When choosing a pet, dogs are the most preferred options—for everyone. However, choosing the best dogs for seniors in independent living can be a bit of a task. You must consider factors like the needs of the dog, preferences, and lifestyle of the owner. With the variety of dog breeds out there, how do you choose the one you love?
Poodle
If you’re looking for a smart and easy-to-train dog, the poodle breed is the best dog for you. They learn incredibly fast, easily adapt to any lifestyle, and are affectionate. The poodle breed has a short coat that needs only a little washing and combing. This makes them ideal for those with limited mobility or who suffer from skin problems such as eczema or psoriasis.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
With adorable droopy eyes, the small and cute Cavaliers are a snuggly furry friend to adopt for your loved one. They adapt easily and make awesome playmates for seniors because they like to chase things. Even though the Cavalier requires regular grooming needs, like coat cleaning, and hair bushing, they are one of the best dog breeds to buy.
French Bulldog
“Frenchies” as they are fondly called, are the hard-to-resist, playful dog breed. These bright and naturally curious dogs make the happiest playmates. Grooming French Bulldogs do not require much effort because their shiny coats are easy to brush and don’t shed much. Aging retirees however must take care to clean the Frenchies’ faces to prevent snotty noses and dirty faces. Unlike the Cavaliers who love to chase things, French Bulldogs love an occasional walk to the park or daily short-distance walks.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are that breed of dog that never leave their owner’s side. They are very smart and they love attention. Shih Tzus, love daily walks with their owners and are welcoming and kind to strangers. If you’re looking for a dog to flaunt around the community, they are the best breeds to use. Their coats are easy to clean hence endearing them the most to seniors.
Bichon Frise
Who wouldn’t love an all-fluffy fur friend? The Bichon Frise breed is your small cuddly, playful and fluffy friend. Bichons are one of the easiest dogs to train. They require low maintenance and can adapt to any lifestyle. Hence, they are the easiest dogs to adopt for aging adults in retirement communities. These dog breeds make an intelligent bunch. Bichons do not like too much exercise and their coats are easy to groom.
Pug
The best dog for aging adults who would love to sit all day, cuddling and rocking a dog is the pug. Pugs spend most of their awake time indoors. They are childlike and very loyal to their owners. They require very little grooming but try to look their perky best.
The perfect dogs for aging adults in retirement communities are those which suit your lifestyle and abilities. The poodles and bichons and pugs, all have their different needs and may not appeal to you. Hence, when choosing a dog, ensure you adopt one that ticks all your boxes.
