This post was written by ScIU Social Media Intern, Autumn Shively.

Mental health awareness in the United States has become less taboo throughout the decade. As people both young and old become more comfortable talking about their mental health, methods for treatments are constantly evolving. Since 40 million adults in the US are diagnosed with anxiety disorder and 18 million adults suffer from depression, those who are dealing with their diagnosis are trying new approaches for coping with their disorders [1]. 

While the traditional route of therapy and prescription medication to manage a mental health disorder works for many, the use of therapy dogs has proven as an effective method to improve mental health. Research proves that the human-animal bond is mutually beneficial. The relationship between humans and animals is not one-sided, and instead, both members are benefiting in terms of health and well-being [2]. A therapy dog’s responsibility is to provide treatment for the mind and body.

Benefits that therapy dogs provide on mental health are immeasurable. Therapy dogs provide comfort, decrease anxiety, reduce loneliness, encourage communication, and decrease feelings of isolation or boredom [3]. However, the effects of a therapy dog are not only seen on one’s mental wellbeing, but their physical health as well. Interactions with therapy dogs can lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, release endorphins, and diminish overall physical pain. 

Therapy dogs do not just help those suffering from mental illness, but a wide range of people. Places such as nursing homes, hospitals, and schools have all seen the positive impacts that therapy dogs can provide. The universal love between dogs and humans can be characterized by the production of oxytocin in the human brain. This hormone triggers the feeling of relaxation and trust, causing a bond to form between human and dog [4]. 

As research continues to prove the positive effects therapy dogs have on humans, the number of therapy dogs getting certified is increasing. The criteria for a dog to become a therapy dog is that the dog must be mature, intelligent, comfortable being touched, and typically pass an obedience test to ensure they succeed in public. After a dog receives its certification, it is permitted to travel via airplane, bus, or other stress inducing environments. 

There are often questions pertaining to which breed of therapy dog is best. Typically, purebred dogs are preferred as therapy dogs being that mixed breeds’ actions may be difficult to predict. Here is a fun list of ten most commonly mentioned dog breeds, from three websites , on some of the best dogs for dog therapy and the benefits to each. It is good to note that the list is in no particular order because the resources had different rankings! [5, 6, 7]

1. Poodles not only do not trigger allergic reactions, but they are also amazing to have at your side as a companion. Plus, they can fit in every situation because their sizes can vary. With extremely intelligent intuition poodles can pick up emotion and comfort those surrounding them.
2. French Bulldogs not only warm your heart but also your lap. These lap dogs are well-behaved and are adorable to look at! What more could you want!
3. Pugs and their smooshed in little faces are energetic and bring a sense of light to your life with all the excitement they contain. These lovable, attentive dogs bring all the fun.
4. Dachshund and their long, lengthy bodies have some spunk to them. Even with their little legs they love to be active and play while giving and receiving affection.
5. King Charles Spaniels are a whole lot of fluff and absolutely adorable. They are known for their loyal companionship and obedient behaviors.
6. Golden Retrievers are beautiful dogs that are extremely friendly with whoever surrounds them. Known for their loyalty and loveable, kind attitudes these dogs are also popular pets.
7. Border Collies thrive in therapeutic communities because they, too, love the attention and comfort they receive from humans. Endearing and comforting, these dogs can bond quickly to humans and enjoy giving lots of attention.
8. Pomeranians are a bundle of fluff that warms you like a blanket. Their cute faces and petit bodies also make them a wonderful lap dog with calm and soothing personalities.
9. Corgis are adaptable to their situations, so they do well in therapeutic environments connecting to humans well. In addition to that, they also always bring a smile on their face which is contagious to anyone surrounding them with their cute and short, stalky style.
10. Yorkshire Terriers can bring a great sense of intuition into a therapeutic environment due to their alarming senses. They are easy to hold onto and know how to read the room well. They bring great charismatic energy into a room.

Dogs are an amazing beneficial aspect to our society and we are lucky to have them. As they say, dogs are man’s best friend! 

References

[1] Depression Facts
[2] Benefits of the Human-Animal Bond
[3] Benefits of Pet Therapy
[4] How to Train a Therapy Dog
[5] Labrador Breed Information
[6] 10 Small Dog Breeds for Therapy Work
[7] 25 Best Therapy Dog Breeds List

Edited by Dan Myers and Jennifer Sieben