Dog Expert Reveals 5 Best Breeds That Help Owners With Anxiety

Beyond their wagging tails and adorable faces, dogs can have a meaningful impact on human health, and one expert shared that some breeds are especially known for providing comfort and emotional support to owners with anxiety.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in the United States. An estimated 19.1 percent of U.S. adults experienced an anxiety disorder in the past year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. While dogs are not a substitute for professional treatment, research suggests they can provide meaningful emotional support and help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

A 2019 study published in the journal Animals found that participants who directly interacted with a dog experienced significantly greater reductions in anxiety and improvements in mood than those in a comparison group. The findings align with guidance from the Mayo Clinic, which notes that interacting with pets may help reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels while increasing oxytocin, a hormone associated with emotional bonding and trust.

But are there some breeds better suited to help anxious owners? Evan Doggett, a certified dog trainer on the SpotOn Fence GPS Fence Pet Trainer Board, spoke with Newsweek about five breeds he believes would be best to help owners with anxiety. However, he noted that many of the breeds have both working and show lines, which can change a dog’s temperament and exercise expectations.

Newfoundland

Often called “gentle giants,” Newfoundlands are known for their calm, steady presence and strong attachment to their humans, traits that are useful for helping ground those living with anxiety.

Doggett referred to them as “giant love bugs,” noting that their naturally gentle disposition is why they are frequently used as therapy dogs.

However, he added that their thick double coat-perfect for snuggling-comes with a trade. Owners should be prepared for significant grooming needs, including frequent brushing and vacuuming.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador retrievers remain one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, holding that title for nearly two decades. People quickly fall in love with these dogs because of their friendly and eager-to-please personalities. Their enthusiasm, trainability and desire to please have made them a staple in service and therapy programs.

“Labs are some of the happiest creatures on the planet, and there’s a reason they are the most common therapy dogs in the world,” Doggett said.

For people with anxiety, that upbeat nature can be particularly valuable. Labs often thrive on routine, activity and human interaction, helping encourage owners to get outside, stay active and maintain daily structure.

However, he cautioned that prospective owners should pay close attention to breeding lines. There are “field” Labradors, which have energy levels roughly 10 times that of a therapy-bred dog.

Golden Retriever

While Labradors are known for their exuberance, golden retrievers are often prized for their gentle, emotionally attuned nature. They are also among some of the most popular breeds in the U.S. and have long been favored in therapy settings.

“Goldens are essentially bigger, fluffier Labs,” Doggett said. “They are also used very frequently for therapy work, as their disposition is kind and loving.”

That affectionate temperament can make golden retrievers particularly well-suited to owners looking for a constant companion.

Doggett noted that, like Labradors, not all golden retrievers have the same energy level. Field-line goldens, which are typically bred for hunting and sporting work, are generally more driven and active than companion-bred lines.

“Red goldens almost always mean a field dog,” he said.

Poodles

According to Doggett, both the poodle and miniature poodle can excel as therapy or emotional support dogs.

“I've had the opportunity to work with many poodles serving as guide and therapy dogs over the years,” he said. “Once they know their job, they are very invested in making sure their humans are OK.”

While poodles can be extremely playful, they are also independent. Doggett added that this breed often stays close to its owners in stimulating environments, such as the dog park.

Greyhound

Retired racing greyhounds may surprise some people with how calm they are at home, given their reputation for being the fastest dogs, but Doggett said they are laid-back and can make great therapy dogs.

“These dogs are extremely laid-back,” Doggett said. “They need a good run like most dogs, but they often walk at a calm pace on leash.”

Newsweek previously reported that greyhounds are one of the dog breeds that sleep the most. These “couch potatoes” will sleep between 18 and 22 hours a day, but it does not take away from their loyalty.

He added that greyhounds frequently form especially close bonds with one or two people, making them strong companions for anxious owners seeking consistency and emotional connection.

Rescue Dogs Can Be Exceptional Companions

Doggett said some of the best therapy dogs he has encountered, whether owning or training, were rescue dogs, particularly mixed breeds, typically around 5 to 7 years old.

“Some people think that a dog that age is too old to learn new tricks, but that couldn’t be further from the truth!” he said. “Dogs of any age can learn and the older ones often learn faster because they are calmer and already have some basics.”

Plus, older dogs often require less exercise than younger dogs while still wanting to give their undivided attention to their humans.

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This story was originally published May 24, 2026 at 8:00 AM.