I’ve collected 67 doggy songs here for you, from the fun and jaunty to the heart-wrenching and sweet, with several comedy songs or skits about dogs mixed in. If you don’t have time, I put my top 10 favorite, most touching/meaningful songs at the top of this list. At least listen to those.

Click this icon in the video above or go here to see the full playlist:

Dogs are good medicine!

I’m a therapist. Clients sometimes ask me for an ESA (Emotional Support Animal) letter for their pet who helps them with their anxiety, depression, stress, and/or trauma. So, what are the therapeutic benefits of having a dog? Here are 12:

Physical Health Benefits

Physical Activity: Owning a dog often leads to increased physical activity through encouraging walking, playing, and exercising together, which can improve fitness, help improve cardiovascular health, maintain a healthy weight, and improve overall well-being.
Lower Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels: Studies have shown that dog owners often have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels compared to non-owners, likely due to the increased physical activity and decreased stress levels associated with dog ownership.
Heart Health: Interacting with a dog, such as petting or playing, can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, which in turn can have a positive effect on heart health by lowering the risk of heart disease and improving overall cardiovascular function.
Immune System Boost: Exposure to pet dander and outdoor elements while walking or playing with a dog may help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of allergies and asthma in children.
Faster Recovery from Illness or Surgery: Studies have shown that pet owners tend to have faster recovery times from illness or surgery compared to non-owners, possibly due to the emotional support and companionship provided by their pets.

Mental and Emotional Health Benefits
Better Mental Health: The physical activity and companionship provided by a dog can have a positive impact on mental health, reducing the risk of depression and anxiety disorders and promoting overall sense of well-being.
Improved Mood and Happiness: Spending time with a dog can trigger the release of endorphins and oxytocin, often referred to as "feel-good" hormones, leading to improved mood, decreased feelings of loneliness, and increased happiness.
Emotional Support & Unconditional Love: Dogs offer companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness and providing comfort during times of stress or sadness. Dogs offer unconditional love and acceptance, providing a source of comfort and support that can enhance overall well-being.
Stress Reduction: Interacting with a dog can lower cortisol levels and reduce stress, promoting relaxation and a sense of calm.
Social Interaction: Dogs can facilitate social interactions, making it easier to meet new people and form connections with others, which can combat feelings of isolation.
Routine and Responsibility: Caring for a dog can provide a sense of purpose and routine, fostering a feeling of accomplishment and boosting self-esteem.
Mental Stimulation: Engaging with a dog through training, play, and companionship can provide mental stimulation, which is beneficial for cognitive health and may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

As you can see, the companionship and interaction with our furry friends can have a profoundly positive impact on our physical, emotional, and mental health.