Dogs are, indeed, man’s best friend. In the age of mental health awareness and advocacy, studies have very clearly shown that dogs can assist significantly. More research has provided that owning a dog improves blood circulation, elevates the good hormones such as serotonin and dopamine, and lowers cholesterol.
According to Kurt Smith, Psy.D., LMFT, LPCC, AFC, “Depression is exhausting to the person suffering from it. Just accomplishing the bare minimum can seem like too much work.” Dog owners will attest that the benefits of having a dog outweigh the cost in time and money. Dogs offer a unique degree of companionship and affection that arguably no other being, human or otherwise, can provide consistently.
“Loneliness is an epidemic, We’re the most socially connected society, yet so many people experience extreme loneliness,” says psychologist Amy Sullivan, PsyD. In the battle for depression, along with other mental health issues, the dogs below have been tested and proven to provide the needed support for individuals by giving love, responsibility, activity, and routine. Read the following discussions on these dogs and see for yourself which dog best fits your personality.
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Although not that big, this dog provides that much needed cuddle time that everybody yearns for. Dubbed as the love sponge and the cuddle bug, this dog has been included in top royal circles for its beauty, elegance, and easygoing personality. These dogs are naturally happy and affectionate.
Challenges that owners of this kind of dog may face are grooming and susceptibility to heart-related ailments.
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Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are a staple in not only the dog industry but also the movie industry. They are your typical all-around, can-do dogs that never back out of any situation or person. They are also known to show an immense capacity to love and are very easily trainable as they are well-behaved. Aside from its loving nature, they are very active and playful.
Challenges that owners of this kind of dog may face are shedding of fur and physical exhaustion due to their need for daily activity.
Pug
Who does not love a dog that naturally looks grumpy day in and day out? Despite their somewhat fixed facial configuration, pugs are delightful, charming, and surprisingly well-mannered, on top of being one of the goofiest dogs in town.
Challenges that owners of this kind of dog may face are cardiovascular issues and lack of physical activity.
Corgi
Corgis lack in size, but they make up for in intuition and guidance. Known as the working dog, Corgis were born leaders of the pack, with a combination of intelligence, curiosity, and eagerness to learn. These dogs can read the feelings of their owner and could adapt accordingly.
Challenges that owners of this kind of dog may face are hip-related concerns and eye health issues.
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Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus, known as a meme online (and rightfully so), is cute, attentive, alert, and active. Shiba Inus are known to be aloof and independent, but are playful and possess a carefree nature. Among all dog classes, this kind of dog is arguably one of the most low-maintenance pets.
Challenges that owners of this kind of dog may face are difficulty in training and knee issues.
Dr. Chantal Gagnon PhD LMHC said, “There are many effective treatments for depression that are available to you when you make the decision to get help for your depression.” One of them is animal therapy, of course. Do you have a pet dog that supports you in your battle against depression? Share with us your experience in the comments!