Dogs Suitable For Older People

When older people live with a pet, their self-esteem grows and at the same time negative feelings such as loneliness or distress move away, to name just a few of the benefits of animals on the physical and mental health of these people. However,  when choosing what type of dog to adopt for an elderly person, several factors must be taken into consideration, such as, for example, the age, character and even size of the animal.

Factors to consider

First of all, we must think that the animal must be a company for the elderly, not a burden.

For this reason, the characteristics of the dog must be evaluated based on the state of health of its future owner, especially if the elderly have difficulty moving.

It being understood that it is essential that the new owner undertakes to take care of his new four-legged friend, feeding him and taking him for a walk, we want to give you some tips to keep in mind if you are thinking of adopting a dog for an elderly person.

Choose an adult dog

Even if it is always a good experience to see a puppy grow and educate him, for a person already advanced in years it is much more advisable to choose a dog that is over three years old.

The reason lies in the fact that an adult dog has a more staid character than a puppy and will prevent the elderly from making an extra effort to raise and educate him.

By opting for an adult specimen, you will avoid a series of problems for the elderly, such as:

• that the dog causes material damage of various kinds;

• that he does his business at home;
• crying at night.

Size matters too

Small and medium-sized dogs are the most recommended for older people, especially since they avoid risky falls due to the tugging that the dog can give on the leash, when he goes out for his walk.

With a small dog, it is also avoided that, during a show of affection, the animal jumps on the elderly person and, with its own weight, makes him fall.

Apart from this, we must also remember that with a medium or small dog, accessing some public places or taking a vehicle is much easier.

A good and sociable character

A mild-tempered dog is the most suitable for keeping an elderly person company; then if the animal in question is also a lover of cuddles and fond of its owner, then the combination is perfect.

It is also important that the chosen pet is a dog that is educated to socialize properly, in order to ensure that:

• is not a fearful dog;
• is able to interact with other animals and people;
• does not have a tendency to escape.

The importance of education

It is essential that the dog knows the basic rules of obedience and that he knows how to recognize the following orders:

• Here
• Stopped
• Sitting

Likewise, it  is of fundamental importance that the dog has already learned not to pull the leash during walks, to avoid possible falls of the elderly owner.

If the dog has not been educated, there is always the option of contacting a dog trainer.

Breeds suitable for older people

It is necessary to carefully evaluate the need for exercise that a dog needs before deciding to adopt it. An animal that doesn’t need a lot of physical activity is the best option for older people.

Regarding the breeds that are best suited to an elderly person, in the first place there is undoubtedly the mestizo : in any kennel they will be able to advise you which is the most suitable dog to live with an elderly person.

In any case, we want to give you a list of some of the most suitable breeds for older people:

• Yorkshire Terrier
• Boston Terrier
• Pug
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Shih Tsu
• French Bulldog
• Cocker
• Chihuahua
• Bichon à poil frisé, also known as Bichon Tenerife

Beneficial effects of dogs on old age

Regardless of the type of dog you decide to adopt for an elderly person, think above all of the enormous benefits that the animal will have on its new owner:

• it will increase its vitality and well-being;
• it will keep away the unpleasant sensations of abandonment and loneliness;
• it will help him in personal relationships with others;
• it will help lower his blood pressure;
• it will help him recover more quickly when he gets sick;
• it will lower the levels of anxiety and depression;
• it will favor his good mood;
• it will help him maintain a routine and be more responsible.

There is no doubt that the company of a dog can be the best medicine to spend a peaceful and happy old age.