Top 7 dog breeds that are ideal for elderly people: why it matters which dog you choose
Csupor Erik
2023. October 1 - Photos: Getty Images Hungary
Csupor Erik
2023. October 1 - Photos: Getty Images Hungary
Several studies show that the presence of a dog in a household and daily contact with dogs can have significant health and mental health benefits, making the owner calmer, more balanced and healthier.
This is particularly true for older people who are no longer working. Why? In many cases, the end of active working life has a negative impact on retirees, as it is difficult to adjust almost overnight to a new way of life, which in most cases involves less mobility and sometimes even sleep. This is usually not always easy to cope with. A sudden reduction in activity and exercise can often be a trigger and cause of health problems, and withdrawal and loneliness can cause mental health problems.
The company of a dog next to a pensioner can reduce stress levels, make everyday life more cheerful and there is even research to suggest that they can improve blood pressure levels. In addition, four-legged companions bring a regularity to their owners’ lives, providing a do-able and enjoyable routine to everyday life, such as walks and meeting other dog owners.
Although of course every person has different activity levels and needs in old age, it is also natural that not all dog breeds can be honestly recommended for an elderly person. A 60 kilogramm, hardy shepherd dog, or a bouncy, small-sized Jack Russell Terrier, are not necessarily ideal partners for an elderly person, not to mention the case of a grandchild surprising the grandparents with a Pit Bull Terrier, which we have heard about specifically. We would like to stress again that everyone has a different activity level in retirement, but we will try to show you the 7 breeds that we think are the most suitable for seniors.
A favourite of two English kings, Charles I and Charles II, in the 17th century, this breed is extremely popular with the elderly and their grandchildren, who can resist their large, round eyes and silky fur. Compared to their ancestors, this somewhat over-bred breed has become extremely friendly and people-oriented, and will not shy away from small children, while at the same time requiring only moderate exercise.
Although they are alert dogs, fortunately for the elderly and their neighbours, they are not the most jumpy and noisy of breeds. They are affectionate, typically sociable dogs, always captivating, cheerful, with low exercise and activity requirements.
This small-sized breed with an ancient Chinese heritage can bring real fun and pleasure, as well as a sense of responsibility, to the lives of all older people. Pugs can be stubborn and hard-headed at times, but they are fiercely loyal to their owners, following them everywhere and always open to play and frolic. Their size means that they don’t need much exercise, but they are enthusiastic partners for afternoon naps.
The sad samurai of dogs. Although the Basset Hound is a typical example of how blood turns to water, how a blooded hunter becomes a slightly slowed-down family pet, their current character makes them an ideal partner for an elderly person. They are clingy, patient and their ear and skin size is inversely proportional to their need for exercise.
Almost anything that is French is good, and if you look at the dog world from the point of view of the elderly, well, the French Bulldog is definitely that. Although often stubborn, like a – naturally – French mule, often headstrong, like a French donkey, it loves its owner and is decidedly not fond of being over-exercised. On the sofa next to the owner, he cheers on Paris Saint-Germain, really ideal for older people.
The ancestor of the French Bulldog and descendant of the ancient ancestral bulldogs, still of great working and fighting value, with few of the qualities that once made bulldogs respected and used. Today, he has become perhaps the most typical ‘couch dog’, a somewhat lazy, difficult to train and stubborn dog who can make an excellent companion for a retired person. With one exception: prospective owners who have little or no tolerance for snoring should forget about this breed.
Although this tiny, short-legged breed from Wales once made its living by herding cattle and working hard all day, it has now become a very people-friendly, empathetic and cooperative breed that can be safely recommended for older people. Intelligent, he listens to his owner’s every wish and thought. But a certain amount of exercise is also important for his physical and mental health. With at least one active hour a day, this dog is perhaps the ideal companion for the elderly.
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