By T Halsell
Studies have shown that pets greatly help the elderly with the need for companionship. While pets can take various forms, dogs consistently rank at the top of the list of favorite pets for the elderly. In unofficial polling upwards of ninety percent of seniors say that they are less lonely and much happier when they have adopted a pet. With this train of thought in mind, the question becomes, are some dogs lower maintenance for the elderly than others.
A consideration in selecting a dog as a companion for a senior is the actual size of the dog. Large dogs who need a lot of space and require a good amount of exercise are not the best choice for the elderly. A small dog on the order of a "lap dog" who desires to be handled and petted is often the first place to start looking for a good match. Also, consider that if a trip to the vet is necessary, a small dog is easier for the elderly person to handle.
Dogs reported to be tolerant and yet very attentive to the elderly are the following breeds. A pug is reputed to be very loving and yet able to calm itself just to lay on the owner's lap. These dogs need attention but give as much and more as they receive. Short-haired and a bit of clown, the pug is a great companion for the senior citizen.
Another popular small breed for the senior ready for a lively companion is the Pomeranian. These little dogs have a lot of personality and with their "fuzzy" good looks very cuddly. As is often true of small dogs, the Pomeranian has quite a personality and will interact with the senior owner as a good loving little companion.
Finally, the last of the breeds I will mention for consideration is the "ferocious" and very noisy but very cute little Chihuahua. Weighing almost five pounds soaking wet, and somewhere between 6 to 9 inches tall, the little Chihuahua will be the companion who sounds the alarm anytime someone come near the house. The little dog with the big bark is also very affectionate and a good little guard dog.
Any of the breeds mentioned above are a good starting place for an elderly, who may well be limited as to space. In any event, these are low maintenance dogs who can provide good companionship for the elderly given a chance.
T Halsell is a writer who grew up in Kentucky and relocated to the Washington DC Metro area in the mid 70's. During this time she worked in many areas but began to write various articles about experiences with animals out a love especially for dogs. The Dog Training Academy is a website hosted at http://www.learnhowtotrainadog.com and will give the reader more information especially on training puppies. Take time to become an effective master for your dog's sake.
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