Whether the elderly live alone or with family caregivers, they can often feel lonely. Pets provide many benefits for the elderly, but lapdogs can provide the most comfort.
Not only are small dogs cuddly and affectionate, but they offer a much needed sense of responsibility. Many people care for an elderly person...but they may miss having something that they can nurture, too.
A canine companion for an elder should be mature, well-behaved and low maintenance if the owner will not be able to perform complex care regimens. That is why these three breeds can be ideal for even seniors with disabilities:
1. The Chihuahua
This is a pint-sized pet that can also be fiercely protective. They adapt well to small living quarters, and only require a minimum amount of grooming. Since they are so small, they can get all their exercise just from playing indoors.
Chihuahuas are often known for their tendency to become attached to one person only. This makes for a very strong bond between the elder and their new friend.
2. The Boston Terrier
This breed is becoming increasingly popular for professional pet therapy sessions. Intelligent, loyal, and bred specifically as a "people dog", the Boston loves to visit elders in nursing homes, and will love to be a pampered lapdog too.
Boston Terriers are also relatively low-maintenance. They like to play, but they will be comfortable playing indoors or in a small yard. All they need is the occasional bath and a quick daily brushing to look glossy, handsome and well-kept.
3. The Pug
Pugs are super adaptable to any lifestyle. They don't need much in the way of grooming, they are very affectionate, and they are energetic without requiring excessive exercise. Pugs are also great with kids, which means grandchildren and great-grandchildren don't have to worry about being nipped. (something that can happen with chihuahuas.)
Why a Small Dog?
Large dogs have their benefits too. For example, a German Shepherd will be much more intimidating to a burglar than a pug.The issues with big dogs and the elderly are safety and management. A large dog is more likely to unintentionally hurt a senior. Even a playful nudge from a larger breed could cause someone with balance problems to fall.
Unless they are already well trained, they can be difficult to handle. Even a well-trained animal may need more outdoor exercise than an elderly owner can provide.
Smaller dog breeds are usually cheaper to maintain. They eat less, require smaller beds and crates, and won't require heavy-duty equipment or large, expensive toys. And of course, it is much easier to carry a chihuahua than to carry a Golden Retriever, which makes vet trips and family outings a lot less stressful.
Some Considerations on Buying a Small Dog For an Elderly Person
In my post on cats, I mentioned why cat color was important for choosing a cat for an elderly person. Most of that holds true for dogs as well. A dog should be easy to groom, and not so darkly colored that it becomes a tripping risk.
Of course, some people prefer fuzzy dogs, even if they are harder to groom. Just take that into consideration when choosing the best dog for your loved one, along with the health and mobility of the person in question, whether or not they need/prefer a puppy or a grown dog, and how much time and money they will be able to spend on a dog's health and fitness.
With a little determination, some patience, and the right timing; you can help your loved one find the right companion, and reap the healing power of pets.
P.S. Don't forget that shelter dogs make great pets too!
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image courtesy morguefile.com
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