Havanese are small and hairy dogs. Because they have a longer coat, they need to be brushed frequently to maintain a healthy shine. These dogs dont have pent-up energy they need to expel, but they need regular walks and other exercises to maintain healthy muscles. If you take your time and do a little bit of research, you can make sure and find one of the best dogs for seniors. Snug is a free app that checks in every day to make sure you're okay so even if youre on your own, youre never alone. If you don't mind daily brushing, you can let your pet's glorious mane flow. Make sure you can provide the level of exercise and grooming care required for the dog youre considering. Its also important to consider the age, disposition, and size of the dog youre adopting. Visit shelters, talk to breeders, and consult with veterinarians to gain valuable insights. A study conducted in 2019 revealed that seniors who own dogs walk an average of 22 minutes more per day than those without pets. Previous: Canine Heart Disease - New Study and Information. (In fact, they are frequently used as therapy dogs.) Theyre content to lounge and cuddle with family members. They must be bathed and groomed regularly to keep their curly locks in good condition. Whether youre a senior looking for a furry best friend, or you are trying to help an older adult find some companionship, weve made this guide to help. Today, they make great family pets due to their high intelligence and friendly nature. Remember when we said cat-like? The only drawback? As we get older, its important to find ways to connect. However, adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization can significantly reduce costs. If you . Some dogs need regular brushing and haircuts, while others can simply be bathed every few weeks. Pugs get thick real quick (as anyone with a dwindling metabolism can appreciate), so a healthy diet and regular walks are imperative. Japanese Chins think very highly of themselves, which gives them an irresistible charm. It's important to have a securely fenced yard and supervise these dogs closely. Choosing a dog at any age means being realistic about lifestyle, needs and disposable income. If Malls Are Dying, Why Are We Still So Obsessed with Them? These limitations help to dictate the type of dog that would be best for you at this time. Poodles are affectionate and faithful companion that comes in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy, and each of them is lovely in its own way. Box 2461, Suwanee, GA 30024 Email, State Medicaid Program Contact Information, Activity Calendars For Seniors With Dementia, 23 Best Vacations And Ideas For Seniors With Limited Mobility, Companion Pets For Seniors: How They Benefit Older Adults, Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. Just so you know, the Gerberian Shepsky dog wasnt even bred by accident. They are very curious and love attention, making them a good option for older adults who can give them lots of time and energy. They visit people in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, retirement communities, hospices, rehabilitation centers, and other settings. They are friendly and loyal to their owners. The environmental mastery study found that seniors eager to spend their time traveling felt a greater sense of guilt at having to leave their dog behind. Plus, adult dogs have more even keel temperaments that may better suit seniors. Picture this: you're having an exciting date night at your place. Their small size and hypoallergenic coat make them suitable for seniors with allergies or limited space, and their friendly nature ensures they get along well with people and other pets. While any type of dog can perform this role, Labs, golden retrievers, poodles, pugs, and Cavalier King Charles spaniels often make good emotional support dogs. You are sure to find one that fits your situation. SeniorSafetyAdvice.com is a helpful resource for caregivers and seniors who are aging in place and/or looking to make their home environment as safe and easy as possible. Big dogs also have a higher risk of certain medical conditions including hip dysplasia, so owning a bigger dog may also incur higher vet bills. French bulldogs are becoming some of the most popular dogs for city folks because of their ability to settle into a variety of routines and environments. Service dogs have a long history of assisting older adults with special needs related to blindness and deafness, but these days, they are helping with a much broader range of disabilities. They are great for retired seniors who can spend a lot of time with them. It might come as a surprise, then, that rescued racing greyhounds are calm, quiet, and easy to manage. Poodle. They are definitely an option to consider if you or someone you love needs a low-maintenance pet. Poodle. READ NEXT:25 Most Affordable Low-Cost Dog Breeds, Dog Chomps Its Owners Toe to Save His Life, Dog Park Rules and Regulations: What You Need To Know, Dog Flu to Infect Humans: A Looming Possibility, Poogle Dog Breed Profile (Beagle & Poodle Mix), Pugapoo Dog Breed Profile (Pug & Poodle Mix), Four Dogs Die Due to Meatball Poisoning At French Canine Race, The Kennel Club Celebrates 150th Anniversary with Stunning Dog Art Exhibition, England Bans Electric Collar, Effective in February, 2024. Here are 21 of the best dogs for seniors: The poodle is a remarkably intelligent dog that is easy to train and eager to please. Your activity Level. 