We all know dogs can provide immense love and happiness in our lives. Still, they also do so much more than that—they can help improve overall health and social interaction, which is especially valuable for seniors. However, choosing a dog breed that aligns with your lifestyle and needs is essential. Looking for a furry companion? Let’s explore the best dog breeds for senior living and important factors to consider.
Top Dog Breeds for Seniors
1. Cavapoo
Mixed with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, Cavapoos are a wonderful breed for seniors known for their calm, gentle, and outgoing nature. These curly-haired companions range from small to medium in size, are social, and easily adapt to different living environments. Among their many wonderful traits, they are also hypoallergenic and don’t shed much. According to PetMD, Cavapoos are also known to be generally healthy dogs, which can be attributed to their hybrid breed.
2. Bison Frise
Bison Frise are an excellent choice for seniors and are often described by the American Kennel Club as “exceptional personality dogs.” These small dogs are friendly and social with everyone, making for a wonderful companion. Other charming qualities are that they don’t shed and are easily trainable. Their small size typically make them easy for seniors to manage and enjoy.
3. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs rank among the most suitable breeds for seniors. Their gentle personality and low energy make them a desirable dog to live with, especially for seniors with a less active lifestyle. In addition to their calm demeanor, French Bulldogs thrive in small spaces, according to the American Kennel Club, and make for a pleasant pet, especially in living communities or small homes. They also don’t bark much, compared to other small dogs. Beyond anything else, they are amazing cuddlers and are exceptionally loyal to their owners.
4. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
With their low-maintenance nature, Corgis are known for their adaptability, obedience, and loyalty to their owners, making them a great small house pet, according to the American Kennel Club. They enjoy socializing with other people and pets and are protective and loving companions. Adding to their appeal, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are small, low to the ground, and can be easily trained, making them an excellent fit for seniors.
Overall Care Commitment and Needs
When bringing a dog into your life, it’s not only important to find the right breed, but also helpful to know the level of care you’re committing to and their needs to consider.
1. Exercise and Activity Level
Most dogs require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. This can range from short walks to more engaging play sessions. When looking for low maintenance dogs for seniors, choose breeds whose energy levels align with your own, ensuring you can provide the necessary activity that’s mutually beneficial.
2. Grooming
Grooming needs vary significantly among breeds. While some dogs require regular professional grooming, others only require simple brushing at home. Consider how much time and effort you can dedicate to grooming when selecting a breed and if it’s something that will be maintainable for you.
3. Health
Some dog breeds are more prone to health issues than others, which can impact your ability to care for them. According to a study by Nationwide pet insurance, purebred dogs are almost twice as likely to develop cancer compared to dogs who are not purebred. Boxers rank among the top of the list for the highest risk of cancer.
4. Socialization
For seniors living in assisted living communities, it’s crucial to assess whether the environment is conducive for both you and your dog. A supportive community can significantly enhance the pet ownership experience, creating a nurturing space for both human and animal.
At Cogir Senior Living, the Furtissimo Pet Program goes beyond basic pet policies by integrating animals into all aspects of resident engagement, promoting meaningful interactions between animals and residents. This approach not only improves the lives of the residents but also ensures that dogs have the opportunity to socialize. Engaging with fellow residents and their pets can create a vibrant community atmosphere, encouraging friendships and support that benefit everyone involved.
Embracing Companionship
Ultimately, choosing the best dog breeds for seniors involves careful consideration of the pet’s needs and owner’s lifestyle. By focusing on low-maintenance breeds and understanding the overall care of each, seniors can find their perfect canine companion.
