Looking for the best hypoallergenic dog breeds for PTSD? You’ve come to the right place! When you’re suffering from PTSD, a dog can be so beneficial for so many reasons. First, you’re loving and caring for another creature, which gives you a purpose. Dogs are fun and help reduce stress, too. Plus, owning a dog helps you get outdoors, even if it’s just for a little bit. A little fresh air every day really can do wonders! Check out our top picks for best hypoallergenic dog breeds for PTSD.
Related: The Incredible Benefits of Therapy Dogs for Autistic Children
Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for PTSD
West Highland White Terrier
Once upon a time, I had a Westie. She was super sweet and playful. She was the perfect size for me, she could sit on my lap, sleep with me in bed and was portable (she traveled a lot in the car with me). The Westie is a smart dog! She might have a small body, but she is pretty sturdy. One thing I could never do was leave her unleashed outside, as a terrier, she would track and chase things. I learned quickly she needed to be leashed or fenced in. I got her from a friend who had both the mom and dad and she herself had 3 kids. The Westie is great with children.
Portuguese Water Dog
A working dog, he was bred to retrieve game that his owner had killed, particularly birds. If you have kids, the Portuguese water dog will make a great family dog! He doesn’t like to be alone, at least not for very long. He is a working dog by nature, so challenge both his mind and body, but he will adapt just fine to apartment living. He is very obedient as well, so training usually goes well!
Airedale Terrier
A neighbor I had at one point had and Airedale Terrier and he was so fun! He thought he was a smaller than he actually was, he is medium sized, but he thought he was a little lap dog. Males can get up to 65 pounds (so not super small!) but that is a lot of pounds to be sitting on your lap! An alert breed, he will let you know when someone is coming to visit, but he is friendly just the same. The Airedale is very smart, so training is fun for everyone. My neighbor had taught him how to pick up his own toys and put them away!
Giant Schnauzer
I love this gentle giant! He comes from Germany (maybe his name gave it away?) Males can get up to 105 pounds, so if you don’t want a large breed, you could look into his smaller versions (standard or even mini). The Giant Schnauzer is a very kind and intelligent creature. He is powerful too, so he might be a good match for you! If you are looking for a loyal dog, you might not find a better companion than the Giant Schnauzer.
Basenji
He is a super cute medium sized dog with short hair. He is very playful and alert. Be prepared for lots of kisses and for him to be near you at all times. The Basenji is a very affectionate dog! He is full of energy and curious, so I wouldn’t leave him alone with free reign of the house. Training him is fun, he is very intelligent and like all dogs loves to please his owner. He will definitely get you outdoors, whether it is for a run, hike or a long walk to get some of his energy out!
I have always felt dogs themselves are such healing creatures. They always seem to know what we need when we need it. They give us someone else to care for, and unconditional love and affection as well. I know that when I am having a bad day, (by no means am I comparing my ‘bad day’ to someone suffering from PTSD) simply petting my dog and having her close immediately makes me feel a little better.
