Just about everyone who owns a dog can tell you about the benefits of dog ownership. Many people own dogs all their lives. Just because we get older and things change doesn’t mean seniors should be denied the opportunity to share their lives and their love with dogs.
So, dogs for seniors? Yes!
As it is, there are studies to show that owning a dog as a pet can actually improve the health and overall wellbeing of seniors. There are many nursing homes, and other senior care facilities that welcome animal visitors, such as pet therapists. There are even facilities that allow their residents to have a dog.
However, it is important for seniors to acknowledge their limitations when it comes to dog ownership. For example, it is usually a challenge for an older person to handle a giant dog breed, or one that requires a lot of grooming care. It may also be difficult to provide sufficient exercise for a dog with high levels of energy. It may be hard for an older person to carry a large dog if their is a need to do so.
For these reasons, factors like size and temperament should be considered when a senior person is thinking about getting a dog. In many cases, a senior should also consider getting a grown dog as opposed to buying a new puppy.
Not to say that a large family dog cannot be one of the good dogs for seniors, but small dogs usually make great pets for older people. Small dogs with shorter coats usually require less grooming maintenance and can be easier to handle than a large dog. Small dogs can also make an excellent lapdog.
Great Dogs For Seniors
- Boston Terrier
- Chihuahua
- Cocker Spaniel
- Pomeranian
- Pug
- Schnauzer
- Scottish Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Toy Poodle
- Yorkshire Terrier
These are just a few of the breeds that generally make good dogs for seniors.
Remember that every dog is an individual and that these are only generalizations. For example, you may meet a Cocker Spaniel who seems to have boundless energy, or a shy Pomeranian. If you are interested in any of these particular dog breeds then try to meet the dog you are interested in, in person.
Observe the dog’s personality and decide if you think it would fit in with your own personality. Consider your own circumstances and decide if she would fit in with your lifestyle.
If you love dogs, you can be certain that there is one waiting for you out there. And don’t let the fact that you may be older stop you from sharing your life with a wonderful dog.
Choosing a Family Dog is a series of articles discussing several things you need to know when deciding to bring a new dog or puppy into your family. Move on to the next article, Mixed Breed Dogs or a Purebred Puppy, or go back to the previous article, Large Family Dogs.
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