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

Last Updated on February 20, 2022 by Dogs Vets

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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.

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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.

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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.

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9. The Havanese dog breed

The Havanese, as the name suggests, originates from Cuba. Its appearance is eye-catching with a silky curved tail and a long coat. This means frequent brushing and grooming, but this 7 to a 13-pound dog can easily be handled by seniors who enjoy spending time with their pet. Havanese should have supervision over children and other dogs, at least initially.

8. Boston Terrier

Described as friendly, bright, and amusing, the Boston Terrier is ranked 21st on the AKC’s list of 194 dog breeds. Their small size is manageable at the end of a leash, and it takes very little to keep them groomed.

Boston Terriers also do well with children who may visit the household, but they are always happiest with their owners curled up in a favorite chair or on the bed.

Best dog breeds for seniors

7. The Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is very friendly towards little children and other dogs.

It is also friendly to outsiders, yet the dog is very watchful and barks enough that it is considered an effective watchdog. The Miniature Schnauzer is very easy to train with treats, so as with most small dogs, it is wise to supervise these snacks between meals.

6. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a silky coat, melting brown eyes, and surprising strength at the end of a leash. This toy spaniel adapts well to the habits of their owners.

Whether seniors and their families are active or at home, this little dog will be happy by their side.

5. The Dachshund Dog

The Dachshund comes in a few sizes and varieties, none of which are designed for running, jumping, or swimming other dogs. Instead, these dogs know how to attack prey or at least bark at them when they have a chance.

Dachshunds make great companions for seniors who may not enjoy running or jumping but want a loyal dog from a familiar and beloved breed.

4. The Poodle

The Poodle is a breed that comes in miniature or standard sizes. This means they can weigh as little as 10 pounds or up to 50 pounds for a female and 70 pounds for a standard male Poodle.

Their curly coats don’t shed much, although most owners keep their coats clipped. Poodles are described as active, proud, and especially smart. They can adapt to almost any older lifestyle, from active nesters to happily retired homebodies.

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3. The Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers can be excellent companion animals for seniors. The breed has an uncanny knack for lifting spirits, so they can ward off boredom or feelings of isolation. They are also easy to train and have an instinctive desire to please.

Seniors older than 70 should consider an adult Golden Retriever, as these dogs can easily reach 12 years or older and weigh up to 75 pounds – and a large, old dog with mobility issues will be a challenge for most 80-year-olds.

2. The french bulldog

The French Bulldog, also known as a Frenchie, is ideal for seniors looking for a cuddly companion who loves attention. They are also adaptable, smart, and loyal, although they are often stubborn. They can be expensive to purchase, as the mother usually has to deliver by cesarean section.

1. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is related to the Golden, but as the #1 most popular AKC dog, it certainly deserves its own notice.

Labrador is a family favorite dog breed for seniors looking for a loving dog to keep them active, and for grandchildren who need a tolerant dog that can put up with a bit of tail pulling. At up to 70 pounds to a male, the Labrador Retriever has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.

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

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