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10 Best Emotional Support Dog Breeds for Anxiety and Depression
An emotional support dog (ESA) for anxiety and depression offers calm, companionship, and structure. With their loyal, judgment-free presence, an ESA can help ease anxiety and bring comfort during difficult moments.
Choose breeds with calm temperaments – Dogs with natural calmness can create a peaceful environment, ideal for reducing anxiety and providing steady comfort.
Look for affectionate, bonding breeds – Loyal, affectionate breeds help fill emotional voids, making them great for easing loneliness and providing comfort during depressive moments.
Consider trainable dogs for added structure – Trainable breeds respond well to routines, offering stability and structure that can ease mental health challenges.
Find the perfect ESA companion – Whether you’re looking for a cuddly lap dog or a calming larger breed, take our quiz to find the best ESA for you.
Struggling with your mental health can make even the smallest of tasks feel impossible. Going outside, moving your body, or even resting can feel overwhelming. That’s where an emotional support animal (ESA) can make all the difference, offering judgment-free comfort, inspiration, and love when you need it most. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or just feeling overwhelmed, the right animal can lead to better emotional stability through structure, companionship, and affection.
While almost any dog can bring joy, some breeds are especially good at tuning into your feelings and giving you what you need most. Whether it’s a calm presence to help you breathe or a cuddle buddy to feel comforted and safe, an ESA can help make everything feel a little bit better.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best emotional support dog breeds for anxiety and depression — the ones that give comfort without asking too much of you.
Emotional Support Dog for Anxiety and Depression
An emotional support animal (ESA) for anxiety and depression is a companion that provides comfort, calmness, and stability through their presence. ESAs can help reduce symptoms by offering structure, companionship, and affection without judgment, helping to ease feelings of anxiety and depression. With the right ESA, individuals may find relief through routines, emotional bonding, and the joy of caring for a loyal, understanding pet.
What Makes a Good Emotional Support Dog for Anxiety and Depression?
When it comes to choosing the best dog breeds for emotional support, it’s all about finding a companion that brings you comfort and stability when life feels overwhelming. Not every dog is naturally suited to your needs and lifestyle, so you’ll want to focus on traits that fit you best. Whether you only want a snuggle buddy or a dog that pushes you to get out more, there are certain things to look for in an emotional support dog:
Calm Temperament
If you’ve ever had an anxiety-ridden day, the last thing you probably want is an anxious dog bouncing off the walls. Dogs with a naturally calm, easy-going temperament might be best for creating a peaceful environment. Imagine a dog that simply sits quietly by your side, providing a steady, grounding presence when your mind is racing. Calm dogs might even help reduce anxiety simply by being there with their calming and reassuring energy.
Affectionate Nature
If you’re struggling with depression, a dog that just wants to be near you, offering endless affection, might be best. Dogs that bond closely with their humans and thrive on their interaction might help fill the loneliness that tends to come with depression.
Trainability
Life with anxiety and depression can feel chaotic. That’s why having a dog that’s easy to train and responsive to routines can be a huge plus. Trainable dogs offer structure and a sense of control, which can be especially helpful when managing mental health conditions. Whether it’s teaching them a comforting cue during panic attacks or getting them into a daily routine, a well-trained dog might help bring order to the chaos.
Top 10 Emotional Support Dog Breeds for Anxiety and Depression
Deciding on an animal is about more than choosing a cute face. Just like when searching for a life partner, looks aren’t everything. You want to find a dog you connect with emotionally and are compatible with on a day to day basis.
Here’s a breakdown of the best dog breeds for emotional support that can be a great fit for people with anxiety and depression.
1. Labrador Retriever
You’ve had a long, exhausting day, maybe your mind is racing and you’re feeling overwhelmed. You come home or look over your shoulder and see your Lab, who nudges your hand and offers some affection. You go to pet them, and that moment of physical touch and connection with an innocent, carefree soul relaxes your tense muscles and lets you take a deep breath of relief.
Labs can be incredibly friendly, gentle, and trainable. They’re especially known for their loyalty and caring attitude. They’re great at creating a calm, stable, or even silly vibe, helping to give you a reprieve from the thoughts racing in your mind.
