Therapy dogs are specially trained dogs that provide emotional support and comfort to individuals in a variety of settings. They can be used to help people of all ages and backgrounds, from seniors in nursing homes to children in schools. Large breed dogs are well-suited to therapy work due to their size, strength, and gentle temperament. In this article, we'll discuss the top 10 large breed therapy dogs and provide information on how to choose the right breed for your needs.

1. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds for therapy work due to their gentle nature, loyalty, and love of people. They are intelligent, easy to train, and excel in a variety of therapy settings. Golden Retrievers are often used in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools to provide comfort and support to patients and residents.

2. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are another popular breed for therapy work due to their friendly nature and ability to form strong bonds with their handlers. They are highly trainable and excel in a variety of settings, from hospitals and nursing homes to schools and libraries.

3. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle nature and calm demeanor, making them a great choice for therapy work. They are well-suited for working with seniors and children due to their size and friendly disposition. Bernese Mountain Dogs also have a thick coat that provides warmth and comfort to those they work with.

4. Great Dane

Great Danes are gentle giants with a calm and patient nature, making them an excellent choice for therapy work. They are often used in hospitals and nursing homes, where their size and strength can provide comfort and support to patients and residents.

5. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are known for their loyalty and gentle nature, making them a great choice for therapy work. They are well-suited for working with seniors and children due to their calm demeanor and large size. Saint Bernards also have a thick coat that provides warmth and comfort to those they work with.

6. Boxer

Boxers are a lively and friendly breed that excel in therapy work due to their energy and enthusiasm. They are often used in schools and libraries to help children feel more confident and engaged in learning. Boxers are also well-suited for working with individuals with disabilities, as they are strong and can provide physical support if needed.

7. Standard Poodle

Standard Poodles are a highly intelligent breed that excel in therapy work due to their ability to form strong bonds with their handlers. They are often used in hospitals and nursing homes, where their calm and gentle demeanor can provide comfort and support to patients and residents. Standard Poodles also have a hypoallergenic coat, making them a good choice for individuals with allergies.

8. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them a great choice for therapy work. They are well-suited for working with seniors and children due to their large size and calm demeanor. Newfoundlands also have a thick coat that provides warmth and comfort to those they work with.

9. Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are a gentle and affectionate breed that excel in therapy work due to their calm and patient nature. They are often used in hospitals and nursing homes, where their large size and strength can provide comfort and support to patients and residents.

10. Rottweiler

Rottweilers are a strong and confident breed that excel in therapy work due to their ability to provide physical support and comfort to individuals in need. They are often used in hospitals and nursing homes, where their size and strength can be especially helpful.

Conclusion

Choosing the right large breed therapy dog can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Whether you're working with children, seniors, or individuals with disabilities, a therapy dog can provide comfort, support, and companionship. When choosing a breed, it's important to consider factors such as temperament, energy level, and size, as well as your own lifestyle and needs. By doing your research and working with a reputable breeder or rescue organization, you can find the perfect large breed therapy dog for your needs.