Dogs, in general, make excellent companions. However, certain breeds have a stronger instinct for providing comfort and emotional support than others. These breeds truly embody what it means to be man’s best friend through their special bond with you. Unlike service dogs, companion dogs don’t necessarily have any formal training or perform a specific task, but their intuitive nature helps them shower you with love and affection. They may be so in tune with you that they can pick up on your stress or sadness and try to calm you down without ever being told to do so. Research shows that their presence can lower stress, reduce blood pressure, help ease loneliness and anxiety, and so many other health benefits. If you’re thinking about adding a companion dog to your life, explore some of the popular breeds above or use our Breed Explorer to find the perfect furry companion for your home!