Breed Information:
Size: Medium to large (55-80 lbs)
Color: Yellow, black, chocolate
Temperament: Friendly, gentle, loyal, and trainable
Ideal For: Creating a calm, stable atmosphere with affectionate companionship
2. Golden Retriever
Seeing your Golden Retriever wagging his tail, excited to greet you when you get home can make your homecomings a welcome relief. They’re intelligent and seem to have a sense of when you’re anxious and need comfort. In unstable moments, they can sit by you and offer a grounding presence. Their calm demeanor and friendly nature can take the edge off the tough times.
Plus, they’re known for being social. That means it could be a great fit if you want to work on socializing more by heading to dog parks or having chats with other dog owners.
Breed Information:
Size: Medium to large (55-75 lbs)
Color: Golden shades
Temperament: Intelligent, calm, friendly, and social
Ideal For: Providing grounding comfort and a supportive presence during anxiety
3. Poodle (Standard or Miniature)
Poodles tend to catch on quickly to routines and cues, like knowing when you need your space or a cuddle instead. They’re a great fit if you need structure to manage your anxiety, helping to bring a sense of order to your day. They’re also hypoallergenic, so you don’t have to worry about allergies getting in the way of cuddle time.
Breed Information:
Size: Standard (45-70 lbs) or Miniature (10-15 lbs)
Color: Various, including white, black, and apricot
Temperament: Intelligent, hypoallergenic, structured, and adaptable
Ideal For: Adding structure to your day with a hypoallergenic, low-shedding coat
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers might not be big, but they’re huge when it comes to cuddles. They’re known for snuggling, which is great for when you’re feeling down. They can nestle into your lap while you take a moment to relax, offering you some warmth and comfort. They’re quite gentle and thrive on connection, making them great if you want emotional closeness without effort.
Breed Information:
Size: Small (13-18 lbs)
Color: Chestnut, tri-color, black & tan, or ruby
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and calm
Ideal For: Snuggling and providing warmth and comfort during low moments
5. Cocker Spaniel
This breed can be like that best friend who just knows when you need a hug. They’re loyal and affectionate, offering a calming sensation and physical touch when you’re feeling stressed and anxious. Their steady companionship can be of great comfort, especially on hard days when you just need a soothing presence nearby to keep you going.
Breed Information:
Size: Medium (20-30 lbs)
Color: Various, including black, tan, and parti-color
Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, and intuitive
Ideal For: Offering steady companionship and calming physical touch during stress
Chihuahuas are small in size but big on love and loyalty. They’re a great lap and daily traveling dog, like for running errands with companionship. You never really have to be alone with them nearby. Plus, if you live in a small space, they can fit right in. They’ll sleep on your lap and happily stay by your side.
Breed Information:
Size: Tiny (3-6 lbs)
Color: Variety of colors and patterns
Temperament: Loyal, lively, and loving
Ideal For: Lap dog companionship, fitting easily into small living spaces
7. French Bulldog
If you want a low-maintenance, chilled-out companion, a French Bulldog might be your best match. They’re usually content to spend a relaxing day sleeping on the couch with you, giving you a calming energy that helps put anxiety at ease. Plus, they’re not big on exercise, so you don’t have to feel too much pressure to take them on big hikes and walks, or let them run for hours in a dog park.
Breed Information:
Size: Small (16-28 lbs)
Color: Fawn, brindle, cream, and more
Temperament: Relaxed, easygoing, and affectionate
Ideal For: Low-maintenance companionship with minimal exercise needs
8. Pug
Pugs can get so excited to see you that they wriggle with excitement — and coming home to that after a hard day has the power to bring a much-needed smile. Their cheerful, laid-back attitude can be a mood-shifter and remind you of the simple things in life. They love being around people and don’t need too much exercise, making them great for a cozy lifestyle.
Breed Information:
Size: Small (14-18 lbs)
Color: Fawn, black
Temperament: Cheerful, laid-back, and people-loving
Ideal For: Boosting mood with their playful energy and simple, cozy lifestyle
9. Yorkshire Terrier
While not always thought of as one of the top emotional support dogs, Yorkies are tiny, cuddly dogs perfect for apartment life. They’re incredibly affectionate and loyal, so you don’t have to worry about them leaving your side. They’re ready to give love and happy to travel with you, making them great for running errands with a little companion.
