Dogs are not the ‘recent’ besties of humans. Instead, they have been around for a while. For ages, they have been considered to be emotional support animals that humans can use for their benefit and keep as companions. They can talk to them about their life problems and rant about their issues. These therapy dogs listen to their human fellows with great patience and provide comfort to them in times of need.
Historically, they have been used for various activities, including herding, hunting, guarding, and detecting. However, for humans, their most prominent role is that of a companion. They can confide in them freely, and they know they will not be judged for their thoughts and opinions.
In times of stress and anxiety, dogs, with their affectionate nature, turn out to be the most loving companions who provide unconditional love and ease the trials of life. Back in the day, even the Chinese emperors had special dogs that would console them in times of stress. Egyptians used trained dogs that would support them emotionally during wartime. Countless stories from ancient times tell us how some popular dog breeds have actually helped humans get through their trials with their support.
In this article, we shall talk about ancient emotional support dog breeds that have been helping humans navigate through tough times with absolute ease.
Ancient Emotional Support Dog Breeds
1. Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is quite an old dog, and its history dates back to around 3,000 years to around 1100 BC. Originating in Tibet, as reported by WebMD, this dog, cherished by the Buddhist monks, is one of the most popular dog breeds among humans.
This Spanial has the capability to deal with the intricate emotions of humans as meticulously as it is able to endure the extreme weather conditions of the harsh mountainous terrain.
Historically, these dogs were gifted to loved ones in Buddhist countries. As a matter of fact, in the old days, they were never bought!
This dog has a strong tendency to build a strong bond with their family members. They are naturally affectionate and love being close to their loved ones.
As therapy dogs, they are calm and gentle. They would listen to their humans for hours and let them be expressive.
With proper training, they are able to showcase exceptional performance and emotional support animals in hospitals, schools, or nurseries.
2. Shih Tzu
This lion-like dog from Tibet is as old as 2,000 years. Originating in Tibet, these dogs were a staple part of the royal palaces. Rather, they were considered sacred in the Ming Dynasty.
They were so valued that Chinese emperors would give them as tribute to their royal guests.
Today, they are phenomenal therapy dogs and are of great help to individuals with mental or emotional disabilities. What really makes them great at this is their gentle and loving temperament. When compared to other pets, they showcase exceptional patience in listening to their beloved humans rant about their personal lives.
This dog is extremely emotionally stable. It is sociable and has the ability to handle new environments and individuals with great ease.
Pettable says if you are looking for a dog that would provide you with companionship and comfort, there is no dog better than this one.
3. Pekingese
Pekingese, dating back to the 8th century, is a phenomenal therapy dog.
Britannica says they were exclusively possessed by the Chinese imperial families. Owing to their small sizes, they were known as “sleeve dogs” as royals could easily carry them in the sleeves of their robes.
Pekingese is popular mainly due to its inherent traits of providing comfort and companionship to humans.
Once you are back from a stress-filled day at work, they’ll offer you a laid-back company, letting you nuzzle them and forget all your worries.
Oh, and let me tell you, they are the best cuddlers!
Their tiny size and passion for cuddling make them the absolute best lap dogs and therapists.
4. Lhasa Apso
Belonging to Tibet, this dog comes from the villages and monasteries and has been used there as an alert watchdog.
What makes this dog calm and composed is its history. It was bred by Buddhist monks in the Himalayan mountains, hence it developed such serenity.
Today, this dog still inherits these qualities and is known for its intelligence, devotion, and alluring personality.
Their calm and gentle nature makes them effective therapy dogs. They tend to be reassuring for people desiring comfort and safety.
If you are someone who’s dealing with emotional distress or stress and going to a licensed mental health professional appears too costly, get yourself a Lhasa Apso, and you’ll see how well it helps you manage your anxieties.
5. Japanese Chin
Japanese Chin’s history dates back 1,100 years. Its ancestry connects it with China or Korea.
What makes this dog so distinct is its phenomenal appearance. The American Kennel Club (AKC) says it has a broad head, a small muzzle, and a silky coat. The coat is rather glossy, giving this dog a refined look.
This lap dog, which also plays the role of a companion dog, is known for its well-behaved nature and obedient personality. These dogs are intelligent and understand when their pet parents are going through a bad phase. Also, as they are eager to please their companions, they would do absolutely anything to cheer them up!
They are low-energy dogs. This is why you don’t need to give them extensive physical activity for physical and mental stimulation.
Phenomenal for human companionship and well-suited for family life, these dogs are surely worth keeping!
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Belonging to the European royalty, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a dog known for its loyalty and affection.
Back in the day, it was King Charles II who made this dog a famous one. He was a well-known admirer of this dog. As a matter of fact, this breed was named after him in honor of his devotion to the dog.
This dog has a calm demeanor. Hence, it has the capacity to sit with you for hours and hear your sob stories.
It is so intelligent that it is specifically trained to be a therapy dog.
In advanced training, they are taught to identify the symptoms of a panic attack. They can tell when an individual is going through an episode of anxiety. It can then provide assistance, which may include grounding, offering comfort, and leading the human companion to a relatively quieter space.
Cavalier Rescue says these dogs really offer comfort to their parents and are also a great fit for owners with mental disabilities.
7. Basenji
Belonging to Africa, the Basenji is a hunting dog known for its strong eyesight, swiftness, and agility.
However, just like it is a fabulous hunting dog, it is an exceptional emotional support animal as well.
They are inquisitive with a great EQ. They will perceive your sadness as soon as they see you and will try to comfort you. At home, they are relaxed, friendly, and very submissive with the members of their family.
Apart from this, their intelligence and perceptive nature make them excellent service dogs as well. Their agility lets them perform specific tasks exceptionally well.
These fiercely loyal dogs are a great choice if you want a great protector for your home that would also guard your feelings and give you support in times of need.
Conclusion
A dog is rightfully man’s best friend! These animals are highly intelligent and can sense the emotions of humans. They’ll react according to the situation and will provide absolute comfort to the human companion. These pets have been humans’ emotional support since ancient times and have been their therapists with absolute efficiency.
