Vet reveals the top 5 emotionally intelligent dog breeds

Newsweek interviewed Dr. Liza Cahn, a veterinarian, about dog breeds that excel at recognizing and responding to their owner’s emotions.

Emotional intelligence in dogs

Dr. Cahn explained that some dog breeds possess a natural ability to sense feelings like sadness, stress, or happiness in humans. These dogs are often more attuned to their owners' moods and can provide comfort or companionship accordingly.

Top 5 emotionally intelligent breeds

According to Dr. Cahn, the breeds most likely to read and respond to human emotions include:

Golden Retriever: Known for their gentle and empathetic nature.
Labrador Retriever: Highly social and intuitive, often used as therapy dogs.
Border Collie: Very intelligent and responsive to social cues.
Poodle: Sensitive and adaptive to their owner’s emotional state.
German Shepherd: Loyal and protective, they quickly pick up on emotional changes.

Why emotional intelligence matters

Dogs that can interpret human emotions often make better companions, especially for those needing emotional support. They help reduce anxiety and create strong bonds through their responsiveness.

"These breeds have a remarkable ability to sense when their owners need comfort or reassurance," said Dr. Cahn.

Dr. Cahn highlights specific breeds that naturally understand and respond to human feelings, emphasizing their value as empathetic companions and support animals.

Newsweek on MSN — 2025-11-29