Age alone should not be one of the reasons to prevent you from getting a dog. You should also consider your health and lifestyle that are related to how you can take care of a dog. Choose the dog breed that fits your activity level and lifestyle is the key. We have researched and compile a list of Top 5 Dog Breeds for Seniors and Retirees.
Many dogs enjoy their senior pet parents as they do not need to rush to work and come home late almost every day. Dogs can spend much more time with their owners who can devote their golden years with them.
Research has shown that having a dog can lower blood pressure and cholesterol. It helps to raise the levels of dopamine in your brain, and hence improves your mental health. Research also shows that the elderly who have a dog have better self-care.
The dog breeds tend to have low-moderate energy levels that are usually smaller in size. Most sensors have an easy time taking care of smaller, portable and toy breeds. I will introduce you to the following dog breeds that fit most of the seniors and being a wonderful companion for their golden years.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies is a loving and beautiful toy breed that is especially good for the elderly. This beautiful lapdog is quite independent and sometimes overprotective. For seniors that have a chronic illness, they don’t have to worry about their strength of handling a dog. Yorkies are small and easy to handle.
Pomeranian
Pomeranian is a small, lightweight and fluffy dog. Ranging in weight from 7 to 12 pounds. You can easily carry them in your bag. Pom is a lap dog who likes to sleep on your lap and needs lots of attention. This breed is people-pleaser, playful and affectionate. They can be quite noisy sometimes when they meet other dogs. Pom needs regular grooming to maintain a healthy, shiny coat.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu is a popular, gentle, and affectionate dog. Ranging in weight from 9 to 16 pounds, the breed is easy to handle and can carry in a bag. Shih Tzu is mostly quiet and sometimes snoring breed because of its slightly snub-nosed feature. Moderate daily walk and playtime are good enough to maintain a healthy life. Their long, luxurious fur can require some devotion from you. It needs daily grooming and regular pet grooming shop visits to trim their coats. Grooming and petting Shih Tzu can be a therapeutic and calming activity.
Bichon Frise
The white fluffy, joyful Bichon Frise is an excellent companion for seniors. They weigh on average 7 to 12 pounds. Despite their cute looks, they are quite fearless but don’t like to be left alone. As long as you give them enough companionship, moderate exercise is good enough for them to maintain good health. Their fluffy white fur requires daily grooming to make it look best.
Pug
Pugs are well known as charming, adaptable, and excellent temperaments. They are affectionate and eager to please their owners, but a few can become jealous. A healthy pug is playful and energetic but does not need lots of exercises. They should avoid hot temperatures to prevent heatstroke. Pug tend to shed quite a lot, so be aware of your cleaning workload may increase. Pug is classified as a toy breed and they are excellent living in apartments and communities.
These dogs are perfect because they're loyal and loving, yet easy to care for and requiring minimal grooming.
Author: Dan Dan
