Which Dogs Are Right for Seniors
There is no reason that Seasoned Citizens should refrain from having the joy and companionship of a dog. Getting older may slow you down -- not me, I've already lived my entire life in the slow lane -- but that doesn't mean you must sacrifice all joy and all happiness and all love. In fact, a number of studies have shown that having a pet of any kind can help seniors to be happier and healthier.
As a matter of fact, nursing homes often encourage animal visitors and pet therapists. Some facilities will even allow your dog to live with you. Recognize that with your status as a Seasoned Citizen come some limitations on what you can do. You may have to acknowledge that you're no longer capable of handling a giant breed of dog, or one that requires a lot of fine-motor skills applied to grooming her. A dog with high energy levels and much need of exercise may be inappropriate for some seniors.
Taking an honest look at your own capabilities will probably narrow down significantly the list of dogs you could adopt. But that doesn't mean that there are no dogs available to you. Size and temperament will be major elements in your choice; but you do still have choices when it comes to your next dog.
You should, perhaps, be looking for a smaller dog -- easier to keep and to exercise -- and one with short hair -- easier to groom. The smaller size dogs also make great lap-dog companions to those who have lost much of their former mobility. Here are a few of the dogs you should carefully consider before your decision is final.
- Schnauzer: Schnauzers are people-friendly. The love the company of people and are typically friendly. Whether you're looking at a Miniature Schnauzer or a Standard, you're looking at a good companion for a senior. They want to please; and they can be fiercely protective of their family. While they aren't hyperactive in any sense, they will require daily exercise. This may be an encouragement to you to undertake greater exercise, too. About four times a year you'll need to take your schnauzer to a professional groomer. The rest of the time, you need only to provide a good, stiff brushing to remove mud or dirt.
- Pug: The Pug is a clown, delighting those around her. She's a small package that hides a big dog with a big, big, big personality. Be prepared to spend time with this loving, playful, affectionate dog; she'll expect you to spend much time enjoying her company. This lap dog is easy to groom, as they are short-coated; but they do shed significantly.
- Cocker Spaniel: The cocker spaniel's sweet personality and great looks make them a popular choice for everyone -- not just seniors. They were for many years the most popular breed in America -- partially of how friendly-but-non-threatening they are. Cockers are a "sporting" breed and will require regular exercise; but a good walk will typically suffice, due to their small size. Their long, curly hair generally calls for regular grooming, which often involves a trim at the local dog grooming shop.
- Chihuahua: There is a good reason -- several good reasons, in fact -- why Chihuahuas have long been a popular breed. They're cute and can be carried with you almost anywhere. Most Chihuahuas seem completely unaware of their size limitations and are quite prepared to face down a much larger dog. Chihuahuas often choose one family member as "their person" and are fiercely loyal to that person. And with a protective Chihuahua as your companion, there's no question that you'll be taken unaware when someone approaches your door. Avoid, the "tea-cup" Chihuahuas and other breeds of that size, as they are more prone to health problems as they age.
- Shih Tzu: This ancient breed from China is friendly, gentle, sturdy, lively, alert, and looks like a king or queen. Some claim that Shih Tzus are the smallest and oldest of the Tibetan holy dogs. Because of their snub-nosed faces, which makes them sensitive to higher temperatures, they do better in a cooler climate or in an air conditioned house. Care is definitely called for when grooming their long, flowing coats.
- Yorkshire Terrier: This dainty-looking dog is much tougher than you would guess; she was initially bred to kill rats! Often found these days as a pampered, loving lap dog, there is still Terrier deep down in her bones; it doesn't take much to get her back into action. She will be an alert, feisty, and (when necessary) fierce companion. There is a bit of a stubborn streak with Yorkies, but they are generally easy to train.
- Scottish Terrier: As you've probably guessed, Scotties come from Scotland. This is a strong, study little dog. As puppies, they are alert, brave, friendly, and playful -- much like Boy Scouts, I guess. Puppies require a firm hand when training them, but don't react well when criticized too harshly. They acquire an impressive amount of dignity as they mature. Given moderate exercise, Scotties usually do well in apartments or small homes.
- Toy Poodle: The toy poodle -- like all poodles -- is a very smart dog. Often more comfortable with their human family than with other dogs, the toy poodle will delight themselves in your pampering arms. This may be just the small dog to dote on during your senior years.
- Pomeranian: These small -- under 10 pounds -- dogs originated in Pomerania, Germany. They've been bred down to a compact size, fuzzy with a fox-like face. These friendly, playful and active dogs are very popular and make fine companions.
- Boston Terrier: One of the few native American breeds, Boston Terriers are usually laid-back and friendly. Their small size does not prevent them from being very protective of their family and a senior can feel more secure with a Boston Terrier as his champion. Their short hair -- white with black, brown or brindle -- is easy to groom. A healthy Boston Terrier should weigh between 10 and 25 pounds.
If you're a senior who's seeking a dog companion, please give thought to these breeds. Each dog is an individual, of course, and there are behavioral variations within any breed. So try to meet and spend some time with any dog you're thinking of acquiring. Give thought to whether your lifestyle will match well with the dog's needs. Good luck in searching for the dog that needs exactly what you have to offer -- and that offers exactly what you need.
