15 Top Therapy Dog Breeds With Images

Therapy dogs can be more helpful than you might think. Some breeds are better at dealing with therapy situations than others. There are many types of therapy dogs, and each role can be different. This opens the door to many other breeds that could qualify as therapy dogs. This guide contains our top picks of the best therapy dogs. This list is sure to have a dog that works for you and your family.

1. French Bulldog

French Bulldog is our first choice for therapy dogs. The French Bulldog is a large therapy dog that can also be a wonderful companion. With its gentle nature and affection, the French Bulldog can make any person feel better. Although many believe they are hypoallergenic, the French Bulldog isn’t. French Bulldogs are a multi-faceted breed with a lot of personalities. However, they can be trained to be social and alert to recognize differences in human behavior.

• Temperament: Loving and patient, loving, alert, patient, playful, smart

2. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is a wonderful therapy dog. Ask any Labrador Retriever owner and they will tell you that the dog sees them as a human. Labrador Retrievers are great therapy dogs because they have this kind of awareness and want to be part of the family. They are sensitive to your feelings and will seek out love and attention whenever you feel off. The Labrador Retriever has many other great characteristics. They are also highly intelligent and can be trained.

• Temperament: Kind, Loving, Loyal, Affectionate, Intelligent

3. Poodle

Poodles are able to act as therapy dogs and come in many sizes. Both the Standard Poodle and Toy Poodle make excellent therapy dogs. For situations in which a smaller dog is needed, the Toy poodle is better. Poodles are one of the most intelligent dogs on record. They learn quickly and are quick to master their role as therapy dogs.

• Temperament: Intelligent, Trainable, Faithful, Moderate energy

4. Greyhound

Although Greyhound isn’t often considered therapy dogs they make great additions to any family or individual who needs one. Because of their racing career, there are usually quite a few Greyhounds that can be adopted. Although Greyhounds are commonly thought to be racing dogs, they can also be very affectionate and calm. Greyhounds love to exercise, but they are calm and gentle around people. Greyhound owners will tell their Greyhounds that they are the sweetest dog they have ever owned.

• Temperament: Intelligent, Sweet, Gentle, Affectionate

5. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is often viewed as the wild, goofy dog next door. The Golden Retriever can make a great therapy dog if they are properly trained from puppyhood. The Golden Retriever is a very friendly and affectionate dog. The Golden, like the Labrador Retrievers, has a way to know when you are in need of their attention and is always willing and able to help.

• Temperament: Loyal, friendly, affectionate, Smart, Loyal

6. Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is an excellent choice if you are looking for a therapy dog that is smaller than the average dog. They are very outgoing dogs who love to meet new people. They are only seven pounds and can be a great size. The Pomeranian is a great dog for anyone who needs a dog to travel with. The Pomeranian is playful, active, and friendly. It is easy to train Pomeranian therapy dogs because of their intelligence.

• Temperament: Outgoing, friendly, smart, social

7. Collie

Anyone who can remember Lassie will be familiar with Collie’s abilities to be loyal and loving therapy dogs. The Collie breed is medium-sized and has an affectionate and gentle personality. The Collie is intelligent and can be trained to do incredible things. They are loyal and protective, but also loyal. The Collie is not only a wonderful therapy dog but also makes a great family pet.

• Temperament: Kind, Active, Friendly, Gentle.

8. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkie is another name for the Yorkshire Terrier. These small terrier dogs pack a lot of personality and energy into their small bodies. Yorkies are confident dogs that can walk into any room as if they own it. Yorkies can be social and friendly if they are trained properly from the beginning. The Yorkshire Terrier is a friendly and charming dog. You feel like a Yorkshire Terrier is in control when you spend time with them.

• Temperament: Bold, Outgoing, Intelligent, Confident

9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

In the past five to ten years, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is gaining popularity. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small breed that can grow to about 15-18 pounds. They are social dogs and will play with you every day. They are great companions and therapy dogs and can be housebroken.

• Temperament: Affectionate, Happy, Friendly, Outgoing

10. German Shepard

German Shepards are large-breed dogs that can be used as both therapy dogs and working dogs. The German Shepard is intelligent, loyal, and protective. The German Shepard is an alert animal that can pick up on small changes in the environment and personality. They make excellent therapy dogs because they are so alert to what is happening.

• Temperament: Intelligent, Loyal, Alert, Protective

11. Maltese

The Maltese are miniature teddy bears. They are one the most affectionate and easygoing breeds. Maltese can be active and energetic but they also know how to relax and stay calm. You won’t need to run around the yard every day with this dog. A Maltese is a delightful, affectionate dog that is easy to take care of. They are affectionate and love to be loved by their owners and have a lot to give back.

• Temperament: Sweet, Playful, Gentle, Affectionate

12. Beagle

A beagle is a cute, puppy-like companion who will be as loyal and loving as any dog. A beagle is intelligent and friendly and makes a great companion dog or therapy dog. You will need to be aware of how your beagle behaves when being trained. The Beagle is medium-sized and makes a great companion for protection and affection.

• Temperament: Intelligent, Loyal, Compassionate, Friendly

13. Pug

The Pug is a small breed that is well-known for its curly tail and wrinkled face. A Pug is a friendly dog who will stay close to its owner when possible. Although they love to play and get some energy out, Pugs are incredibly affectionate and calm. When trained correctly, Pugs can be extremely helpful and intelligent.

• Temperament: Charming, Sociable, Quiet

14. Corgi

The Corgi is last on our list. Because of its strong personality and protective nature, the Corgi is often used to be a therapy dog. When it comes to their owners’ care and protection, small dogs are a powerful breed. The Corgi is a friendly, outgoing dog that enjoys playing but doesn’t need a lot of space. The Corgi is a wonderful therapy dog and a playful family pet.

• Temperament: Bold and Playful, Protective

15. Dachshund

Dachshunds love to be around people and they are very social dogs. They are always happier curled up on someone else’s lap.

They are also active, playful, fearless, and fun, which means they can always do interesting things for patients. They are smart and easily trainable so they can be managed when necessary.

The Last Word

It is important to look at the breed of the therapy dog as well as the animal when choosing one. Many dog breeds are great therapy dogs, even if they don’t make it on our list. Therapy dogs can be matched between their owner and their dog. No matter what your needs are, we hope you find a furry friend who brightens your day.

A therapy dog is a great companion for family members who are aging, living alone, or need long-term care services. LTC NEWS has more information about the future of aging and the costs and benefits of long-term care.