Looking for a comforting canine? Golden Retrievers, Greyhounds and Staffordshire Bull Terriers are among the top dog breeds to benefit your mental health, new research has found.
According to a survey conducted by The Kennel Club, 95% of dog owners say that their furry friends help to improve their mental health and wellbeing generally, with a further two in five adding that their dog helps to ease feelings of loneliness. We know that pets are proven to reduce stress and anxiety, but these findings prove just how valuable they truly are.
Unsurprisingly, loveable Labrador Retrievers came out on top, thanks for their energetic and calming energy. “As a firm family favourite, they generally have a fantastic and steady temperament – they are loving and full of personality, great with kids, intelligent and eager to please making them easy to train,” the Kennel Club previously told us.
In second place came Golden Retrievers, followed closely by Maltese dogs and Staffordshire Bull Terriers – a breed who loves company and cuddles.
“Dogs can sometimes be our only reason to get up in the morning. They give us a purpose – they rely on us for food, exercise and love. And just doing these small things and being needed by our four-legged friend can be a lifeline when getting through each day is hard,” the team at The Kennel Club say. “The strong bond we have with our dog has been a lifeline that’s supported us through difficult times, especially in recent years.”
The Kennel Club has shared some suggestions to help you find the perfect therapeutic four-legged friend. Take a look at the full list of breeds below…
1. Labrador Retriver
2. Golden Retriever
3. Maltese
4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
5. Havanese
6. Greyhound
