After retirement the routine life of a senior becomes limited. In this situation, the love and companionship of a dog are unmatched in relieving them from stress and feelings of loneliness. In this article, I’ll discuss seven breeds of dogs best suited for seniors and will also explain how dog loyalty and constant companionship can make senior golden years unforgettable.
Introduction
Dogs are dedicated to the sentiments of love, friendship, care, and loyalty that attract people of almost all ages, especially for the people in their golden age. Studies show that the dog’s companion doesn’t only provide unprecedented friendship and permanent companionship but nurturing a dog can help an elder increase mental and physical health, as well as reduce blood pressure, anxiety, and cholesterol.
Many elderly people spend most of their time at home. Since their daily routine is very inactive. Therefore, it is usually easier for them to spend time with their best friend as a pet and form a strong bond with them. However, research has shown that seniors spend most of their time caring for their little pet friends. They have relatively fewer feelings of sadness, loneliness, and anger.
If you are retired and as a senior are planning to own a little dear friend. Then, you must be careful that the breed you choose is in line with your requirements. That is, a dog who is a trusted partner in the form of a friend who is easy to train, which is not difficult to take on the walk, and is slightly smaller to handle.
Characteristics Of Dog Breeds For Seniors
- Low energy: Low-energy dogs are ideal for seniors. Since they require less training, exercise, and light walking. Therefore, it is easier for seniors to manage low-energy dogs and take them on walks with them. Their ability to adapt to flexible schedules makes them travel-friendly. Additionally, these dogs encourage light exercise to maintain flexibility and balance.
- Gentle: As people age, gentle canine companions can bring immense joy and comfort. Gentle dogs provide loving companionship. They help reduce the loneliness and stress of aging. They promote relaxation, calmness, and emotional stability, and also improve mental health and overall well-being.
- Affectionate: Affectionate dogs are the perfect addition to a senior’s life. Their companionship not only relieves the elderly from feelings of loneliness but also plays an important role in making their golden years colorful. They fill the void of loneliness bring a spring of vigor in the autumnal life of a retired person, and brighten each day with their presence.
- Low maintenance / Low grooming needs: Seniors deserve stress-free companionship. In such situations, low-maintenance grooming dogs are ideal for seniors because they offer companionship to those with limited mobility or energy without extensive grooming. Plus, breeds with low shedding coats reduce allergens and dirt. This creates a clean environment for the elderly.
- Quiet: A quiet dog is the perfect companion for those seeking peace relationships. They are a relief for seniors, who don’t like too much noise. However, in the golden years of seniors, quiet dogs’ calm disposition and low appetite don’t disturb their rest and create a relaxed environment.
Benefits Of Having A Dog As A Senior
- Companionship: Dogs provide social interaction, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Emotional support: Dogs offer emotional support, comfort, and stress relief.
- Physical activity: Caring for a dog encourages regular exercise such as walks, and improves overall health.
- Responsibility: Caring for a dog gives seniors a sense of purpose and responsibility.
- Socialization: Dogs help seniors meet new people, and foster social connection.
- Improve mental health: Dogs have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Increase safety; Dogs can serve as a deterrent to potential intruders and improve home safety
7 Best Dog Breeds For People Over 60s – Detail Guide
1. Pomeranian
If you are thinking of getting a small dog as a senior, a pomeranian can be a great choice. The pomeranian has a very friendly and outgoing temperament. They are very attached to their owners. In addition, they are also very intelligent, which makes them easier to train.
In terms of maintenance also, this breed is a good recommendation for seniors, as they only need weekly brushing and nail trimming. The best thing about dogs of this breed is that they are very easy to care for, due to their small size. They are portable, and can easily be taken on a walk or a trip.
Breed Overview
- Origin: Germany/Poland
- Size: Small
- Weight: 3 to 7 Pounds
- Height: 6 to 11 Inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 16 Years
- Group: Toy
2. Poodle
Poodles are not only among the smartest dogs but also among the most popular breeds. The special thing about the size of the poodle is that it comes in three different sizes: toy, small, and standard. Due to their intelligence, poodles are not only quick to train but can also be taught and perform various tasks. In addition, poodles are very adaptable and can adjust to any environment.
Poodles are an ideal breed, in terms of care, as they require little grooming and exercise. Another quality of poodles is that they are very sensitive. They can understand and empathize with their owner’s feelings. Poodles form strong bonds with all members of the household. This quality makes them ideal not only for seniors but for couples also.
