There is a reason why dogs are referred to as the most loyal animal species on the planet. Throughout history, they have offered the human race more than just companionship but also physical assistance to the handicap.

Dogs can guide people with physical limitations such as problems with their hearing, eyesight, and neurological conditions. Therapy and service dogs for people with epilepsy are among the most common dogs who assist PWDs.

What are Seizure Dogs?

Many call therapy dogs for the epileptic as “seizure dogs” because they are most helpful during a patient’s seizure episode. While it’s not true that seizure dogs can detect a seizure that is about to occur, they can protect their handler as it happens.

Seizure dogs are trained to stay close to the patient, fetch medicine, alert a caretaker, activate emergency call systems, or prevent the patient from walking into a dangerous area when he is having a seizure. These dogs can reassure people with epilepsy who avoid certain activities for fear of having a seizure in public as they can keep their handlers safe during and after a seizure.

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What Breeds Can be Therapy Dogs?

It takes anywhere from six months to two years to train therapy dogs. Below are the top breeds that were chosen to become therapy or service dogs:

1. Labrador Retriever.
   This highly intelligent breed can easily be trained.

2. Poodle.
   Poodles are bred to be companions and they are a low-maintenance breed too.

3. Pomeranian.
   Poms have loads of personality that can keep patients preoccupied for hours.

4. Greyhound.
   This breed is not easily distracted and has a high endurance to provide physical assistance.

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5. French Bulldog.
   The French Bulldog is a smart species that is highly intuitive and can easily pick up on emotions.

Dogs have long been known to give their owners an emotional lift, enabling them to maintain good health. While any dog can become a therapy dog, some breeds are more suited for this. This guide can help people choose the right one for them.

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