Dogs are wonderful companions for seniors. Dogs give seniors love and companionship and they also encourage seniors to get out of the house and be active. Having a dog can also be a social activity for seniors who take their dogs to the dog park to play with other dogs. Having a dog can do amazing things for a senior parent’s physical and mental health.
If your senior parent has thought about getting a dog but they are worried that they won’t be able to keep up with a dog make sure they know about in-home care for seniors. In-home care can help seniors with many different tasks around the house, including helping take care of a pet.
But it’s important that your senior parent have the right kind of dog. Some breeds are not suitable for seniors because they require a lot of training, a lot of exercise, or a lot veterinary care. Some of the best dog breeds for seniors to own are:
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small dogs that are fantastic companion dogs. They’re known for being affectionate and gentle. They are low-energy and don’t require a lot of exercise. But they do like taking walks with their human companion. They are wonderful with children and seniors because of their extremely gentle nature and love for human companionship.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs, also called Frenchies, are another small dog breed. They are very easygoing and friendly. They are happy with a small yard and daily walks and don’t require long period of exercise. They have short coats that are easy to groom and don’t require clipping or a lot of maintenance. Frenchies can be prone to congenital issues like breathing issues or eye issues, so they will need regular vet care.
Bichon Frise
Bichons are beloved by seniors everywhere. These tiny dogs were originally bred to be companion animals and they love people. They are soft and fluffy, and they do require regular grooming and baths. They are very intelligent and easy to train. Bichons stay very small and light, which makes them great companions for seniors.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs that thrive on companionship. They have a moderate energy level and are adaptable to apartment or small home living. Regular grooming is necessary for their long coats, but their friendly demeanor makes them wonderful companions for seniors.
Pug
Pugs have a friendly and sociable nature. They are known for their loving temperament and relatively low exercise requirements. Pugs do shed, but their short coats are easy to maintain with regular brushing. Their playful and affectionate nature can bring joy to any household. They are also very compact and perfect for seniors that want a small companion animal.
Beagle
Beagles are small to medium-sized dogs with a friendly and curious personality. They are good with families and enjoy being part of the action. Beagles need regular exercise, but their short coat is low-maintenance. Their loyalty and playful nature can bring joy to seniors looking for an active yet manageable companion.
Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers are on the medium to large side, but they are wonderful companion dogs. They love people and are known for their friendly and outgoing nature. They are careful and gentle with children and seniors and love a good walk. Goldens require regular exercise, but their loyalty and trainability make them wonderful companions for seniors who enjoy outdoor activities. They can be prone to hip problems because of their size, so make sure they see a vet regularly for monitoring.
If you or an aging loved one is considering in-home care in Larkspur, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY Home Care of Parker. 303-953-9924