Breed Overview
- Origin: Germany/France
- Weight: Toy: 6 to 14 Pounds
- Small: 10 to 15 Pounds
- Standard: 40 to 70 Pounds
- Height: Toy: 10 Inches
- Standard: 15 Inches
- Small: 11 to 14 Inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 Years
- Group: Non-Sporting
3. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
If you are an active senior who loves to walk, Pembroke Welsh corgi can be the perfect companion to enhance your outdoor activity. As Pembroke Welsh corgi are very active and playful that makes them perfect partners for playing and exercising. They are very loyal and dedicated to their owner.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis can adapt to any situation and environment, due to their adjustable and adaptable qualities. However, their abilities help them to deal with various challenges and learn new tasks. Pembroke Welsh corgis also have a strong bark, which makes them effective watchdogs. As they are very intelligent and trainable, you can easily train them according to your needs and temperament. For example, if a Pembroke Welsh corgi’s bark disturbs you, you can also teach them quiet command.
Breed Overview
- Origin: Wales, United Kingdom
- Weight: 25 to 38 Pounds
- Height: 10 to 12 Inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 14 Years
- Group: Herding
4. Maltese
Lapdog can be a good choice for seniors. Because of their small size, and soft and pleasant nature, they love to spend time on their owner’s lap and go for short walks. Maltese’s coat is hypoallergenic, which makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. In addition, their coat is low-shedding which makes their grooming quite easy.
Although Maltese is an intelligent breed, they require a little patience and consistency in training. They need socialization to become comfortable with strangers and a new environment. Maltese may also have suppression anxiety, which can make them stubborn at times. Hence, in such a challenging situation, positive training is helpful.
Breed Overview
- Origin: Malta
- Weight: 4 to 8 Pounds
- Height: 8 to 10 Inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 Years
- Group: Toy
5. French Bulldog
The French bulldog is one of the pleasant nature dog breeds. If you, as a senior, are looking for a dog that will be loving and cheerful to everyone, who comes to your home. Then, the French bulldog can live up to your expectations. As their energy levels are not high, therefore, they need short walks and light exercise.
One of the qualities of the French bulldog is their quiet and calm nature. They bark less as compared to other dogs, which makes them ideal for apartment living. The French Bulldog is a most suitable breed for seniors, in terms of maintenance. Their coat is too short and easy to maintain. Additionally, French Bulldogs make a unique snoring sound that gives them a distinctive feature.
Breed Overview
- Origin: France
- Weight: 16 to 28 Pounds
- Heights: 10 to 12 Inches
- Lifespan: 10 to 12 Years
- Group: Non-Sporting
6. Pug
Pugs are medium-sized dogs with a loving and friendly nature, whose energy level matches the age requirements of an adult. Pugs spend most of their time sleeping, sitting still, playing indoors, hanging around, and showing affection to their owners.
These dogs get along easily with everyone and are ready to play with anyone. Pug requires moderate walking and exercise. It is a calm dog with less barking habits. Pugs need light grooming, so in terms of maintenance also, they prove to be excellent companions for seniors.
Breed Overview
- Origin: China
- Weight: 14 to 17 Pounds
- Height: 10 to 13 Inches
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 Years
- Group: Toy
7. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu is another small-sized dog. It is a dog with a lot of love and attention, who holds a deep attachment to its owner. Shih Tzu enjoys playing with children and other dogs. They are very playful and energetic; this quality makes them an ideal playmate. Apart from that, this breed can easily adapt itself to any environment.
Shih Tzu requires regular grooming to keep its long and silky coat healthy. Moreover, this cute dog can sometimes become stubborn. In that case, you might face a little trouble in training Shih Tzu. So, if you are ready for these minor challenges then congrats to you, for the love and loyalty of Shih Tzu’s companionship.
Breed Overview
- Origin: Tibet/China
- Weight: 9 to 16 Pounds
- Height: 8 to 11 Inches
- Lifespan: 10 to 16 Years
- Group: Toy
Some Worst Dog Breeds For Seniors Over 60
- Australian Shepherd
- Rottweiler
- Labrador Retriever
- Border collie
- Dalmatian
- Akita
- Pitbull Retriever
- Jack Russell Terrier
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog breed as a senior citizen can bring immense joy and companionship to one’s life. The breeds mentioned in this article, such as Pomeranian, Poodle, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Maltese, French Bulldog, Pug, and Shih Tzu, are ideal companions for seniors due to their gentle nature, low-maintenance care, and adaptable personalities.
These provide emotional support, encourage physical activity, and foster social interaction. They are perfect for seniors who want a loyal companion to share their golden years with. With their small size and easy handling, they are suitable for seniors with limited mobility. Their affectionate nature and playful personalities make them a delightful addition to any family. Seniors can benefit greatly from the unconditional love and companionship of these breeds. They bring happiness, comfort, and a sense of responsibility to senior’s lives.
When selecting a breed, consider factors such as energy level, grooming needs, and potential health issues. Consult with breeders, veterinarians, or animal shelters to find the perfect furry companion. Remember, dogs are not just pets, they are family members. They deserve love, care, and attention. By choosing the right breed, seniors can experience the countless benefits of dog ownership. So, find your perfect companion today and enjoy the golden years with a loyal friend by your side.