7 small dogs that aren't yappy 3 of the best large dog breeds for seniors Therapy, support, and service dogs for seniors Robot dogs: A growing trend How to Choose the Best Dog for an Older Person You can enjoy the many advantages of dog ownership at any age, but it's important to find the right animal. These dogs do well with seniors who livein apartments. TOP #25: Debunking 8 Common Homemade Dog Food Diet Myths, TOP #26: Who Benefits from Homemade Dog Food the Most. Chihuahuas are all about entertainingand napping once the fun is done. They arent needy, but they arent afraid to show affection. Maltese are very small dogs which makes them great lap dogs. The best small companion dog is a matter of personal preference. Most senior citizens who have a dog have almost always have had one in their lives and they know the kind of wonderful companionship and love that they can get from these great pets. Boston terriers are adaptable, friendly, mild-tempered dogs whose favorite activity is sitting peacefully with their owners. Bassett Hounds can be very lazy dogs and great for the person who likes to stay in. On a brisk walk, they might stop to greet as many other dogs and people as they can. There have been incidents where owners have fallen while trying to take care of their pet. Adopting a dog may be the best decision a senior citizen can make. They are sweet, gentle, and loving animals. If youre looking for an empathetic companion dog, look no further than these sensitive darlings. The Maltese is the epitome of elegant, bright, and loving small dogs. They do well in small homes and apartments but require regular exercise or spurts of activity. Theyre great house dogs that dont require a lot of exercise. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are intelligent dogs that have a lot of energy and love pleasing their owners. Grooming is another aspect of dog ownership that can be costly on a fixed income. Weighing in at just four to seven pounds, the tiny Maltese is widely regarded as the quintessential lap dog. In addition, they have a short coat that doesnt require much maintenance outside of the occasional bath. Known as the American Gentleman, Boston Terriers are friendly, intelligent, and adaptable dogs. Dogs help dementia patients by lowering their anxiety and helping them become more interactive. For example, a dog with a thick coat might be more comfortable in cooler climates, while a short-haired breed may be better suited for warmer regions. Basically bred to be a stunning lapdog, the Maltese is ready for long days lounging on the veranda. Maltese shed little, which makes for quick cleanup. DOG BODY LANGUAGE 45 WAYS YOUR DOG IS SECRETLY COMMUNICATING WITH YOU, Parents Are Obsessed with Bluey So I Challenged My Husband to Be More Like the Shows Beloved Dad. While they don't need a lot of outdoor exercise, they do like going for short walks and dashing around the house. Theyre particularly well-suited to city and apartment life, and they dont require much exercise. They are very smart and easily trainable. They also increase physical fitness and reduce anxiety. Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. Spirited but not yappy, Frenchies thrive on plenty of human contact. This program helps ensure that seniors can continue to care for their pets even if they have limited resources. They are happy dogs and love to be the center of attention. Their small size and hypoallergenic coat make them suitable for seniors with allergies or limited space, and their friendly nature ensures they get along well with people and other pets. In fact, former American Animal Another step towards humane dog treatment! Best of all, they love to cuddle and have playful dispositions. Poodles are still a very popularbreed among senior adults, even though many might consider them high maintenance due to their famous haircuts. As long as you get in a little daily exercise and a good brushing, this pup is happy as a clam. The dogs coat can be cut short to minimize grooming, and youll need to bathe dogs with long coats every two weeks and factor in regular grooming sessions. If you don't mind taking a little more time to train, this dog may be the perfect one for you. Some older adults feel more secure with a large dog around that can intimidate unwanted visitors (even though many big dogs are actually gentle giants). Menu About About Janice Small Dog Place Blog Newsletter Site Map Small Dog Types Introduction A-Z Breeds A to M A-Z Breeds N to Z Apartment Dogs Best With Children Teacup Puppies Best Lap Dogs Best for New Owners Best With Seniors 18 Good Dogs for Seniors Who Want or Need a Furry Buddy Choosing a smaller, low-energy breed or even adopting an older dog can help seniors overcome this challenge. I also recommend that you consider the size of the dog that you will adopt. Oozing with loyalty and sass, theyll happily follow you from room to room but wont necessarily come when you call. They can be known to bark a lot, so youll need to consider if that will be a problem where you live.. Pomeranians are a toy breed meaning they are small and easy to pick up and handle. You may want to consider how you can handle a small or large dog and how much experience or resources you have for training., American Kennel Club: AKC Facts and Stats: Seniors., Great Senior Living: 18 Good Dogs for Seniors Who Want or Need a Furry Companion., The American journal of orthopsychiatry: Another breed of serviceanimals: STARS study findings about pet ownership and recovery from serious mental illness.. They also increase physical fitness and reduce anxiety. It may take time for an adopted dog to adjust to its new home. Labs are easily trained and can serve as service dogs. As far as I can tell, there are no studies that back up either claim, so everything I have to share on this topic is based on 16 years of clinical practice experience. For instance, under the Fair Housing Act, emotional support dogs are allowed to live with their owners in housing complexes that don't normally allow pets, provided the owner's doctor has recommended it. Truly an ideal pup for seniors, kids, workaholics, home offices and general companionship. 