The Best Therapy Dogs Revealed

Good therapy dogs like people and have the basic training needed to result in a dog that is under control, says Burch. They should also know some therapy-specific skills such as “Leave it” and “Go say hello.” Most good therapy dogs are social and biddable.

Here, Burch shares a round-up of breeds that have the personality and trainability to excel at therapy work.

#1 Borzoi: 

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Because of their intelligence, independence, and keen sense of awareness, you’ll see Borzois working as loyal psychiatric assistance dogs, helping veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Borzois have a calm, agreeable temperament that lends itself very well to all kinds of therapy work.

#2 Spinone Italiano:

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The Spinone Italiano excels at therapy work because of its sociable, docile nature. This breed loves being with people.

#3  Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:

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Cavaliers make wonderful therapy dogs due to their sweet, gentle nature. They are friendly, easily trainable companions.

#4  Poodle:

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Poodles are practically made for therapy work. They are extremely smart, eager-to-please, and highly trainable. They like to work closely with their owners.

#5 Labrador Retriever:

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Labs are famously friendly and outgoing. They’re intelligent and willing to please, making them easily trainable. They’re sociable dogs that love being with people.

#6  Leonberger: 

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Typically calm, stable, and sociable, Leonbergers make good therapy dogs. They have a gentle, patient nature.

#7 Bichon Frise:

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The Bichon Frise has a wonderful personality. The breed is known for its cheerful, playful, social nature, and is meant to be a companion.

#8  Australian Shepherd: 

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Aussies are extremely smart, versatile, and trainable. They have a ton of mental drive and physical stamina which can be channeled into many different types of jobs, therapy work being one of them.

#9 Golden Retriever:

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The Golden Retriever’s intelligence, working ability, and eager-to-please attitude make it excellent at therapy work. Their friendly, outgoing temperament helps them connect very well with people.

#10 Papillon:

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The Papillon is a happy, friendly dog. They are less yappy and more easily trained than other toy breeds, making them great for therapy work.

This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Dog magazine. Subscribe today!