Can dogs help teens with anxiety and depression? new study says maybe
NCT ID NCT07663916
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether adding dog-assisted therapy to usual care helps teens aged 12-18 with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. 70 teens in a day hospital were randomly assigned to either get dog therapy plus usual care or usual care alone. The therapy involved eight 45-minute sessions with a trained dog. Researchers measured changes in emotional regulation, anxiety, and overall functioning.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- dog-assisted therapy
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a simple, engaging way to help teens in mental health day hospitals feel calmer and more motivated during treatment.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, completed study with only 70 participants, so results may not apply to all teens. The therapy is an add-on, not a standalone treatment.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Hospital Clinic de Barcelona
Barcelona, Barcelona, 08036, Spain
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