If you suffer from anxiety or depression, consider adopting a canine companion! Everyone knows that man's best friend provides unconditional love and emotional support, and studies confirm that spending time with our furry pals can lift us up when we're feeling down. While caring for a pup does not come without responsibilities, both dog parents and experts agree that the mental health benefits of having a pooch far outweigh the inconveniences that come along with it. With a four-legged pal in your life, you not only have someone to cuddle while watching tv, but also a reason to get out of bed each morning. Here are the top dog breeds that will add more sunshine to your days!
If you live in a small space, then the Yorkshire Terrier may be the pawfect roommate for you. The Yorkie will follow you around the house and curl up on your lap as you read a book. This petite breed will cheer you up with their cute face and remind you that you're not alone.
The Poodle loves being around their favorite person, so rest assured that you'll have a loyal companion by your side when times get tough in this highly intelligent breed. Stroking your Poodle's curly, hypoallergenic coat can also improve your mood—doing so will bring down your cortisol levels, the body's main stress hormone.
The Labrador Retriever is an outgoing and active breed, encouraging their humans to go outside and get some exercise with them. Physical activity and social interaction are excellent for keeping depression at bay. At home, you can count on the famously friendly Lab to give you love and comfort whenever you need it!Â
Similar to the Lab, the Golden Retriever will make sure you're not cooped up in the house all day long. This athletic breed will have you going out for walks and enjoying your surroundings. It's hard to feel down with a Golden Retriever around—their jovial and puppy-like personality will remind you that things aren't so bad.
The Vizsla nearly went extinct at the end of World War I, but furtunately, they're still around! Bred to hunt alongside humans, Vizslas form strong bonds with people and do not like being left alone. Take this energetic breed jogging or biking with you—you'll both feel great afterward! The Vizsla's floppy ears and various facial expressions will surely crack you up as well.
One look at the Jack Russell Terrier's adorable face and your stress will certainly melt away! This cute little pupper is bursting with a very playful personality that's hard to resist. The JRT's high energy is contagious and may just be what you need to make it through the day.
Don't let the Staffordshire Bull Terrier's tough looks fool you, for underneath that muscular build is an affectionate and sweet-natured dog with a soft spot for kids. Staffies make great nannies, playmates, and even pillows for older children with anxiety or depression. As long as they are exercised daily, this breed is a puptastic addition to any family!
The Newfoundland is a breed that has gained a good “nanny dog” reputation. Powerful yet patient, and sweet-tempered, the Newf is a gentle giant that will bring a feeling of calm to your home. As one of the biggest dogs in the world, this breed is best suited for large living spaces.
Good-natured and affectionate, the Bernese Mountain Dog can help alleviate the symptoms of depression and anxiety with their placid personality. While they get along well with the whole family, they usually become attached to one particular person. If that's you, consider yourself lucky—you now have a best friend for life!
The English Bulldog is a friendly and docile doggo that can make you feel better simply by sitting next to you while you're watching TV or snuggling with you in bed. This easygoing breed will happily accompany you on brisk walks around your neighborhood. During the summer months, you can relax together in an air-conditioned room to keep your Bulldog from becoming overheated.