Best Breeds for Therapy Dogs
13 breeds
Gentle, calm breeds that excel at providing comfort and emotional support in therapeutic settings.
Who is this for?
Top 10 Therapy Dog Breeds
| Breed | Size | Energy | Grooming | Trainability | Kids | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1  | Small | medium | High | easy | 12-15 yrs | |
2  | Small | medium | Low | easy | 11-13 yrs | |
3  | Large | high | Low | moderate | 10-12 yrs | |
4  | Medium | medium | High | easy | 10-14 yrs | |
5  | Medium | medium | High | easy | 10-14 yrs | |
6  | Medium | high | High | easy | 12-14 yrs | |
7  | Large | high | Medium | moderate | 9-12 yrs | |
8  | Large | high | Medium | easy | 10-12 yrs | |
9  | Extra Small | medium | High | easy | 14-16 yrs | |
10  | Extra Small | medium | High | moderate | 12-15+ yrs |
Bichon Frise
Boston Terrier
Boxer
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniel (American)
English Springer Spaniel
Flat-Coated Retriever
Golden Retriever
Havanese
Maltese
All 13 Breeds
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful dog breed known for its fluffy white coat and playful, affectionate nature. Originally bred as a companion dog, it is highly sociable and adaptable, making it a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is the 'American Gentleman' - a compact, tuxedo-marked companion bred for affection, not aggression. This brachycephalic breed requires climate control, has high vet costs, and will make your home smell like flatulence.
Boxer
The Boxer is a medium to large-sized breed known for its strong, muscular build, playful nature, and distinctive square-shaped head. Often described as a 'three-year-old child in a dog suit' due to their perpetual exuberance and playful spirit.
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a beloved breed known for its gentle demeanor, intelligence, and distinctive long, floppy ears. Originally bred as a hunting dog, this med
Cocker Spaniel (American)
The American Cocker Spaniel is a beloved dog breed known for its friendly and affectionate nature, characterized by its distinctive flowing coat, expressive eyes, and compact, sturdy build.
English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a versatile and energetic breed known for its friendly and affectionate nature, making it an excellent companion for families and active individuals.
Flat-Coated Retriever
The Flat-Coated Retriever is a cheerful and energetic gun dog breed known for its glossy black or liver-colored coat and friendly disposition. Originally developed in the UK for retrieving game both on land and in water, this versatile and intelligent breed is celebrated for its playful nature and strong bond with families.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a friendly and intelligent dog breed known for its gentle temperament and striking golden coat. Originally bred for retrieving game, the
Havanese
The Havanese is Cuba's national dog - a cheerful, silky-coated companion bred for centuries as a lapdog for aristocracy. Hypoallergenic, highly trainable, and the ultimate velcro dog.
Maltese
The Maltese is an ancient companion breed with a long, silky white coat. Known for its affectionate, devoted nature and low-shedding coat, this toy breed requires dedicated grooming but rewards owners with unwavering devotion.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a giant, gentle breed known as the 'St. Bernard of the Water' - massive strength, thick water-resistant coat, webbed feet, and extraordinary swimming ability. Famous as 'nanny dogs' for their patient nature with children, but the Giant Breed Tax is real: everything costs more, from food to vet bills.
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is a high-energy, hypoallergenic working breed with a curly coat, originally bred to assist Portuguese fishermen with herding fish and retrieving gear.
Scottish Sheepdog Longhair
The Scottish Sheepdog Longhair (Rough Collie) is a gentle, intelligent herding breed famous for 'Lassie.' Known for its stunning long coat, loyal temperament, and natural elegance, this breed excels as a family companion.
What to Avoid for Therapy Dog Breeds
Traits that may not work well for this scenario
Certification Required
Legitimate therapy dogs need certification from organizations like Pet Partners or TDI.
Not the Same as ESAs
Therapy dogs visit facilities to help others—they do not have public access rights like service dogs.
Regular Commitment Needed
Therapy work requires consistent visits and maintaining your dog's training and certification.