Best breed to be an assistance dog?

[Madhoney]

My teenage DC needs a dog that can be trained to give her emotional support, deep pressure, support to go out in public places, etc.

We've looked at different breeds and she prefers larger breeds (such as Labrador or Golden Retriever), however someone recommended a working cocker spaniel, too. The labs and GRs are obviously used a lot as assistance dogs, and we're used to big dogs. However, I was wondering if a slightly (but not very much) smaller dog might be better so that it could perhaps sit on her when she needs it out in public.

The priority is that the dog is trainable and keen to be with her, but also not spooked by being out in public places besides her. It will need to be able to settle beside her when she's out.

Any suggestions?

"So more at the 'amazing pet that can learn to do what I want it to do' level."

Fern is beyond amazing, but google the adventures of Mancub and Fern for an example of what a cocker spaniel can be capable of.

in my experience, both labs and GRs have the empathy to assess stress levels

Mine have the ability to raise stress levels 😂

Completely sucked my whole afternoon away! They're quite near to me so I've messaged them.

They tend to wash out because of fairly “normal” dog issues though, like not being able to ignore other dogs or cats or food... or sometimes they’re just not willing to do it, despite all the training.

So it’s not the specific things they have to do that’s the issue, just that they’re not up to it.

So you do need to have some sort of plan in mind for what happens if you end up with a dog not capable of being what you’re after.

I looked into this but the hoops meant it simply wasn't feasible to get certified. Ddog can go most places anyway these days.

Mine too,

The YouTube channel Growing Up Guide Pup is great and despite the name not just about guide dogs