Certain dogs are aware of your feelings and can sense them; they do not only sit and fetch. Experts say that specific dog breeds are very good at interpreting what we are feeling. These dogs have emotional responses, and they are able to notice when you feel sad, happy, scared, or stressed.
These dogs not only look at you; they observe your body language and facial expressions and recognize emotions in your voice. These therapy dogs are the best companion dogs. For instance, your Labrador Retriever will lie next to you if you are feeling sad.
In the same way, other dogs respond appropriately according to the specific situation. That is why these dogs are trained as therapy or service dogs. The dog breeds are recognized for their strong feeling of loyalty towards people.
This article covers the dog breeds that are intelligent and have an emotional understanding as well. They not only love you, but they understand you.
Dog Breeds That Understand Human Emotions
These dog breeds are particularly famous for creating a strong bond with their owners’ emotional states. Your voice, your face, and whatever you are doing with your body all give them clues to your feelings, and they respond according to them.
1. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are usually recognized as very sensitive-natured dogs. They possess the unmatched emotional intelligence that adds to their traits. Born to help fishermen and originated as a working dog breed that has done tasks in the Newfoundland farms.
Labrador Retrievers are kind, calm, and intuitive in nature, which makes them popular pets and therapy dogs. As they are observant, Labrador notices slight changes in the body movements and how the stranger is speaking. When the owner feels upset, they stay close to them and poke you to check if you want some comfort.
Kind looks and the desire to please people, Labrador Retrievers are excellent choices as emotional support animals. Many choose them as a guide and a therapy dog, as they are great at sensing people’s stress, anxiety, and sadness.
2. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are kind, caring, and very understanding. Because they are calm and have an affectionate nature. They are wonderful companions that assist in therapy and emotional support services. As Golden Retrievers sense human facial expressions, they touch you and give you support before you have even noticed you need it.
Since they are intelligent and gentle by nature, they are great with people who have suffered traumas or disabilities. Many Golden Retrievers are best suited for therapy work and are used in hospitals and schools, as they easily sense sadness, and when people are troubled, they calm them down.
3. Border Collie
Many people regard Border Collies as very intelligent dogs. Another special quality about them is that they are very sensitive to emotions. Border Collies notice slight changes in someone’s mood or behavior and frequently react in a helpful way.
Border Collies create a strong bond; they need mental and physical stimulation. These dogs are not only pets; they become an integral part of the family.
4. Poodle
Poodles are elegant, smart, and incredibly sensitive and emotionally aware. Poodles are known to form a strong emotional bond with their owners. They are often used in therapy settings because of their hypoallergenic coats and calm, responsive behavior.
These dogs can detect sadness and often stay close, offering comforting gestures and their quiet companionship. They thrive on human connection and prefer routines that keep them close to their family members.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This tiny, emotionally intelligent breed has a heart as big as its expressive eyes. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are lap dogs; they can feel the need for closeness.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was originally bred as a companion dog; it’s only natural that they excel as therapy dogs. If your Cav has a loving, warm temperament and you have the time and dedication to work with him, you’ll have a BFF to keep your worries away.
6. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands’ vigilant nature and enhanced emotional intelligence enable them to react to environmental changes readily. Especially to relieve their human companions from their emotional distress or obtain affection.
Often regarded as a gentle giant with an even larger capacity for emotional understanding. Originally bred as a working dog for water rescues. They are incredibly intuitive, remain calm, and affectionate with children. The silent observer will rest their head into your lap when you are anxious or just sit with you without being asked.
7. Beagle
According to Britannica, Beagles were bred to hunt alongside other dogs. The Beagle is amiable and seldom squabbles with other dogs or pets. It makes both canine and human friends easily. The breed is outgoing, playful, cheerful, adventurous, and gentle, an entertaining companion for people of any age.
When someone is unhappy, Beagles tend to express more affection and start to play. These dogs are ideal for families with youngsters, as they change their ways and respond to family members.
8. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are not only lively but also very alert. Being trained to assist people, as they are capable of recognizing human emotions. These dogs’ ability to understand their owners’ feelings and energy. When you feel enthusiastic, your pet will cheer up and be ready to follow you.
If you feel bored or down, they will accompany you quietly. They are sensitive to tone and body language and will often cuddle up to you if they sense something is wrong.
9. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are seen beside police and the part of service work. These dogs are very loyal companions and understand their handlers’ feelings well. While this dog breed is very good at obeying and guarding, German Shepherds are emotionally sensitive and smart.
These dogs have a protective nature and give a very good response. They are the best service dogs as they do not get flustered in stressful surroundings and offer solid support.
WebMD regards German Shepherds are the world’s leading police, guard, and military dog — and a loving family companion and herder. These traits are dignified due to the emotional intelligence that makes them better to understand not only their owners or handlers, but also to give a quick and desirable response to strangers.
10. Boxer
Boxers have a strong and muscular build and have a goofy personality. They are the gentle breed and have an innate ability to adjust their behaviour according to their owner’s emotions.
According to PDSA, originally, Boxers were bred to be working dogs, which is why they have such high exercise needs and energy to spare! Now they’re known for their kind and clownish natures, which have made them popular family pets.
Conclusion
Dogs are excellent companions that can sense human body language and with their emotional intelligence. Some of the dog breeds excel in it. Regardless of your mood, these highly intelligent dogs are able to tell and react with kindness.
Golden Retrievers, Poodles, and Boxers all create strong bonds and emotional connections with their owners. The fact of reading human body language makes them great companions and exceptional pets.
