
Gone are the days of needing someone to hold your hands through life’s challenges. Dogs can help improve our mood when we feel low and some breeds are especially good at cheering us up. Here are15 furry companions notable for their unwavering loyalty and spirit-lifting ambiance.
Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are loyal and affectionate making them exceptional emotional support companions. Labs can sense their owners’ emotions, which is why they are the best buddies to have by your side during life’s ups and downs. On days when you feel drained, your Lab’s playful spirit is sure to revitalize yours.
Beagle

You will get through the darkest days with the infectious enthusiasm of this breed. Beagles can connect with people on a deep level; this makes them able to figure out how you are feeling emotionally and provide you with the adequate support needed. Your Beagle’s cheerfulness is enough to get you going when you don’t feel like it.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These royal breeds are stylish, graceful, and full of affection, with gentle demeanor, and soulful eyes that bring significant comfort to the heart. These dogs exist to make you happy. They are the perfect cuddle dogs and their cheerful personality will constantly fill you with happiness.
Boston Terrier

It is easy to skip the Boston Terrier when choosing dogs to emotionally rely on due to their looks and size, but they are a pack of emotions and care deeply for their humans. On cloudy days, you will find their mischievous grin and playful spirits a good source of distraction and joy.
Pugs

Pugs are purveyors of pure joy! They are playful and charming, providing comfort with their loving personality. Pugs require less exercise, which makes them suitable for people with limited mobility. Their cheerfulness and devotion contribute significantly to improving mental health and well-being, which makes them great for the task.
American Eskimo Dog

This dog’s striking white coat and brilliant eyes exude an aura of purity and calm that goes a long way in lifting your mood. They are known to have a strong protective instinct that makes you feel safe around them. Eskimos are lively, and being around them will elevate your mood.
Bichon Frise

Bichons are the perfect emotional support dog you can cuddle when feeling sad. Bichon Frise does not get tired of staying by your side all day, giving no room for the feeling of loneliness. You will also find the Bichon a great choice if you are allergic to furs.
Dachshunds

Despite being small in size, Dachshunds are confident and fearless; this can inspire courage when you experience self-doubt. Their tiny stature does not match the depth of affection they have for their humans. They can sit with you for hours on down days and can help you retrieve items around the house.
Collie

Known for their intelligence and friendliness, Collies are ideal for those dealing with depression.. These shepherd dogs always want to be around you, which reduces the feeling of loneliness. Collies are usually active, requiring mental stimulation and exercise; indulging them will distract you from depressive thoughts and help you get a better night’s sleep.
Havanese

The Havanese dog’s cute and friendly face will win you over at first glance. Havanese are always joyful making them the best to have around on days you feel the world is against you. Havanese effortlessly creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, offering comfort and companionship in equal measure.
Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are ideal companions for introverts seeking indoor solace. Cuddled closely in your lap, they offer warmth and comfort, transforming your home into a haven of happiness. With a Shih Tzu by your side, stress melts away as you bask in their affectionate presence.
Poodle

Poodles, often stereotyped as pampered show dogs, are intelligent, adaptable, and very loving friends who can fit into any home because of their varieties in sizes. Poodles love to play, their jovial nature will rub off on you. They are the best support dogs for alleviating stress and anxiety.
Golden Retriever

Beloved for their warmth, these , loyal dogs love their humans unconditionally. Their calm and comforting presence is exactly what you need to get through your trying phase. Their playful and energetic nature is a powerful antidote to tension and unease, and their calming presence creates a serene atmosphere.
Great Dane

Though the Great Dane is often perceived as intimidating due to their size, they are incredibly calm and are ideal to snuggle. Great Danes are inherently kind and crave company which makes them a good choice for emotional support dogs. With a Great Dane at home, you will feel relaxed and safe.
Bernese Mountain Dog

Hugs are therapeutic and have lots of health benefits. The Bernese Mountain Dogs are big furry hug buddies that can help you reduce stress, and pain and boost your immune and cardiovascular health. With this affectionate breed, you will always be saddled with attention and will never feel isolated.
I have grown up with many pets – dogs, cats, parakeets, fish, & my Mom was called the “Dog Lady” because she volunteered to find homes for pets that couldn’t live with their original owners.
I lost my husband of 25 yrs. & I’m miserable. I think I should get a dog but my favorite would be a golden retriever, but they’re big dogs, so I think I may try a Cavalier King Charles spaniel – what do you think I should do?