6 Dog Breeds that Are Ideal for Older Adults

by | Jul 1, 2024 | Miscellaneous

It’s no secret that dogs make great companions for elderly people. The animals bring joy, amusement, and unconditional love into their owners’ lives. Studies also show dog ownership carries many positive benefits, including enhanced emotional, psychological, and physical health. Spending time with beloved canine companions can help older adults prevent loneliness and depression, and caring for a furry friend can reduce stress, anxiety, and hypertension. Along with making great companions, dogs provide a sense of being needed. Before your elderly loved one adopts a dog, it’s important to take into consideration the health and energy levels of both your loved one and the dog. Here are a few dog breeds that are ideal for seniors. 

1. Shiba Inu

These unusual small Japanese dogs mature to a weight of around 18 pounds. Shibas have a reputation for being affectionate, alert, and loyal. Without proper correction, they might become territorial and aggressive. However, they’re easy to train and aren’t prone to major health problems. 

Caring for pets isn’t the only way older adults can receive mental and social stimulation. For families living in Edmonton, homecare can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At InCasa Home Care Services, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.

2. American Eskimo

Also commonly referred to as the American Spitz, these dogs are considered medium in size and grow to a weight of around 30 pounds. These dogs are known for their alertness, friendliness, and intelligence. However, their thick coats require constant upkeep, and these dogs need regular exercise. 

3. Irish Terrier

One of the advantages of this breed of terrier is the fact that their curly coats shed very little. At 25 pounds when mature, these dogs are cheerful, loyal, and playful. They do need regular walks or an enclosed yard to run and exercise in. 

4. Xoloitzcuintli

This unusual dog breed hails from Mexico. These short-haired dogs weigh 30 pounds when mature, and their coats vary widely in colour. They’re happy, alert, and friendly while being loyal and slightly protective. These dogs also only require a moderate amount of exercise. 

Engaging in pet therapy is known to boost quality of life, but seniors often require additional assistance to remain healthy and happy while aging in place. Living alone at home in the golden years can present a few unique challenges. Trust home care service professionals to help your senior loved one maintain a higher quality of life while he or she lives with an illness and performs the daily tasks of living. 

5. Icelandic Sheepdog

Being a medium-sized breed, these dogs grow to weigh about 25 pounds. They’re friendly and relatively easy to train. Their thick coats need regular brushing. This breed of sheepdog is also susceptible to developing retinal dysplasia. 

6. Sealyham Terrier

Also known as Welsh Border Terriers, these dogs have lush wavy coats that come in many different colours. When fully grown, they weigh approximately 24 pounds. They also don’t require as much exercise as other dog breeds, and some are prone to eye problems.

From caring for their dogs to preparing meals, seniors may need help with a wide variety of everyday activities. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable senior home care. Families trust InCasa Home Care Edmonton Services to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today to learn more about our reliable in-home care services. 

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