Top 10 best dog breeds for Seniors and Retirees + How to care for old dogs

Last Updated on February 20, 2022 by Dogs Vets

The best dog breeds for seniors

Dogsvets.com has compiled a list of the top 10 best dog breeds for seniors. These rankings are based on the American Kennel Club’s 2019 popularity rankings and were selected based on an independent study of dog breed and personality traits.

Dogs provide love and companionship to millions of Americans. Canine companions live in more than 43 million households.

Despite all the benefits that come with owning a furry friend, dogs are a big responsibility.

There are also the expenses of grocery and vet bills, training and playtime, and behavioral and obedience training, which are all factors that might discourage some older adults from making a commitment that can last a decade or more. That’s why it’s a good idea for older adults to consider dog breeds that are compatible with their lifestyle.

See also: Most Popular Dog Breeds in 2021

Questions?

• Are you hoping to travel with a senior dog?
• Do you want to stay active and want a dog that can run long distances and hike?
• Do you want a loving companion that is safe with younger family members?

Since neither dogs nor older adults are one-size-fits-all, Dogsvets.com has compiled this list of dog breed options to take into consideration, whether you have a little yard space, time for obedience training, and can occasionally handle shedding and barking.

Dog breeds are ranked based on the American Kennel Club’s 2021 popularity ratings and were selected based on our independent research of breed characteristics.

 

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These types of dogs can be easily be purchased from a reputable pet breeder or adopted from a local pet shelter or animal rescue.

If you are considering getting a dog but don’t know which breed is right for you, then this article will help you make the right decision.

We have compiled a list of the best dog breeds for seniors and retirees in order to help you decide which one is perfect for your needs.

The life expectancy of most of these breeds is somewhere around 12-15 years.

Tips on How to Care For Your Older or Senior Dog?

Caring for your senior dog

The benefits of having a dog as a pet are well known and documented. However, there are some people who might not be able to have one for various reasons. For example, seniors living in retirement homes or those with disabilities.

Older dogs are often overlooked because they are less active and don’t require as much exercise. But just because they’re not as rambunctious doesn‚t mean that they can’t be well-behaved and happy.

Older dogs need to be taken on walks, given soft beds, pampered with treats, and receive plenty of love and affection.

Senior dogs can be just as loving and friendly as any other type of dog, but they need special care because they live longer than other dogs. Here are a few tips on how to care for your older or senior dog:

• Provide a soft bed for them to sleep in.
  
• Give them a healthy diet that is appropriate for their age.
  
• Walk them on a regular basis; even if it’s just around the block or in the backyard.
  
• Provide plenty of love and affection when you’re spending time with your dog.
  
• Be patient and slow down on task: Elderly dogs need to slow down and take it easy.
  A senior dog’s heart beats about one-third slower than a younger dog’s heart.
  
• Get a slow feeder:  because they will be slower in eating: Senior dogs need to eat slowly because their intestines work more slowly than younger dogs’. If they eat too quickly, they may bloat. A slow feeder can help a dog eat more slowly.

Best dog breeds for seniors

Read on to find out which breeds are the Top 10 best dog breeds for seniors.

10. The Pug

The Pug dog breed is known for its wrinkled face, flat nose, and loud snoring. Seniors looking for a relaxed dog that does not require long daily walks would especially enjoy this breed.

Since ancient times, the Pug has been bred as a lap dog; Since then, “companion” has been added to the job description. Pugs are friendly and very playful, and they do not need a lot of grooming. But watch out for those treats.

See also: Can Dogs Eat Cake? 5 reasons you should not feed your dog with cake

The Top 5 best dog breeds are good for seniors 

Dogs are a great addition to any family. They provide companionship and security, plus they’re fun too! The best dogs for seniors are those that are calm and low-maintenance so they don’t get in the way of the senior’s daily routine.

Some dog breeds are good for seniors because they require less exercise, have shorter hair, or don’t shed as much. These breeds include:

The top 5 best dog breeds are good for seniors 

1) Beagle

2) Bulldog

3) Chihuahua

4) Cocker Spaniel

5) Dachshund

Fact Check

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Reference: herald-review