It used to be perceived that seniors owning a dog was not a good idea. However, it has been discovered that there are many benefits for seniors when it comes to them having a dog. What it comes down to is choosing the right dog for them. Every senior is unique; therefore, there is no “cookie-cutter” solution to selecting a specific breed of dog. But some basic concepts may be applicable.
Common Breeds Good for Seniors
Undoubtedly, with there being so many different types of dog breeds it means that there are some great options available for a senior to choose from for their new companion. Some of the common ones that may be a good choice are:
- Chihuahua
- Poodle
- Pug
- Boston Terrier
- Shih Tzu
There are many more that can be added to this list. At the same time, they may not all be the best choice. For example, the senior who has difficulty seeing may not fare well with a small dog like a chihuahua as there could be a risk of tripping over this little dog.
Best Characteristics
Every dog breed is known for its own unique characteristics. It is worth looking at these when choosing a dog for an older person. Some species are much more active and high strung. These traits may not be ideal for the person who is taking on the care of the dog. Another thing to keep in mind is the limitations of the aged. They need to be able to provide for the necessities of the dog. If the senior is limited in their mobility, they are not going to be able to walk a breed of dog that requires a lot of exercise.
The Age of the Dog
This is another crucial factor to consider. A puppy is a lot of work and may not be ideal for some seniors. At the same time, a dog that is quite old may require a lot of additional attention.