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Therapy Is Great, but Have You Tried Venting to Your Dog?

Writer's picture: Contributing WriterContributing Writer
Golden Retriever wearing glasses and a tie sits in an armchair, resembling a therapist. Cozy room with bookshelves, lamps, and tissues.

Therapy is invaluable, but let’s be honest: dogs have a unique way of stepping into the role of unpaid, unlicensed therapists. They listen without interrupting, maintain perfect eye contact, and seem genuinely invested in your rant de jour. It’s not just their adorably tilted heads that make them such great listeners; dogs offer a rare form of nonjudgmental presence.


Humans tend to problem-solve when you vent at them. Dogs don’t. They allow you to spill your thoughts without inserting solutions or anecdotes about how they handled the same situation better. This absence of feedback is oddly liberating. It’s not dismissive. In fact, it’s freeing. You can share raw, unfiltered emotions without worrying about what your dog “thinks” of you.


Scientifically speaking, venting to your dog can reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels. The physical act of speaking aloud can help you process emotions, while your dog’s calm energy encourages you to feel grounded. Of course, this doesn’t replace therapy. Dogs won’t unpack your childhood or help you navigate complex interpersonal dynamics. But for those moments when you just need someone to listen, your furry confidant is ready. All they ask in return is the occasional belly rub.


Fair trade, right?

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