The best small emotional support dogs. The use of emotional support animals is highly regarded in the field of natural therapies because it is both an innovative and effective method of treating emotional illnesses.
These small dogs offer unconditional affection and care to people who are suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mental illnesses and also they are widely regarded as the most popular choice for people in need of the services of an emotional support animal.
A dog of any breed and size has the potential to be an excellent emotional support animal; however, there are certain dog breeds that have a good predisposition and tend to be more obedient and trainable than others.
There are a lot of small dogs that are more suitable for living in small apartments or traveling. They don’t need a lot of space, but they give you a lot of love and support while they’re sitting on your lap or chest, which is something that a large-breed dog would have trouble doing.
Consider adopting a dog from a local shelter to be your emotional support dog. See my article on Why Adopt a Dog for details.
If looking to travel with them, check out our Amtrak Emotional Support Animal Guidelines.
Check out our list of the best small emotional support dogs if you want to get a cute one but have no idea which breed would be best for you. Some of these best small dogs for emotional support are purebred and hybrid small dog breeds.
Your day will be made better by the presence of such caring friends.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Due to their long history of domestication, these dogs make the best possible life companions and are able to provide exceptional emotional support. Due to its well-earned reputation as a “cuddlebug,” the Cavalier King Charles spaniel is nearly at the top of everyone’s list of best small emotional support dogs.
These incredibly affectionate dogs are true companion dogs; they pick up new skills quickly and are eager to please their owners. If you need intense love and affection, a “comforter spaniel” won’t mind giving you some of what it has to offer.
As a result of their insatiable need for hugs and kisses, these affectionate pets can tremendously help their owners when they are suffering from depression. They are happy just to be in your presence, whether you’re going on a long walk or snuggling on a couch. These dogs are also one of the best small therapy dogs you can find.
Loving and gentle, King Charles was a top dog in royal circles back in the day, but they don’t have the attitude of a monarch; they are content to just be around you.
They are wonderful companions for people who suffer from depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The King Charles is also on our list of the easiest small dogs to potty train.
Poodle
Also on our list of best small breed service dogs, Poodles are among the most obedient and intelligent of all the canine breeds. Due to their eagerness to please their owners, they are easy to train and dependable companions.
The intellectual capacity of a poodle enables them to take pleasure in the complex challenges that come with being an emotional support animal. The athleticism of a poodle ensures that they adore being busy with your needs and won’t ever feel overwhelmed.
They are also easily adaptable to different circumstances, which allow them to maintain a consistent focus on the individual they are supporting. The fact that they are well-mannered and enjoy the company of their owners makes them ideal candidates for the role as one of the best small emotional support dogs and ensures that they will perform their duties effectively.
The Poodle is also on our list of the small dogs with the least health issues.
Yorkshire Terrier
There are several reasons why Yorkies are frequently used in roles of service or support animals. According to the Psychiatric Service Dog Society, certain mental health conditions are best treated with the assistance of a dog.
Since ancient times, Yorkies have been known to be emotionally and mentally beneficial to their owners, including boosting the morale of soldiers fighting in the trenches during World War I. Despite their diminutive size, Yorkies are overflowing with love and affection.
Do not be concerned if you live in a small house or apartment. A Yorkshire Terrier can thrive in small living spaces and are small enough to be carried around easily, which is an added benefit for people who struggle emotionally.
Yorkies are also able to perform admirably in the role of lap dog, allowing their caregivers the chance to physically embrace them whenever they feel the need.
These small wonder dogs are also capable of learning a wide variety of tasks around the home. It is no wonder the Yorkie is on the list of the best small emotional support dogs.
The Yorkshire Terrier is also on our list of cute small hypoallergenic dogs.
Pug
Pugs may have a reputation for looking grumpy on the outside, but on the inside, they are happy and make excellent emotional support animals.
Pugs are known for having the most hilarious personalities and the most optimistic ways of thinking. Their innate desire to make other people feel better is intertwined with their intuitive understanding.
Pugs are known as the “clowns” of the dog world because of their human-like facial expressions and friendly, jovial demeanor. Almost everyone they meet is delighted by pugs.
Their outgoing personalities make them excellent candidates as best small dogs for emotional support in virtually any condition.
These charming little animals make wonderful pets because they are well-mannered, even-tempered, and get along particularly well with children.
The Pug is also on our list of low energy small dogs.
Chihuahua
A Chihuahua is a small dog with many personalities that can help anyone who is struggling with mental health issues. Chihuahuas have grit and character, and they are the kind of dogs who will spend all of their time wishing you were there with them.
Chihuahuas are wonderful companion animals; they are well-behaved, cuddly, and will make you want to leave work early when you have one.
You shouldn’t be worried if your plans require you to be gone for multiple days. When you travel, you can carry them with you and alleviate the stress associated with traveling.
Chi’s are great for relieving stress, and they come in a convenient travel size!
The Chihuahua is also on our list of easiest small dogs to train.
Welsh Corgi
The characteristics of people and everything about the Corgis point to one thing: how wonderful these dogs are for providing emotional support. You really can’t go wrong with this dog because he is so easygoing, intelligent, and affectionate, and his loving face and unwavering devotion are enough to put anyone in a good mood.
The friendliness of a Corgi is not limited to humans; it also extends to other canines and animals in general, and this small dog can be such a cuddle bug!
Due to their high level of activity, these dogs are an excellent option for owners who want to supplement the emotional support they provide with increased physical fitness. You should know that you’ll be contributing to the channeling of your Corgi’s energy!
The Corgi is also on our list of best small dog breeds for seniors and retirees.
Best Small Emotional Support Dogs
So, what are the best small emotional support dogs? Our list gives you six great choices for the best small dogs for emotional support. Whichever one you choose will be a great small dog for your needs.
When you do get your emotional support dog, be sure to pick up emotional support dog gear like vests and ID tags.
Also please consider being a dog foster parent. See my article on How to Be a Foster Parent for Dogs for details.
As always, it is important to give your dog proper nutrition as part of an important part of a dog’s health along with feeding the recommended amount. Also check out my article on Are Grain Free Diets Bad for Dogs?
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