25+ Best Dogs for Seniors - The Animal Health Foundation Petfinder is an online database that helps prospective pet owners find adoptable dogs (and cats) from shelters and rescue organizations across the United States and Canada. Some of the health benefits of having a pet include: decreased blood pressure, decreased cholesterol and triglyceride levels, decreased feelings of loneliness and increased opportunities for socialization. Affectionately known as Westies in the dog world, these lovable dogs have been owned by celebrities including Cary Grant, Alfred Hitchcock, and Duchess Kate Middleton. Check out the following examples of calm, small dogs that are not yappy: Pugs may be the best small dogs for seniors who would rather cuddle with their pooch in an armchair than take it out hiking every day. Golden retrievers are strong, so when training it is important not to let them pull on the leash., Labrador Retriever. Theyre not the best choice for people who live in hot environments, as they can overheat easily. SeniorSafetyAdvice.com also participates in affiliate programs with HostGator, Clickbank, ShareASale, and other sites. The best dogs for seniors vary depending on the seniors health and preferences. Poodles are very smart and easily trained. Pomeranians can be stubborn but are also trainable. Labradors are one of the most popular breeds in America, so they are readily available and easy to find. , Pug. Chihuahuas can easily be picked up, and their spunky personalities make them a joy to be around. Bichons are a small breed that love a lot of attention and get along well with other pets and children.Their activity level is moderate, and a few short walks are plenty to keep them happy., They dont require a lot of exercise. Papillons have a silly personalities that will entertain their human companions. Their hunting background makes them susceptible to chasing animals, and they do best on a leash or in a fenced area. They need to be in a home with adults that are still active, willing to play and take their dogs for walks. Plus, theyre usually house-trained and socialized. They dont bark a lot, but they do snore. Considered to be a pretty healthy dog, this breed makes a great all-around house pet and is certainly one of the best dogs for seniors. Their grooming needs are minimal, since their short, smooth coat (which resembles a black-and-white tuxedo) is easy to care for. Dogs also make great companions for seniors because they reduce loneliness. Whatever you or your family members prefer, keep the above criteria in mind when choosing a dog breed. Their barking makes them better suited for seniors who live at home rather than those in apartments of living communities. Guide To The Best Dogs For Seniors: Considerations In Picking A Pup The best dogs for seniors to adopt? They dont bark much, making them a good choice for elderly adults who live in assisted living communities. Many will say they are the most pleasant dogs in terms of attitude. These dogs are energetic, sociable animals who love to play. Another cuddly, fluffy white dog, the Bolognese is playful, smart, and easy to train. Obviously, the best type of dog to get for older adults are ones that are the best fit for their personalities, needs and lifestyle. Quite possibly the largest breed on our list is the patient, sweet Great Pyrenees. Low-energy. Pugs require minimal grooming, but you may need to keep wiping the wrinkles on their faces so dirt and dust dont collect. Their intelligence makes them easy to train. If they get enough outdoor exercise, they can be fairly mellow indoors. They are great for older adults who can give them plenty of time and energy. Getting a dog is an excellent way to find companionship and stay active. Theyre ideal for seniors who have a fenced yard, or you can use a long leash on walks to help them exercise. Poms are proud and aren't naturally inclined to take direction from others, but firm, gentle leadership can train them not to be unruly. They are protected by the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and are legally allowed to accompany their human companions on buses and into public buildings like restaurants and stores. Seniors who are completely set in their own ways and refuse to change their daily lives are unlikely to be good candidates forpet ownership. The pug features a distinct snout that makes them prone to snoring, though they dont bark very often. Many seniors favor small dog breeds, which can live 13 to 15 years or longer. Dogs can make great companions for older adults, especially if they live alone. They are playful and social and will make any lonely person's day much brighter. Did you know there are even service dogs for dementia sufferers? They also look like theyre smiling all the time, which is a sign they are eager to please and ready to love. They dont need a lot of exercise and like to spend most of their time napping or with their owner. Service dogs undergo specialized training in order to perform assistance tasks for a person with a disability. [Feeding the dog] gives