Best Dog Breeds For Seniors
There are so many reasons why someone chooses to become a dog owner in later life. In many cases the children have moved on, retirement looms and time is in abundance. There is no question that a dog offers many opportunities to exercise and meet new people, provide a faithful companion and improve mental health. Here, we take a look at the best dog breeds for seniors. Most are small to medium dogs that will fit into any lifestyle, are easily trained, full of fun and will thrive on human affection.
People of retirement age no longer want to hide away at home. We know how important it is to stay healthy and active, how beneficial it is to meet new people and want to expand interests. There are so many advantages to becoming a dog owner with a mature person or couple who have years of freedom in front of them.
Work schedules, children and family commitments are often a thing of the past and this could be the first time in their lives that they can truly enjoy life. So why not do it with a dog by your side?
Dog family holiday accommodation is now more available than ever and cafes and restaurants are becoming much more dog friendly. Dog walking and pet sitting services have increased rapidly, along with doggy daycare where dogs can make friends and play to their hearts content. So there is no need to feel restricted as a senior dog owner, in fact it can open up a world of opportunities.
So often, we hear of loneliness setting in when a person gets older, loses a partner or family move away. A dog makes a lovely companion. They are non-judgmental, affectionate and give unconditional love.
Which dog characteristics are the best for senior people?
Affectionate
Easy to Train
Sociable
Require Moderate Exercise
Adaptable
Love Children
Small to Medium sized
Which dogs have the above characteristics and are the best breeds for seniors?
All the following dog breeds are small enough to fit in with apartment life, not too strong or unruly and known for their affectionate natures.
;
12 Best Dog Breeds For Seniors
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These dogs are incredibly loyal and affectionate. They adore company and get along with children and other dogs well.
Bichon Frise
Bichons have a happy go lucky, sweet character. They are playful and affectionate, but require regular grooming.
Yorkshire Terrier
A true terrier breed with a sensitive, sometimes feisty character. They love to cuddle and enjoy the company of older children. Grooming is essential.
Jack Russell
Jack Russell’s love to be given a job to do. They are energetic, easy to train and can walk for miles.
Shih Tzu
Happy little dogs, they love young children and have a playful character. Grooming is needed for this breed.
Cavapoo
Cavapoos are sweet, playful and affectionate. They have low shedding coats and are adaptable to most households.
Italian Greyhound
Highly intelligent and easy to train. The graceful dogs thrive on company and make great lapdogs.
Japanese Chin
Another companion dog. Japanese Chin’s love to cuddle. They are intelligent, independent, and adaptable to any environment.
West Highland White Terrier
Intelligent and entertaining, perfect family dogs .They are courageous and confident. Westie’s need regular grooming.
Maltese
Maltese love to learn tricks and are affectionate and robust family dogs. They are great watchdogs and require grooming,
Pembrooke Welsh Corgi
Corgi’s fit well into an active lifestyle. They enjoy the company of young children and other dogs. A big dog in a small package.
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzer’s have huge personalities. They enjoy vigorous play and love long walks. Excellent family dogs and good watchdogs.
I have fostered many of the above breeds or owned them as family pets. Of course, every dog is unique and there are exceptions to the above breed characteristics.
In all cases, breeding is important. Do your research and find a reputable breeder, or better still, a rescue dog.
Considering A Larger Dog?
Most large dogs are gentle giants and known for their affectionate natures. However they take up much more room, can be expensive to feed and are much more strong and powerful than a small to medium breed. A large breed will need extensive exercise and plenty of outside space.
Do you have allergies?
A low shedding dog might be for you. In the following post there is a list of hypoallergenic dog breeds which are most suited to people with mild allergies. There are also helpful tips to reduce shedding and which dog breeds to avoid if you suffer from allergies.
Additional Reading
Here are links to information about dog breeds from this site.
2 thoughts on “Best Dog Breeds For Seniors”