Dogs For The Elderly

You may wonder if having a dog when you’re older is a good thing or a bad thing. 
Actually, a dog in the life of an elderly person can bring about many positive things. 

For one thing, the dog can be the ultimate protector and companion should they ever feel afraid or lonely. A dog can also bring some fun and joy into the elderly person’s life as well.

But when it comes to the elderly, not just any dog will do for there are actually quite a few breeds of dogs that are not suitable for a more sedate and mature lifestyle. 
They should look for a breed of dog that may be laid back and gentle as opposed to a hyperactive dog that may do more harm than good to the elderly person’s life. 
In addition, other considerations to keep in mind are the size of the dog as well as the health of the potential owner. 
If an elderly person has a bad case of asthma then choosing a dog with a lot of hair may not be appropriate.
And when it comes to the size of the dog it’s important for the owner to be able to walk the dog without being yanked off their feet or pulled
along at an uncomfortable or dangerous pace.  The temperament and activity levels of the dog must match that of the owner.

Also consider whether the person is healthy enough to take care of the dog. 
If they have mobility issues and cannot really walk the dog or let him out in a fenced yard to take care of business,
or are not able to feed the pet, then they probably should not have a dog.

Studies have shown that the Boston terrier is a good breed of dog to pair with an older person.
Small in size, it is a great companion and good with other pets. A Boston terrier has a short coat of hair so the asthmatic elderly need not worry about too much shedding.
If you are looking for a dog that is attentive and loving while being playful and is easy to train, this may be the dog.

The Affenpinscher is also a small and non-shedding dog that is a joy to be with. Loyal to its owner,
this dog is a good protector of its owner and can be aggressive to those seen as a threat.

For those who may be confined to a wheelchair, the Pekingese would be the ideal companion.
These dogs can adapt to anything and they can play very well inside if the owner cannot make it outdoors.
Although they are not friendly with other dogs or pets, they are easy to train and make very good watchdogs.

When an older person is alone in life, a dog can be a lifesaver.  Dogs can add joy and purpose to those in need, and studies have showed dogs can raise people out of depression.  Owning a dog also gets the owner outside

and amongst others, increasing their opportunity to socialize.  Loving and petting a dog can also be a huge mood lifter and stress reducer.

I have had two Mini Fox Terriers for quite some time (Donny & Midget) and have found them to be great little dogs.
Sadly Donny died recently at the grand old age of 13 or so I estimate he came from the pound so I’m not real sure of his exact age.
The other dog is still OK she has been around since 6 weeks old now at 14 she still fairly active.

I have put a tribute to Donny here

Tags: Affenpinscher, Asthma, Bad Case, Boston Terrier, Breeds Dogs, Breeds Of Dogs, Companion, Dog Match, Elderly Need, Elderly Person, Health, Hyperactive Dog, Laid Back, Mature Lifestyle, Mobility Issues, Pace, Pets, Temperament