me something to do, otherwise I would skip a few meals, one study participant told researchers. Breed is actually just one consideration in this equation since each dog is different and there are exceptions to every breed (in fact, past trauma and socialization experience are better indicators of a dogs personality than breed). Partnering up with a Pembroke Welsh Corgi is like choosing a BFF who laughs at your jokes, challenges you to get outside before you watch a fifth episode of Jeopardy and isnt afraid to give you some alone time (because they need it too!). Snug is currently available for iPhone and Android. Matching Pets with Senior Citizens | Petfinder They have squat bodies and short legs, and they typically weigh between 25 and 30 pounds. The Humane Society offers resources and support for pet owners, including tips on responsible pet ownership, disaster preparedness, and help finding low-cost veterinary care. If you have a good size yard for your dog to run around in, theLabrador Retrievermaybe for you. High-maintenance coats can be excellent motivation to get out of the house or a pain in the neck, depending on a seniors lifestyle. Their short fur means brushing can be kept to a minimum. You can choose a specific breed and know its traits. This takes the guesswork out of choosing a dog. Their beautiful white coats dont shed, so theyll need daily brushing and regular grooming. A small breed, they are easy to care for and maintain. One of the main problems that seniors face is loneliness, and pets provide great company. #3. We are not a substitution for any advice from a licensed professional. Plus, theyre surprisingly astute watchdogs. The questions they ask include the following: To take this online questionnaire, go to their website by clicking here. But it starts with assessing the needs and wants of a prospective owner (which might be you or a loved one). Although Bassett Hounds are larger dogs than the above three mentioned, they are still perfect for seniors. Another factor to consider is travel. Pledge to help adopt senior pets! See how the dog responds in different situations, and ask the breeder or rescue worker about the dogs behavior and tendencies. Laid back and calm, they just go with the flow. Environment plays a big role, too. But these elaborate cuts aren't necessary at all. Some breeders may not prioritize the dog's well-being. Yes, they train well, but since theyre bred to be hunters, theyve also got strong independent streaks. Senior pets make great pets. They are intelligent, playful, and gentle. Factors like lifestyle, environment, temperament and grooming needs are crucial when selecting a dog. Provided you have a large yard or open space for them to burn off their energy, they can be very good companions. However, the dogs on this list have been known to gel well with older adults. Theycome in 3 varieties: standard, miniature, and toy. It's true. You can use a ball thrower to make throwing easier and exert less energy. Finding the right dog for your lifestyle will help you both live a happy and healthy life. These playful pups are gentle and friendly.They make great companions and are relatively low maintenance, making them one of the best dog breeds for seniors. But, I think that you should create your own list and the best way to do that is to answer some questions and choose the type of dog that fits the profile that the answers of those questions create. Greyhounds are a bit of a conundrum, but can be ideal big dogs for seniors with ample living space. On average, its weight ranges from 13 to 18 pounds, making it easy for many seniors to pick the dog up if necessary. The announcement was made after a study published last April Pooglethe charming name pretty well sums it up! Grooming is a cinch with their short coats. Bred in the Arctic, they do enjoy colder weather. The best dogs for seniors will depend entirely on how active the future dog owner is, what type of home they live in and their goals when it comes to pet ownership. They can even serve as therapy dogs. Living in an apartment in a large retirement community surrounded by other seniors (many of whom the dog will consider strangers at first) is different than moving into an adult childs suburban home full of grandchildren. Labs are great working dogs and perfect for seniors who have retired to the country. Choosing good dogs, for seniors or anyone else, can be a fun and enriching process. Regular brushings are all the grooming that's required. Stay flexible and adapt to new routines as necessary, such as shorter walks or special diets. Here are three options you may want to consider: Long-legged and slender, greyhounds are the fastest dogs around. Best Dogs For Seniors To Adopt - Senior Safety Advice Poodles come in three sizes: toy, mini, and standard., Pomeranian. Some dogs live longer than others, so you may have to think about who will care for your dog if he or she outlives you. Some older people are more active and prefer larger dog breeds that can run and romp, while seniors with medical conditions may prefer lap dogs that can cuddle on the couch. They are one of the best dogs for seniors because Poodlesare clean dogsand have minimal shedding. Owning a dog will add an additional strain on a new owner's wallet. Generally speaking, I think mixed breed dogs (mutts) tend to be healthier and tougher and tend to live longer than many of the purebreds I see in practice. Despite their long, luxurious coats, they only require a daily brushing. Copyright {2022} {SeniorSafetyAdvice.com}. While large dog breeds