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.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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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
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Locations
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Hospital Clinic de Barcelona
Barcelona, Barcelona, 08036, Spain