Companion Dogs for Seniors. How to Choose?

Older people are often afraid to own a dog and take responsibility for it. It seems to them that they will not be able to fully care for, feed and raise the animal. You should not be afraid - there are the most problem-free breeds in keeping.

The ideal companion dog for a senior citizen: what is he like?

Choosing a dog for people over 60-70 years old is not easy. It should be as hassle-free as possible and bring joy to the elderly person. Therefore, many factors are taken into account:

Health

There are breeds that are more prone to pathologies than others: allergies, problems with joints, heart, gastrointestinal tract, etc. It is better to refuse them: an elderly person does not need extra spending on veterinarian services and troubles associated with treatment.

Size

The best dog for seniors is medium to small. It will be difficult for a pensioner to cope with large and giant breeds: the pet will have to be constantly raised in order to bathe, weigh, carry out hygienic or treatment-and-prophylactic procedures, etc. And keeping a Caucasian Shepherd on a leash, intending to chase a cat, is difficult even for a young, physically strong man.

Care

The simpler and cheaper it is, the better. In this regard, smooth-haired dogs are ideal companions for the elderly. Wire-haired breeds and dogs with a medium length coat are more or less suitable. Long-haired pets need to be combed out regularly, to collect wool from carpets and corners. In addition, pets with long hair often need haircuts, and this is an extra cost for grooming.

Character

The ideal companion for a senior is cheerful and companionable, but calm, balanced and unobtrusive. Be sure to choose a dog that is not prone to aggression. In addition, he should treat children well: most grandfathers and grandmothers are not alone, they are regularly visited by grandchildren, who will not hesitate to cuddle the animal.

Activity

The best candidates for the role of a four-legged friend for a pensioner are inactive, somewhat phlegmatic dogs. For this reason, almost all hunting and working dogs disappear - you need to walk and practice a lot with them.

Male or Female

Females are better suited to retirees: they are more affectionate, calmer and more attached to people. And sterilization solves the problem with hypothetical offspring. Males are more independent, more aggressive, often tend to dominate. Yes, and there is more trouble with them: sometimes they leave the owners and run away as soon as they smell the bitch in heat.

With love for your dogs, DogRook!