“A dog is the only thing that can mend a crack in your broken heart.”
JUDY DESMOND
Dogs are highly adaptable creatures who can quickly study and master new human-centred social contexts. When it comes to therapy dog training, it is for dogs that have been specially trained to calm and reassure people in stressful situations, such as those found in hospitals, schools, hospices, and retirement communities. The primary purpose of therapy dog training for your pooch is to improve the quality of people's lives by bringing them comfort and joy in times of difficulty through emotional support, reduced stress, and increased positivity.
Most clinics, hospitals, and other care institutions only accept therapy dogs and service dogs due to concerns for the safety of their patients and visitors. The work these dogs undertake is exceptional and crucial.
There are dog breeds that fare better than others in therapy settings. Different people will have different expectations of what a therapy dog is supposed to do, so a wide range of dog breeds could work in this field.
The Yorkshire Terrier, the Corgi, the Pomeranian, the French Bulldog, the Viszla, the Bichon Frise, the Great Dane, etc., are just a few of the many dog breeds that make excellent therapy pets. Here is the information about the top 5 best dog breeds for therapy dog training:
1. Golden Retrieval:
One of the most common breeds of dog kept as a family pet. One common stereotype about Golden Retrievers is that they are the crazy, clumsy dog next door. However, the Golden Retriever makes for an excellent therapy dog if trained from puppyhood on. The golden retriever is beloved by families for its amiable nature, high level of trainability, and ability to get along well with kids. Their intelligence and boundless vitality extend to their fondness for swimming, running, and other forms of exercise in the great outdoors. The Golden Retrieval can sense when you need affection and attention and is always ready to give it to you.
2. Labrador Retriever:
Labrador Retrievers are a popular choice for therapy dogs. They are beautiful, well-mannered, smart, and easy to teach. They're large dogs with uniform coat colors and a serene, strong demeanor. Mostly, these dogs are bred and raised to do certain tasks. With their keen intelligence and eagerness to fit in, Labrador Retrievers are fantastic therapy dogs. They detect when you're not feeling well and require continual adoration and care.
3. Poodle:
Poodles are popular with kids because of their adorable appearance and demeanor, and they are also good at making people happy. They can quickly and easily adjust to any new conditions. Another benefit of the poodle is that it is relatively hypoallergenic. Poodles are fantastic as therapy dogs, and the fact that they come in different sizes is a bonus. The two best canine breeds for therapy animals are toy and standard poodles. The toy poodle is the best option when space is at a premium.
4. Greyhound
Greyhounds are more commonly used for racing than as therapy dogs, but these are known for their calm demeanor and good nature, making them ideal companions in clinical settings. They are like a loving hug from a dog and help those in need. The temperament and level-headedness of greyhounds are unparalleled. They are gentle and quiet around people and enthusiastic about physical activity.
5. Saint Bernard:
Despite earning the nickname "Gentle Giant," this doctor is gentle enough to treat patients of all ages, including those terrified of dogs. This breed is one of a kind, trainable, obedient, loyal, and patient creature. The wonderful dog can help individuals get through tough times by relieving their stress, and these large, fluffy dogs are just too cute to resist a cuddle from a little one.
These wonderful dogs are increasingly widely used as therapy animals and assist their human companions in dealing with difficult situations and feel less alone.