What Types of Dogs Are Emotionally Sensitive?

Throughout history dogs evolved based on man's influence, creating a variety of breeds. While working dogs and guard dogs tend to be brave to perform their tasks, some breeds are more emotionally sensitive. Dogs bred for companionship are often emotionally sensitive and require a gentle hand. Many racing dogs are sensitive as this makes them appreciative of the constant human interaction required in their training. Sensitive dogs are great pets for people that provide them with a calm home environment.

  1. Golden Retriever

    • Originally bred to retrieve ducks and other birds shot by hunters, golden retrievers are now also common family pets, due to their sensitive natures. Golden retrievers require human companionship and look to humans for guidance instinctively. These dogs are excellent with children as well as the elderly. Due to their gentle nature, emotional awareness, and intelligence goldens can become guide dogs for the disabled. These dogs also make excellent therapy dogs for children and adults.

    Greyhound

    • Originally bred to hunt in groups with humans, greyhounds are now used as racing dogs for sport. These dogs are bred to race each other around a course, while chasing a mechanical lure that mimics their natural sport, rabbits and small mammals. While greyhounds are athletes, they make excellent pets due to their sensitive nature. Excellent with children due to their gentle personalities, greyhounds require a soft voice and touch -- even when being scolded.

    Sheepfields Akbash Dog

    • Originally from Turkey, Sheepsfields Akbash dogs are sheep herding dogs used to protect sheep from wolves and other predators. These dogs are large and weigh from 75 to 130 pounds, depending on gender; males are larger than females. These white dogs blend in with herds of sheep and bond emotionally with them in order to motivate the dog to protect them. This emotional sensitivity creates a strong human bond, which makes these dogs loyal companions.

    Welsh Springer Spaniel

    • Welsh Springer Spaniels are excellent pets for families with children and other animals due to their sensitive natures. Although they are calm with children, these dogs have a high level of energy and require exercise every day to keep them from becoming anxious or stressed. Welsh Springer Spaniels must be introduced to loud noises, strangers, and animals early in life, or they may never get past their natural fears created by their emotional sensitivity.