Dogs have been our loyal companions for centuries, bringing joy, warmth, and companionship into our lives. However, not all dog breeds are the same when it comes to their emotional needs. Some breeds are more emotionally sensitive and require constant love and attention to truly thrive. Understanding these breeds and their unique needs can help you foster a nurturing environment for them. Below, we explore 15 emotionally sensitive dog breeds that need your constant love and attention.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They thrive in environments where they can be close to their human companions. These dogs are often referred to as “lap dogs” because they love to snuggle and be petted. If left alone for extended periods, they may become anxious or depressed. They do best in homes where someone is around most of the time. Their large, soulful eyes seem to mirror their emotions, making it crucial for owners to be attentive to their needs. Regular playtime and cuddles are essential to keep them happy and healthy.
Border Collie

Border Collies are not only one of the most intelligent breeds but also one of the most emotionally sensitive. They are highly intuitive and can pick up on their owner’s emotions quickly. This breed requires a lot of mental stimulation and physical exercise to prevent boredom and anxiety. Owners must be prepared to engage them in activities such as agility training or interactive play. Border Collies form strong bonds with their families and often become distressed if left alone for too long. Providing them with companionship and attention is vital for their emotional well-being.
Chihuahua
Despite their small size, Chihuahuas have big personalities and even bigger emotional needs. They are fiercely loyal and often become attached to one person in the household. Chihuahuas are prone to separation anxiety and may become destructive if they feel neglected. They thrive in environments where they receive ample love and attention. Regular socialization and mental stimulation are crucial to prevent behavioral issues. Their sensitive nature makes them excellent companions for individuals who can dedicate time to nurturing their emotional needs.
Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are elegant and graceful dogs with a sensitive disposition. They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, often seeking comfort from their human companions. This breed is prone to anxiety and can become easily stressed in chaotic environments. They require a calm and loving atmosphere to feel secure. Regular gentle walks and cuddle sessions are essential for their emotional well-being. Italian Greyhounds are sensitive to their owner’s emotions and thrive when they receive consistent love and attention.
Papillon

Papillons are small dogs with a big heart and a need for constant companionship. They are highly social and enjoy being involved in family activities. Papillons can become anxious if left alone for long periods, leading to destructive behavior. They thrive in homes where they receive regular interaction and mental stimulation. This breed is known for its intelligence and can excel in activities such as obedience training and agility. Papillons form strong bonds with their owners and require a loving environment to flourish.
American Eskimo Dog

American Eskimo Dogs are friendly and affectionate companions that thrive on human interaction. They are highly social and enjoy being part of family activities. This breed is prone to separation anxiety and can become depressed if left alone for extended periods. Regular exercise and playtime are essential to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. American Eskimo Dogs form strong bonds with their families and require a nurturing environment to feel secure. Their sensitive nature makes them excellent companions for individuals who can provide them with the love and attention they crave.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and intelligence, but they also have a sensitive side. They are highly intuitive and can pick up on their owner’s emotions quickly. This breed requires regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety. German Shepherds thrive in environments where they receive consistent love and attention. They form strong bonds with their families and often become protective of their loved ones. Providing them with companionship and engaging activities is vital for their emotional well-being.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are affectionate and loving dogs that thrive on human companionship. They are known for their gentle nature and enjoy being pampered. This breed is prone to separation anxiety and may become anxious if left alone for long periods. Shih Tzus require a calm and loving environment to feel secure. Regular grooming and cuddle sessions are essential for their emotional well-being. They form strong bonds with their owners and are happiest when they receive ample love and attention.
Havanese
Havanese dogs are cheerful and social companions that thrive in the company of their human family. They are highly affectionate and enjoy being involved in family activities. This breed is prone to separation anxiety and may become distressed if left alone for extended periods. Havanese dogs require regular interaction and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety. They form strong bonds with their families and are happiest in environments where they receive consistent love and attention. Their playful nature makes them excellent companions for individuals who can dedicate time to nurturing their emotional needs.
English Bulldog

English Bulldogs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They thrive in environments where they can be close to their human companions. This breed is prone to separation anxiety and may become depressed if left alone for extended periods. English Bulldogs require a calm and loving atmosphere to feel secure. Regular playtime and cuddle sessions are essential for their emotional well-being. They form strong bonds with their families and are happiest when they receive ample love and attention.
Pekingese

Pekingese are charming and regal dogs with a need for constant companionship. They are fiercely loyal and often become attached to one person in the household. Pekingese can become anxious if left alone for long periods, leading to destructive behavior. They thrive in homes where they receive regular interaction and mental stimulation. This breed is known for its intelligence and can excel in activities such as obedience training. Pekingese form strong bonds with their owners and require a loving environment to flourish.
Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are spirited and affectionate dogs that thrive on human interaction. They are highly social and enjoy being part of family activities. This breed is prone to separation anxiety and can become depressed if left alone for extended periods. Regular exercise and playtime are essential to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Miniature Schnauzers form strong bonds with their families and require a nurturing environment to feel secure. Their sensitive nature makes them excellent companions for individuals who can provide them with the love and attention they crave.
Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, but they also have a sensitive side. They thrive in environments where they receive consistent love and attention. This breed requires regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety. Labrador Retrievers form strong bonds with their families and often become protective of their loved ones. Providing them with companionship and engaging activities is vital for their emotional well-being. Their playful nature makes them excellent companions for individuals who can dedicate time to nurturing their emotional needs.
Maltese

Maltese dogs are gentle and affectionate companions that thrive on human interaction. They are highly social and enjoy being involved in family activities. This breed is prone to separation anxiety and can become distressed if left alone for extended periods. Maltese dogs require regular interaction and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety. They form strong bonds with their families and are happiest in environments where they receive consistent love and attention. Their playful nature makes them excellent companions for individuals who can dedicate time to nurturing their emotional needs.
Collie
Collies are known for their loyalty and intelligence, but they also have a sensitive side. They are highly intuitive and can pick up on their owner’s emotions quickly. This breed requires regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety. Collies thrive in environments where they receive consistent love and attention. They form strong bonds with their families and often become protective of their loved ones. Providing them with companionship and engaging activities is vital for their emotional well-being. Their gentle nature makes them excellent companions for individuals who can provide them with the love and attention they crave.


Andrew Alpin from India is the Brand Manager of Doggo digest. Andrew is an experienced content specialist and social media manager with a passion for writing. His forte includes health and wellness, Travel, Animals, and Nature. A nature nomad, Andrew is obsessed with mountains and loves high-altitude trekking. He has been on several Himalayan treks in India including the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.