Veterans with Service, Emotional Support, and Companion Dogs: Examining the Relationship Between Demographics, Health Characteristics, and Intensity of Human–Dog Relationships

Dog ownership may be an effective nonpharmacological, rehabilitative approach to improve veterans' mental health and well-being. For three functional types of dogs-service, emotional support, and companion-little is known about the demographic and health characteristics of veterans and the dog types they own. This study examined veteran demographics and health characteristics stratified by functional dog type and intensity of the relationship. A cross-sectional online survey with several reliable/valid health and well-being instruments was administered to veterans with a service, emotional support, or companion dog. A convenience sample of veterans (<i>N</i> = 242) with a mean age of 46.9 (<i>SD</i> = 13.4) participated in this study. There were 143 males, 95 females, and 2 participants with another identity. The majority were white (71%). The Army (48.3%) was the most represented branch. Significant differences were found between veteran health characteristics [suicidal ideation, PTSD, anxiety, and physical well-being based on the functional dog type owned]. Service dog owners had a significantly more intense relationship with their dog. This study provides insight into the role dogs may play in improving mental health and well-being in veterans. To prevent further disability in veterans, clinicians should consider incorporating the right functional dog type in personalized care plans.