Breed Information:
Size: Tiny (4-7 lbs)
Color: Blue & tan
Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, and adaptable
Ideal For: Apartment living and companionship, especially for traveling or errands
10. Great Dane
Great Danes might look a bit intimidating, but they’re really like big teddy bears. They’re calm and affectionate, and their big size can make you feel safe. Their massive presence can create a sense of protection and comfort, along with their calm vibes. If you’re struggling with anxiety, they can be like a chill best friend, sharing their relaxed mood with you.
Breed Information:
Size: Extra-large (110-175 lbs)
Color: Fawn, black, harlequin, brindle, and others
Temperament: Calm, gentle, and protective
Ideal For: Providing a sense of security with their relaxed, comforting presence
How to Choose the Right Emotional Support Dog Breed for You
When it comes to choosing an emotional support dog for anxiety or depression, it’s all about finding one with the right temperament and needs that suit you. Even beyond the breed, each animal has a bit of their own unique “personality”. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:
Consider Your Living Situation
A cozy apartment might not be the best fit for a Great Dane. Big dogs need space to stretch out, and if you don’t want to feel cramped while living in a small space, a little dog might be best. For example, smaller breed options that work well in apartments could be Chihuahuas or French Bulldogs.
Energy Levels
Try finding a dog whose energy levels won’t stress you out. For example, if you struggle with anxiety and find peace in a calm environment, a high-energy dog that needs lots of attention and excitement might not be the best fit (unless you’re looking for that type of change). A laid-back breed like a Pug or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel could be a good match if you prefer a chill, low-energy companion. They’ll happily sleep by your side, offering comfort without any added pressure to go for long walks or trips to the dog park.
Personal Preferences
Everyone has a different idea of what they’re looking for. Some people want a super affectionate dog that’s always licking their face and jumping on their lap, while others just want a calm cuddle buddy. For example, Cocker Spaniels or Yorkshire Terriers are known for being close to their humans, following them from room to room. Meanwhile, a more independent breed like a Poodle can be loving but not necessarily overly clingy. They might be more likely to sense when you need love versus space to breathe. Think about the type of dog personality you’d like around you 24/7 before settling on a specific breed.
Do I need a specific breed for an emotional support dog?
No, any breed can be an emotional support dog. However, the best dog breeds for anxiety and depression are naturally better suited for providing comfort, calmness, and emotional stability.
Are larger or smaller breeds better for anxiety and depression?
It all depends on your needs and lifestyle. Larger dogs might offer a calming, protective presence, while smaller breeds can be more adaptable to small spaces and often enjoy cuddling, which can be soothing during tough moments.
How do I make my dog an emotional support animal?
You’ll need a letter from a licensed mental health professional stating that your dog provides emotional support for your condition — which you can get with Pettable online, stress-free. No special certification is required for ESAs.
What training does an emotional support dog need?
Emotional support dogs don’t need specific training, but it helps if they’re calm, well-behaved, and responsive to basic commands so they can easily fit into your daily life without the stress of training them.
What are the best dog breeds for apartment living if I have anxiety?
It depends on your personal preferences and needs, but smaller, low-energy breeds like French Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels might be best for apartment living.
Final Thoughts
Getting a dog that fits your lifestyle and brings light to your day has the power to impact how your overall mood and mental health. For anyone struggling with anxiety or depression, it’s best to take some time to consider your needs and the type of dog that could cheer you up without overwhelming or asking too much of you.
For example, think about if you want to go on longer walks in the park and get out more to nature together on hikes. Maybe instead, you just want a little furry companion to cuddle with in your apartment or take around the city with you, making smaller lower-energy dog breeds a better fit.
In the end, the breed along with your personal preferences and needs matter most. With a good match, your emotional support dog can become your loyal, calming companion and friend, giving you a reprieve during tough times.
Nadya Khoja is the Head of Content & SEO at Pettable. She has been featured on Forbes, CBC, Wall Street Journal, and many other notable publications. She has spoken around the world, educating various business leaders about building and executing scalable marketing strategies in the health tech space.
