Choosing the ideal dog breed for the elderly people. When choosing a dog breed for older people, you should take into account the size of the home, the health status and physical strength of the owner, but also the physical characteristics, personality and requirements of care and grooming of the pet. Some small dogs are great companions for the elderly, as they need nothing more than love and a warm hug. Depending on your breed's preferences, you should choose a dog that fits the lifestyle of the elderly and also consider the size and temperament of the dog, because an elderly person may need a dog, which can be easily managed. The benefits that older people get from dogs The benefits to older people when they have a dog are many. Initially, a dog can be a comforting companion and can bring joy to an elderly person. Studies have shown that the overall well-being of the elderly can be improved when they give and receive love from a four-legged friend. Dogs can offer more than just love. They also offer great health benefits to the elderly. More specifically, research shows that loyal partners can:
Reduce blood pressure
Lower cholesterol levels
Reduce triglyceride levels
Eliminate the feeling of loneliness
They encourage the elderly in activities
They provide a sense of security and protection
Strengthen their social activities
They offer unconditional affection and love
Help lose a loved one
They offer fun and entertainment
Reduce the feeling of isolation
Dilemma: Adopt / buy an older dog or puppy? The decision to choose an older dog over a puppy is quite important for an older owner. A puppy requires time, energy and training, while an adult pet that is fully developed is usually trained and can behave better. Be aware that there are many adult purebred or half-breed dogs waiting to be adopted and you may already be aware of some organisms or shelters for animals that have older dogs. Go see them and get to know them up close to understand how wonderful pets they can become! In general, small dogs tend to be better companions, as they require less exercise, have lower levels of activity, and are very adaptable inside an apartment. Note: Attention! You should always keep in mind that if you buy or adopt a small and dark dog there may be a problem with the older owner, because if he has poor eyesight, he may not see it clearly and there is a risk of stumbling on it. In dog shelters and stray dogs, there are many older dogs that have even spent their entire lives in a cage. Definitely adopting is the best option. Visit such a place, together with the elderly person and with the help of an instructor, you will be able to make the best choice. Below is a list of the best dog breeds ideal for "older children". Remember that there are always exceptions to each breed and that the dog's behavior depends largely on the previous owner or breeder. Spend some time and look carefully at the list of dog breeds ideal for the elderly, which will help you ensure a good and correct choice. Good luck with your search! The ideal dog breeds for the elderly: [the order in which they are listed is random] 1. West Highland White Terrier
Westies make excellent companions and are very easy to handle. At 13 to 20 pounds, the breed is still small, but not as fragile as the Pomeranian or Maltese. The Westie does require grooming one-two times a year. Overall, the Westie is friendly and fairly low-maintenance.
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 10 to 11 inches WEIGHT: 13 to 20 pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Quite compact, although not dainty or not overly muscular; completely white, long rough coat, black eyes and nose
2. Poodle
The poodle is one of the smartest dogs and also among the most popular of all dog breeds. Best of all, you can choose your size. Whether you want the tiny toy poodle, the small miniature poodle, or the larger standard poodle, this dog will be a loyal, affectionate companion. Poodles learn fast and adapt well to all kinds of households. Basic daily walks are enough for most poodles. They do need to be professionally groomed at least three time a year but are otherwise fairly easy to care for.
Breed Overview HEIGHT: Standard: 15 inches; Miniature: 10 to 15 inches; Toy: 10 inches and under WEIGHT: Standard: 45 to 70 pounds; Miniature: 15 to 18 pounds; Toy: 5 to 9 pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Curly, dense single-layer coats that may be one of many solid colors, including white, black, grey, brown, and apricot
3. Pomeranian
Leaning towards a tiny dog? At a weight of 3 to 7 pounds, the Pom is another easy-to-handle pooch that can be carried in your bag. This breed is an affectionate and happy companion. Your Pom will like snoozing in your lap and playing with toys. Most of all, this breed will enjoy your companionship.