can serve as guard dogs and watchdogs, theyre also more likely to knock you over if they get excited. Instead of taking long daily walks, take these dogs to the dog park or another fenced area where they can chase a ball or frisbee. Take a look at thelifelong care costsof a dog breed and calculate whether the new elderly dog owner can cover this. Use the links below or search Snug Safety on your app store to download today! The best dogs for seniors to adopt? All this is to say the ideal dogs for seniors can vary dramatically! Theyre lively dogs that need regular exercise including running and chasing toys such as balls or frisbees. Beagles are active dogs that love to be in the great outdoors. Labs are cheerful and even-tempered, but these big dogs are also highly energetic and require lots of physical exercise (think swimming and playing fetch). Second, check out shelters and rescue groups to get a great pet breed mixes may often have fewer health problems than their purebred counterparts. The weather is still significant in springtime in the Dog flu virus cross-species transmission to humans is now a growing dangerous possibility, experts warned. Youll find tips on what to think about when choosing a dog breed. Another large breed on this list is the Bernese Mountain dog. They do well with small children thanks to their easy-going nature. One of the most delightful ways to experience companionship and a sense of belonging is by adding a furry friend to your life. Note: This questionnaire gives you information on specific breeds. Choosing a Dog Breed. They do best in warm environments, as they dont tolerate cold temperatures well. They should be brushed at least a couple times a week to keep their fluffy coats healthy and shiny. Keep in mind that this dog breed loves to chase things; you'll need a long leash or a fenced yard. They may be wary of strangers and respond only to their favorite human. They are independent and intelligent, so they can become mischievous if theyre hard to train. Snug Safety is currently available for iPhone and Android. You can enjoy the many advantages of dog ownership at any age, but it's important to find the right animal. Filter your search by breed, age, size, and location to find your perfect match. Typically, small dogs require less exercise and are the easiest dog breeds for senior citizens to manage. Like theMaltese, they have long, luxurious coats that you will want to keep trimmed if you do not want the hassle of almost daily brushing. Many older adults look for small, calm dogs that don't bark without a good reason and aren't over-exuberant. Easily the largest breed on this list, the Irish wolfhound is a gentle canine eager to demonstrate his loyalty. They form a strong bond with more than one member of their human families and are one of the best dogs for couples. They love to lounge and sit on your lap, and they require minimal exercise. Theyre gentle, cuddly, and dont bark often, making them a great choice for elderly people in apartments and living communities. These lap dogs also love learning tricks and pleasing their owners. Theyre also incredibly dedicated to their owners. GreatSeniorLiving.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and its partner websites. Senior Pet Adoption - Search for senior dogs and senior cats - Adopt a Pet Perhaps you want a dog thats more active or can offer protection. Whether you're looking for a dog that's big or small, active or sedate (or even robotic), you can find a furry friend that's right for you. It only takes 60 seconds. Adopting a dog from a shelter saves a life and frees up space for more animals in need. To make this relationship between an elderly and a dog the most fruitful and least complicated, it's crucial to pick the right breed and individual dog. 17 Best Dog Breeds for Older Adults - The Spruce Pets Theyre friendly and intelligent but require a significant amount of exercise compared to small dog breeds. While they require large amounts of exercise, theyre also content to be couch potatoes. We've compiled a list of the dogs we'd recommend as the best dogs for seniors, due to their easy maintenance and relatively low energy (for the most part). Links to information on each breed. Golden Years: The 5 Best Companion Dogs for Seniors - Vetstreet Different dog breeds may be more suited to specific climates or environments. Their silky white coat doesn't shed but does require daily brushing and weekly bathing. Embracing local customs and practices related to dog ownership can enhance the experience for seniors and their pets. Service dogs for elderly people can do things like wake owners up, fetch medication, pick up dropped items for owners in wheelchairs, guide owners with impaired vision, and keep owners with dementia from wandering out of the house alone. Their short legs and round body make them cute. These dogs love to snuggle with their people and are highly compatible with other household pets. 16 Best Dogs for Seniors and How They Benefit the Elderly They need regular walks (lots of puppy energy when theyre young) and enjoy nothing more than meeting new friends along the way. Right away, seniors should think about their activity leveland define activity. Seniors who are very active around the house but rarely go out to run errands might consider a playful indoor dog. Because they can soothe anxiety and generate nurturing feelings without having to be walked, fed, or bathed, robot dogs can be excellent companions for seniors. They don't shed, but they do require frequent brushing and grooming.