7 Dog Breeds That Can Help You Lower Your Blood, Say Experts

view original post

Did you know that nearly 120 million Americans have high blood pressure? Because of this, it’s a common health issue in our country. High blood pressure is dangerous because it is linked to serious health complications, like heart disease and strokes. As a result, it’s crucial to do what you can to try to bring your elevated blood pressure back down.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a complicated condition that can be caused by genetics and lifestyle factors. While eating a healthy diet that’s lower in sodium, managing stress, and doing your best to get good sleep can help, the American Heart Association (AHA) also points out that owning a dog can contribute to a lower blood pressure.

Why? Dog ownership can help keep you active and de-stress after a long day, says Catherine Weinberg, MD, a dog owner and cardiologist at Northwell’s Lenox Hill Hospital. “Even just petting a dog can lower your blood pressure and relieve stress,” she says. “Fun walks and playing with your dog can also help lower your blood pressure, keeping your heart healthy and your stress levels low.”

While every breed has the potential to help lower your blood pressure, some are more active and affectionate than others. If you have high blood pressure and are looking to add a canine sidekick to the mix, consider these breeds first.

Related: Want to Live Longer? Get a Dog

7 Dog Breeds That Can Help You Lower Your Blood Pressure

Shih Tzu

A Shih Tzu smiling while outside.

Shih Tzus have a fun and extroverted personality, making them a good helper when it comes to you de-stressing after a tense or schedule-packed day. They’re also high-energy enough to love walks, but not so hyper that you have to constantly be on the go.

Shih Tzus “make great lap dogs, helping owners relax after a long day,” says Amanda Chambers, DVM, a small animal practitioner in Kansas City, MO, and veterinarian contributor to Embrace Pet Insurance. This breed isn’t big on barking, so you can enjoy a quieter household, too.

Breed Stats

Personality: Playful, affectionate, outgoing
Height: 9-10.5 inches
Weight: 9-16 pounds
Lifespan: 10-18 years

German Shorthaired Pointer

Two German short-haired pointers outside.

If you’re looking for an active pet, you’ve found it. German Shorthaired Pointers are high-energy dogs, making them a great companion for regular walks and runs.

“Pointers are an energetic hunting breed,” Chamber says. “They also require a considerable amount of exercise daily. Exercising alongside your Pointer can promote weight loss and improve heart health.” Your Pointer can help motivate you to be more active at baseline, says Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel. “Their need for regular exercise forces their owners to get out and move on a regular basis, ensuring cardiovascular endurance,” she says.

Breed Stats

Personality: Friendly, smart, willing to please
Height: 21-25 inches
Weight: 45-70 pounds
Lifespan: 10-12 years

Border Collie

A Border Collie on the grass.

Another dog breed that can help lower your blood pressure? Border Collies! They are not only sweet, but they are another active breed that loves to be busy. “This herding breed loves to play fetch,” Chambers says. “They require a lot of exercise, which can encourage their owners towards daily physical activity to improve heart health.”

Warner points out that Collies love agility and obedience activities, along with long walks—and this is great exercise for owners, too. “In participating in these activities together, you get routine, and routine is most important to good health behaviors,” she says.

Breed Stats

Personality: Energetic, affectionate, smart
Height: 18-22 inches
Weight: 30-55 pounds
Lifespan: 12-15 years

Bichon Frise

Two cute white dogs on a bench.

Bichon Frises are a perky breed, bringing an easy smile to everyone around them. They’re also a dog breed that can help lower blood pressure as they are affectionate and love cuddling with their owners, helping family members to unwind after a hard day.

“Bichons are like live teddy bears,” Chambers says. “Having an adorable companion at home that depends on you can give a sense of purpose that may encourage owners to take steps towards improving their heart health.” This pup loves regular walks, too.

Breed Stats

Personality: Curious, playful, peppy
Height: 9-11.5 inches
Weight: 12-18 pounds
Lifespan: 14-15 years

Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher smiling outside.

Dobermans can give off an intimidating vibe, but this breed is an excellent and enthusiastic companion. They are also a great dog breed for lowering blood pressure. “Dobermans are a very loyal breed,” Chambers shares. “Having a trusty companion to come home to can lead to a more structured, healthy lifestyle, promoting owner heart health.”

Dobermans are also high-energy pets who are always up for a walk. This breed is highly social and easily trainable, creating plenty of fun for you both.

Breed Stats

Personality: Alert, loyal, fearless
Height: 24-28 inches
Weight: 60-100 pounds
Lifespan: 10-12 years

French Bulldog

A small dog sit next to green plant in an apartment.

The most popular breed in America can be an excellent way to lower your blood pressure, too. Frenchies are playful and compact, making them a great fit for nearly any lifestyle. They’re also highly affectionate, loving to cuddle with their owners.

French Bulldogs aren’t big barkers—so no need to stress over potential noise. And, while they have plenty of energy, they’re not hyperactive. As a result, they’re happy to walk or cuddle pretty much any time.

Breed Stats

Personality: Playful, smart, adaptable
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: Under 28 pounds
Lifespan: 10–12 years

Yorkshire Terrier

A cute Yorkshire terrier on a walk in a park.

Yorkies are known for their affectionate nature, whether it’s with family members, children, or strangers. This breed is highly adaptable and playful, so you can spend hours kicking back together.

Yorkshire Terriers have plenty of energy and love to be active, encouraging their owners to get up and moving. And, when the day’s activity is over, your Yorkie will love cuddling up close to help you both unwind.

Breed Stats

Personality: Affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish
Height: 7-8 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
Lifespan: 11-15 years

Up Next:

Sources:

This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Sep 13, 2025, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.