Breed Overview HEIGHT: 6 to 7 inches WEIGHT: 3 to 7 pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Double-coated, long-haired miniature spitz breed with pointy, erect ears and curled tail
4.Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is another popular small dog. Ranging in weight from 9 to 16 pounds, the breed is easy to handle. Though the Shih Tzu has a bit of a stubborn streak, most can be trained without too much trouble. Daily walks and periodic grooming are both important for this breed. The Shih Tzu is somewhat prone to skin issues and brachycephalic syndrome, but to a lesser degree than that of the French bulldog.
Breed Overview HEIGHT: 8 to 11 inches WEIGHT: 9 to 16 pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Small but sturdy dog with a lush, long, double hair coat and short "smooshed" face appearance
5. Corgi
If you want a small to medium dog that makes a great companion, the corgi might be for you. Weighing 24 to 30 pounds, this breed is still small enough for most people to handle. Corgis are smart and fairly easy to train. They are also quite adorable with those short little legs. A herding dog by nature, your corgi will need routine exercise, but daily walks will often be enough. The corgi has minimal grooming needs, which can be very convenient.
Breed Overview HEIGHT: 10 to 12 inches WEIGHT: 24 to 30 pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Short stature and sturdy build with a low-set body, large erect, pointy ears, and a stubby tail
6. Bichon Frise
The fluffy little bichon frise is a joyful and affectionate dog that makes an excellent companion. With an average weight of about 7 to 12 pounds, this small breed is extremely easy to handle for most people. Bichons are also relatively simple to train. The bichon will need to be groomed periodically but is otherwise fairly low-maintenance.Moderate daily exercise is usually enough to keep the bichon healthy and happy as long as it has your companionship.
Breed Overview HEIGHT: 9 to 12 inches WEIGHT: 7 to 12 pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Fluffy and curly white hair
7. Maltese
Much like the bichon, the Maltese is the quintessential little white lap dog. This breed enjoys spending time in its owner's lap and going on short, easy walks. Grooming needs are also like the bichon: Trips to a professional groomer will keep the breed maintained. The Maltese is also fairly easy to train. At a weight of only 4 to 7 pounds, this dog is very easy to handle. You can even carry it around in your bag.
Breed Overview HEIGHT: 8 to 10 inches WEIGHT: 4 to 7 pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Dark, alert eyes are shrouded by white fur that is naturally long and silky; single-layer coat without an undercoat
8. French Bulldog
It's almost impossible to be sad around the happy Frenchie. French bulldogs are among the most cheerful of all dog breeds. They are compact, muscular, and active dogs. However, at about 19 to 28 pounds, they are still very manageable. Although they have a good deal of energy, they tend to lack endurance. Therefore, moderate daily exercise is usually just right for this breed. Their grooming needs are fairly minimal, but be aware of health concerns like brachycephalic syndrome and various skin issues.
Breed Overview HEIGHT: 11 to 13 inches WEIGHT: 19 to 28 pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Sturdy, compact dog breed with a large head, short snout, and bat-like ears
9. Cavalier
The Cavalier is a beloved puppy-like spaniel that is affectionate and adaptable. This is a small dog that is often happiest when snuggled up beside its owner. This breed typically weighs about 11 to 18 pounds and is easy to handle and train. The Cavalier has some grooming needs, such as regular hair brushing, ear cleaning, and possibly the occasional trip to a groomer. Overall, Cavaliers are favored among those who love small, snuggle companions and are well-suited for apartment living.
Breed Overview HEIGHT: 12 to 13 inches WEIGHT: 13 to 18 pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Medium-length silky, wavy coat; adults have feathering on their ears, chest, legs, feet, and tail
10. Greyhound
How can a racing dog be good for older adults? You may be surprised to learn that greyhounds are not the high-energy dogs many think they are. They are usually very responsive to training and therefore easy to handle, even though most weight about 60 to 80 pounds. If you like larger dogs but worry about being able to handle one, the greyhound is a breed to consider. The hard truth is that, usually, greyhounds as longer they don't run as racers and not offer money to their bosses, if they don't kill them, they give them to animal welfare organizations, forcing them to live in very bad conditions. Take a look at animal shelter's, to save a greyhound! Breed Overview HEIGHT: 25 to 30 inches WEIGHT: 60 to 80 pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Long legs and narrow, his head is long and usually the tail is below the legs
Francesca Dalesio
KIKA Dog walking services
Zurich
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