Can an Australian Shepherd Be an Emotional Support Dog?

Last Updated on April 26, 2024

Are you considering an emotional support animal (ESA) to help manage anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges? Australian Shepherds can be fantastic companions, offering loyalty, affection, and a reason to get active. But are they the right fit for your needs?

Can an Australian shepherd be an emotional support dog? The present evidence says yes, they certainly can.

This guide explores the temperament of Australian Shepherds and how they can specifically benefit those seeking emotional support.

What is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)?

An ESA is a dog (or sometimes another animal) that provides emotional support to a person with a diagnosed mental health condition. Unlike service animals, ESAs are not specially trained to perform tasks. However, their presence can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other conditions, improving a person’s overall well-being.

You will need a letter from a licensed mental health professional, such as a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist, to qualify for an ESA. These professionals will assess your situation and determine if an ESA would be beneficial.

Can an Australian shepherd be an emotional support dog? This will be dealt with just below.

Benefits of an Australian Shepherd ESA

• Unwavering Companionship: Australian Shepherds are known for their devotion to their owners. They crave cuddles and playtime and provide constant love and companionship. This social interaction can be incredibly therapeutic for people struggling with loneliness or isolation.
• Natural Mood Boosters: Their energetic nature can be a huge perk. Daily walks or playtime with your Australian Shepherd ESA can become a built-in stress reliever and a way to boost your mood. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-lifting and anxiety-reducing properties.
• Highly Attuned to Emotions: These dogs are highly attuned to their owner’s emotions. They can offer comfort and support during difficult times. This emotional sensitivity can be incredibly beneficial for those struggling with anxiety or depression.
• Loyal Protectors: Australian Shepherds have solid protective instincts, providing their owners with an extra sense of security. This can be especially helpful for people with anxiety disorders or those who live alone.

Are Australian Shepherds Affectionate?

Are Australian shepherds affectionate? In simple terms, Australian shepherds are some of the most affectionate dog breeds you can come across. These dogs yearn to be cuddled by their owners and will love to play with them whenever possible.

Aussie Shepherds are something that only makes them even better when utilised as an ESA (Emotional Support Dog); Aussies should only be done after prior consultation with a psychiatrist.

Can an Australian shepherd be an emotional support dog? Yes, if you are looking for the most adorable and affectionate dog who may help you get through a bad day, then an Australian shepherd should be your first choice!

Can an Australian Shepherd Be an Emotional Support Dog?

Can an Australian shepherd be an emotional support dog, and are they emotional support companions? Yes, these dogs are the type who will stick with their owners rather than try to leave them without reason. You can expect these loyal dog breeds to stay by your side and even protect you as a watchdog.

Australian shepherds have many tidbits to their personality and temperament; as they are highly energetic, a person will generally get less time to worry about their troubles when they are forced to play with their happy dog. Getting yourself engaged in your Australian shepherd’s activities isn’t hard at all; on the contrary, you will see yourself getting busy with them far too often!

What Makes an Australian Shepherd a Good Emotional Support Dog?

There are several unique qualities of Australian shepherds that make them excellent emotional support dogs; some of them are:

• They are cuddly by nature:Despite their size, they will often come at you with all their force to try and have you cuddle with them; if not, you will have to prepare yourself for some of that dog saliva on you.
• They are energetic: An Australian shepherd does not require special attention to try and make them energetic, for they are such by nature. If you are looking for a highly active dog, an Australian shepherd won’t disappoint.
• They are emotionally responsive: As dogs are emotionally connected to their owners, an Australian shepherd is of calm temperament and even more affectionate than other dogs. They will try to make you happy as much as possible if you feel down and lonely.

Can an Australian shepherd be an emotional support dog? They certainly can be! These are just some ways an Australian shepherd can work to ensure the owner remains happy.

Important Considerations Before Getting an Australian Shepherd ESA

• Training for Public Places: While naturally loving, proper training is crucial for any ESA, especially for public places. They should be well-behaved and socialised to ensure a smooth experience for you and your furry companion.
• Matching Your Activity Level: Australian Shepherds are high-energy dogs. Make sure your lifestyle can accommodate their need for exercise and playtime. Owning an ESA shouldn’t become a burden – it should be a source of support and joy.

Conclusion

Can an Australian shepherd be an emotional support dog? While Australian shepherds, by nature, are active and watchful dogs, they certainly can be far too energetic for some owners. But this very nature of the dog breeds makes them the perfect emotional support dog.

If you are the type of person suffering from depression due to monetary or familial issues, then an emotional support dog like an Australian shepherd will do wonders to try and alleviate your anxiety.