Top 17 Dog Breeds for Seniors: Here is a list of the top 17 dog breeds for senior citizens. In our earlier essay regarding the most well-liked dog breeds, we examined the post-COVID pet ownership boom, especially in the US. We also talked about how around 10% of adults between the ages of 50 and 80 acquired a new pet in 2022 compared to 2021. This essay will start off by talking about the advantages of pet ownership for senior citizens.
Among older adults, having a pet is linked to less physical health decline. An increasing amount of evidence indicates that older persons who own pets benefit socially. It lessens loneliness in older persons and enhances the likelihood of social engagement. It may help maintain cognitive performance in older persons, which would support the concept of good aging. This is particularly true for older people who are socially isolated and look to their pets for comfort.
Even people with dementia benefit from social connection when an animal is around. A study found that when a friendly dog visited residents at assisted living facilities, the quality of their social interactions increased. Having a dog is linked to physical exercise and has been demonstrated to improve everyone’s health. Studies reveal that senior citizens who walk dogs had reduced body mass and fewer medical visits than those who don’t own pets.
With the advantages of pet ownership listed above, it should come as no surprise that the number of older persons who owned pets increased following the Covid. When compared to the 2009–2019 period, the pace of growth of families owning pets quadrupled between 2020 and 2023, which contributed to an overall increase in pet ownership. Additionally, this has led to higher expenses for pet supplies and food.
The humanization of pets has resulted in the premiumization of high-quality meals and gain-free brands, which is one of the causes of the rise in pet expenses. But other facets of the pet’s lives are also being humanized.
In 2023, the pet economy was estimated to be worth $130 billion to $140 billion. The pet economy can be divided into four main categories: services, products and supplies, healthcare, and nutrition. The humanization component affects every sector of the pet economy, even though nourishment accounts for the majority of costs. The demand for healthy pet products has increased recently. In addition, since the lockdown was lifted and workers had to return to their offices, the demand for services like dog daycare has increased. The pet grooming business is allegedly ripe for investment right now, according to many experts.
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Well-known consumer brands that have entered the market are Post Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:POST), which is well aware of the humanization element. Post Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:POST), along with other businesses, recently acquired one of the first pet nutrition companies to enter the market. The business is an American holding company for consumer packaged goods. The headquarters of Post Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:POST) are located in St. Louis, Missouri.
Top 17 Dog Breeds for Seniors: Benefits of Pet Ownership for Older Adults
17. Maltipoo
One of the greatest dog breeds for elderly people is the maltipoo. It is a tiny dog with moderate exercise needs that weighs between 10 and 20 pounds. Although these dogs require daily brushing with a wire slicker brush, they might have a “puppy cut” to save upkeep. Maltipoos are good for senior citizens because they are sensitive to their surroundings and do best in homes where they are loved and are not left alone for extended periods of time.
16. Miniature Schnauzer
16th on our list of the top 17 dog breeds for senior citizens is the miniature schnauzer. Compared to higher-maintenance breeds, these dogs require less grooming and have a lower shedding rate, making them easier to care for. Furthermore, because of their small size, they are easy to handle and transport and may live happily in flats without taking up a lot of room.
15. Beagle
One of the greatest dog breeds for elderly people is the beagle. Because these dogs are loving and devoted, they can be a wonderful companion for senior citizens. They are very low maintenance due to their short coat, and their modest size makes them fit in with a variety of living arrangements, such as small apartments or houses.
14. Cocker Spaniel
For a number of reasons, the Cocker Spaniel is among the greatest breeds for senior citizens. Firstly, the low-to-moderate shedding rate of these canines makes them easier to care for. Second, because of their moderate size and often quiet nature, they are ideal for a variety of living situations, including apartments.
13. Havanese
Among the most adorable dogs are Havanese. They are quite trainable, gregarious, and friendly. They are ideal for senior citizens because to their small size and mild workout requirements. Seniors may find it inconvenient to regularly brush these canines and occasionally have them professionally groomed.
12. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever ranks 12th among the top 17 dog breeds suitable for elderly owners. These are very perceptive, amiable, and loving dogs who have a reputation for being fiercely dedicated to their families and for building close relationships with their owners. These dogs are ideal for senior citizens since they are simple to train. They also require very little grooming, which makes maintenance simple. Due to their high exercise requirements, labradors might not be the best choice for certain elderly individuals.
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11. Pomeranian
One of the greatest dog breeds for senior citizens is the Pomeranian. These tiny dogs are ideal for senior citizens because they are 3 to 7 pounds in weight and 7 to 12 inches tall. Pomerarians are little dogs, but their intelligence and alertness make them excellent watchdogs for senior citizens.
10. Golden Retriever
Tenth on our list of the top 17 dog breeds for senior citizens is the golden retriever. Having scored third on Stanley Coren’s intelligence test, they are regarded as one of the smartest dog breeds. They are highly trainable and proficient in a number of skills, such as agility, obedience, and search and rescue.
9. Bichon Frise
Due to their petite size—Bichon Frise typically weigh between 10 and 18 pounds—people with ulcers can easily handle them. A Bichon Frise is a clever, gregarious, and lively dog. They are reasonably easy to teach and get along well with kids and other pets.
8- Greyhound
Among the greatest dog breeds for seniors, the greyhound comes in at number eight. These are sporty, sleek dogs with a short, multicolored coat. Due to their loving nature and peaceful disposition, greyhounds are ideal for senior citizens.
7. Maltese
Ranking seventh on our list of the top senior dog breeds is the Maltese. These canines have a long, straight, silky white coat and weigh less than seven pounds. Their small bodies make them ideal for senior citizens. Maltese dogs are often calm and get along well with other family pets.
6. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Sixth on our list of the top 17 dog breeds for senior citizens is the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Nevertheless, because they are gregarious, athletic, and enjoy regular walks, these dogs are perfect for somewhat active seniors despite their short legs. Careful watchdogs, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are loyal to their owners.
5. French Bulldog
Among the top 5 dog breeds for seniors is the French Bulldog. The dog was also the most popular breed according to our ranking. French Bulldogs are suitable for elders because their average weight ranges from 16 to 28 pounds. With a median lifespan of 10 to 12 years, seniors have plenty of opportunity to form bonds with these canines.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The fourth place dog breed on our list of the top 17 senior dog breeds is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These tiny dogs are a good option for senior citizens because of their reputation for being kind and loving. These canines are ideal for persons who are not less active because they are not excessively energetic. However, syringomyelia, a neurological disorder, hip dysplasia, and cardiac abnormalities are among the health problems that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are more likely to experience. For this reason, routine veterinarian examinations are crucial.
3. Poodle
One of the top three dog breeds for senior citizens is the poodle. There are three sizes available: small, medium, and standard. Seniors are best suited with the tiny size in particular. These canines are very smart and react well to methods of positive reinforcement. They might not be appropriate for seniors who are not as energetic, though, as they are also highly active.
2. Shih Tzu
On our list of the top dog breeds for senior citizens, Shih Tzu comes in second. They are ideal for elders because of their petite stature, loving disposition, and low to moderate energy levels. But in order to avoid matting, Shih Tzus’ high-maintenance coats need to be brushed frequently.
1. Pug
The pug leads our list of the top 17 senior dog breeds, and every single source we consult suggests getting one. Due to their petite stature, weighing roughly between 14 to 18 pounds, pugs are ideal for senior citizens. Their laid-back disposition makes them ideal for living in metropolitan areas. They develop close relationships with their family, get along well with other animals, and interact well with kids in general.
