The Best Dog Breeds for Seniors
So, you’ve achieved something many people in the workforce dream of — retirement. It’s a whole new chapter in your life, and it doesn’t have one single meaning. It could be the chance to simply relax, enjoy your coffee in the morning and do what you want, when you want. It could also be a time to reinvent yourself, find a new focus in life or even a new form of work. The best part is you get to choose.
Many people choose to add a four-legged companion to their household. Perhaps you held off because you worked too much and didn’t have time. Perhaps now that you’re going to be home more often, you’re ready for a best friend that will keep you active. No matter the reason, many retirees are ready to bring home man’s best friend — a dog. These magical animals offer many physical and mental health benefits. If you want to become part of the 55% of older adults with a pet, you have plenty to look forward to.
Not all dog breeds are created equal, and that’s where the professionals come in. Often, people choose a dog that they believe will suit their lifestyle, only to discover that the opposite is true. This choice makes life challenging for the dog and the owner. Instead, Sit Means Sit Dog Training would like to see you and your new furry family member live happily ever after. Explore the best dog breed for seniors below.
Dog Breed Characteristics That Suit Retirees
Before you decide on a dog, consider what kind of life you want. Ask yourself the following questions to get a better idea of which dog will best suit your new lifestyle:
- Are you going to travel a lot?
- Are you going to be out and about, immersing yourself in your community?
- Are you considering volunteering?
- Are you going to take up new hobbies or classes?
- Would you prefer a quieter life, spending more time at home and focusing on gardening and your grandchildren?
- Do you want your dog to be part of all your activities?
- Would you prefer your dog to be comfortable at home alone until you return?
All dogs have unique personalities. However, breed characteristics can help determine which dog best fits you and your lifestyle. We want to set you and your dog up for success!
The Best Dog Breeds for Retirees: Large Canines
It’s a common misconception that retirees should stick to small dogs. If a large dog is something you desire, there are several breeds that fit the bill. For those who want to stay active and bring their dog with them on adventures, the following breeds have sweet personalities and are always ready to go:
- Black-and-tan or bluetick coonhounds
- Boxers
- Irish and Gordon setters
- German longhaired and shorthaired pointers
- American foxhounds
- American labradors
- Golden retrievers
If you want to be active but also spend time at home, the following breeds are happy to go out on adventures and just as content to stay at home and be a couch potato:
- Bernese mountain dog
- Swiss mountain dog
- Great Dane
- English mastiff
- English labrador
Mastiffs are an ideal choice if you want a big dog and a quiet life. They are more than happy to lay about the house with you.
The Best Dogs for Senior Citizens: Medium-Sized Pups
If you think that size isn’t everything and prefer a medium-sized companion, there are plenty who are up to the job. High-energy breeds for active retirees are an excellent place to start. The following breeds have wonderful dispositions and are always up for an adventure:
- Britanny, springer and water spaniels
- English foxhounds
- Flat-coated retrievers
- Mountain Curs
- Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers (Tollers)
- Standard poodles
- Labradoodles
For a low-energy, medium-sized breed, basset hounds and English bulldogs love to laze around during the day.
The Best Dog Breeds for Seniors: Small and Travel-Sized Dogs
Smaller, travel-sized dogs are often ideal for apartment living. They’re also full of personality. If you want big dog energy in a small package, French bulldogs and Jack Russell terriers seldom know how small they are and are always ready to rock! Some other active and lively small-breed dogs who are ready to hit the road and join you on adventures include:
- Boston terriers
- West Highland white terriers
- Papillons
- Schnauzers
- Beagles
- Shih tzus
Here are some low-energy small breeds that are happy to hang around the house with you:
- Corgis
- Havanese
- Cavalier King Charles spaniels
- Maltese terriers
- Brussels griffons
- Toy poodles
- Pugs
- Chihuahuas
How to Choose the Best Dog Breed for You
Different dog breeds have different characteristics. What you want in a dog may be the opposite of someone else’s choice. However, a low-maintenance breed is often the best dog for seniors. Some ideal characteristics for your dog include:
- Moderate to low energy: Moderate- and low-energy dogs are easier to exercise. They only need a short walk daily and are happy to curl up at your feet. In contrast, a high-energy dog could need hours of exercise.
- Easy to train: Some dogs can be more challenging than others. The best dog breeds for retirees are eager to learn and simple to train.
- Simple to groom: Most dog breeds need grooming to keep their coats healthy and manageable. However, you want the grooming process to be straightforward. This means less time brushing and more time enjoying your dog’s company. Depending on the breed, it may also mean less fur on your furniture.
- Manageable size: This is a matter of personal preference. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that large, strong dogs can be more challenging. Smaller breeds are often a better fit — they’re easier to manage and take up less space.
- Affectionate and friendly temperament: Spending quality time with your dog is one of the main reasons we have dogs in the first place. Around 86% of older pet owners say that their pets make them feel loved. Look for a dog breed with a friendly, affectionate temperament. They make it easier to have friends and family around, too.
There is a dog for everyone, and plenty of mixed breeds also need homes. When you make your decision, consider more than aesthetics. Certain breeds are cute and grow up to be gorgeous dogs, but they stop being cute when they eat your couch out of boredom because they are understimulated.
Training is essential for any dog owner, no matter what kind of dog you get or what phase of life you are in. A good obedience foundation leads to a happy life for the pup and their owner.
Dog Breeds Better Suited to Experienced Handlers
Certain powerful dog breeds are less than ideal for most people, including retirees. You want to relax and enjoy the next phase of your life, and these breeds need a strong, competent handler willing to dedicate a lot of time and energy to them. Some higher-drive working breeds and guardian breeds best suited to experienced owners include the following:
- German shepherds
- Rottweilers
- Dobermans
- Dogo Argentinos
- Cane corsos
- Boerbels
- Belgian Malinois
- Dutch shepherds
- Border collies
- Red or blue heelers
- Cattle dogs
- Catahoulas
- Alaskan and Siberian huskies
- Alaskan Malamutes
- American Bullies
- Pitbull terrier
- American and English Staffordshire terriers
Keep in mind that there are exceptions to every rule — many people describe these dogs as being exceptional family dogs. When they’re with the right people and trained correctly, they’re all awesome dogs. However, unless you plan to spend the majority of your retirement devoted to your dog, there are breeds better suited to your lifestyle.
Train Your Dog the Right Way With Sit Means Sit Dog Training
The best dogs for retirees are manageable, affectionate and, most importantly, well-trained. At Sit Means Sit Dog Training in Elkton, we offer a range of dog training programs to suit every dog and every owner. We don’t train husbands, wives or kids, but we are the experts in training dogs!
We understand that dogs are different, so our training methods focus on freedom. We give you the freedom to carry on and live your life while we take care of your dog’s training. Our training is collaborative, and we ensure you have the knowledge to continue at home after every lesson. Sit Means Sit has professional and qualified trainers that are here to help no matter what dog breed you choose. Book a free consultation and start living with freedom today!
