adopting the first pet you see. All individuals—human and dog—have needs that must be met. The best match might take a while to find. Be patient! Visit local shelters or reputable breeders to experience a breed first hand.
Dr. Denton also points out that dogs can reduce anxiety, but they are a big responsibility. "Dogs offer emotional support and help reduce stress, but they need routine and care, which might feel overwhelming some days," he says. "Choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and take things slow—short walks or simple training can be a good start. Remember, dogs are great, but self-care is important too."
Key elements to consider are:
Which Dog Breeds Should People with Anxiety Avoid?