A recent study by researchers at the University of York found that owning a dog might not reduce the symptoms of severe mental health conditions.
However, survey results and popular opinion both suggest otherwise. The therapeutic qualities of an emotional bond with a pet have been known for decades. For thousands of people across the UK, owning a dog makes them feel mentally healthier.
If you’re thinking of getting a dog to help you feel more motivated and ready to cope with day-to-day life, it’s important to do your research first. Whether you already own a pooch or you’re thinking about adding one to your family, it’s a good idea to learn about therapy dogs.
What are the emotional benefits of therapy dogs?
Firstly, it’s worth knowing that therapy dogs play a different role. Service dogs are trained before they’re paired with someone they can support, who might suffer from a physically limiting illness. Service dogs received rigorous, structured training from a young age.
Therapy dogs, on the other hand, could also be considered ‘comfort dogs’ by their owners. They’re not usually trained to do complex tasks like service dogs, but they’re part of the family. They might still be trained in certain ways to help make life easier, though.
Therapy dogs are raised and kept like any much-loved companion, but they play a vital role in reducing stress and helping their owners cope with the effects of conditions like anxiety and depression. With physical touch and strong companionship, therapy dogs can give us more motivation and boost our serotonin too.
How should I train my therapy dog?
If you’re buying a dog with the intention to use your new best friend as a therapy dog, it’s important to know that you should train it attentively. Before you bring the dog home, you should make sure to find a complete diet, chew-proof toys, and buy high-quality crates for dogs to provide your therapy dog with its own quiet, safe space.
Crate training is almost essential if you’re serious about showing your new dog some boundaries. With the right calm-assertive energy, your dog will naturally recognise you as the pack leader.
But you also need to build the bond between you to ensure that your dog can recognise when you might need some extra comfort. If you have any doubts about how to train or rear your new puppy, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional. And, above all, finding the dog with the right character matters.
Which types of dogs are best suited to be used as therapy dogs?
Technically, any type of dog could step up to the task of being a therapy dog. However, the temperament and demeanour of a dog will determine its ability to work as a therapy dog.
Loyalty, obedience, and an eagerness to please make excellent qualities in a therapy dog. These dogs also need to be naturally affectionate, predictable, and comfortable with physical touch. A few of the most popular breeds to be used as therapy dogs include:
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- Bichon Frise
- Standard Poodle
- German Shepherd
Overview
A therapy dog is likely to boost mental health. From getting outside in the fresh air to finding that unbreakable bond, there are so many benefits to keeping a loving and loyal furry best friend by your side.