Top Dog Breeds for Retirement: Discover the Perfect Companion for Your Golden Years
Discover the numerous benefits of owning a dog in retirement. From companionship to stress relief, dogs can enhance your golden years like no other.
%201000.jpg)
Retirement is a time for relaxation, exploration, and enjoying life to the fullest. And what better way to add joy and companionship to your golden years than by getting a dog? Studies have shown that dogs offer a multitude of benefits, from reducing stress and depression to improving overall well-being. However, before diving into the world of dog ownership, it's important to consider your lifestyle and make an informed decision.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of having a dog in retirement and provide valuable insights to help you find the perfect furry friend.
The Benefits of Having a Dog in Retirement: Companionship and Beyond
- Companionship and Emotional Support:
Dogs are incredible companions, providing unwavering love and support. They offer a sense of purpose, helping retirees combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. The bond formed with a dog can be incredibly fulfilling, offering comfort and emotional stability during this new chapter of life.
Whether it's going for walks, snuggling up on the couch, or simply having a loyal presence by your side, dogs truly become beloved members of the family.
- Stress Relief and Improved Mental Health:
Retirement can bring about its share of stressors, but having a dog can help alleviate them. Studies have shown that interacting with dogs releases oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of happiness and reduces stress . Dogs also encourage regular exercise, providing daily walks and playtime that boost endorphin levels and improve mood.
Additionally, the responsibility of caring for a dog can give retirees a sense of purpose and routine, enhancing overall mental well-being.
- Physical Health Benefits:
Getting a dog in retirement encourages a more active lifestyle. Daily walks and playtime contribute to increased physical activity, leading to improved cardiovascular health and stronger muscles.
Dogs are great motivators for exercise, as they provide a reason to get out and move, benefiting both you and your furry friend.
- Socialization Opportunities:
Retirees often find themselves with more free time, and having a dog can open doors to new social interactions. Dog parks, pet-friendly events, and neighborhood walks present opportunities to meet new people and develop connections with fellow dog owners. Dogs act as natural icebreakers, sparking conversations and fostering a sense of community among retirees.
Owning a dog in retirement offers a wealth of benefits, from companionship and emotional support to improved mental and physical health. However, it's crucial to consider your lifestyle, travel plans, and ability to provide proper care before making the decision to bring a dog into your life. By doing your research and understanding your needs, you can find the perfect canine companion that will enrich your golden years and become an integral part of your retirement journey.
Remember, a dog is not just a pet; they become a cherished member of the family, offering unconditional love and friendship throughout your retirement adventure.
Pawbits 300 Adult Senior Dog Hip & Joint Supplements
- BRING BACK THEIR SPRING: Dogs love nothing more than to move! Your joint supplements for dogs are jam packed full of goodness to bring back the spring in their step and help relieve joint pain. Your dog joint supplements are perfect for adult and mature dogs of any breed.
- PACKED FULL OF GOODNESS: These Green Lipped Mussel dog vitamins and supplements tablets are brimming full of goodness that absorbs quickly and effectively to strengthen joints as well as lubricate them. Including Omega 3 fatty acids and glycoproteins to help soothe stiffness, promote mobility and support long-term joint health, with Vitamin C and Vitamin E, antioxidants Manganese, as well as Glucosamine Hydrochloride and Hyaluronic Acid.
Pawbits 300 Adult Senior Dog Hip & Joint Supplements
- BRING BACK THEIR SPRING: Dogs love nothing more than to move! Your joint supplements for dogs are jam packed full of goodness to bring back the spring in their step and help relieve joint pain. Your dog joint supplements are perfect for adult and mature dogs of any breed.
- PACKED FULL OF GOODNESS: These Green Lipped Mussel dog vitamins and supplements tablets are brimming full of goodness that absorbs quickly and effectively to strengthen joints as well as lubricate them. Including Omega 3 fatty acids and glycoproteins to help soothe stiffness, promote mobility and support long-term joint health, with Vitamin C and Vitamin E, antioxidants Manganese, as well as Glucosamine Hydrochloride and Hyaluronic Acid.
Join the community
Our Community has over 400k followers sharing ideas and thoughts... join us on facebook!
join us on FacebookWhat are the best Retirement Dog breeds?
The Greyhound.
Contrary to popular belief the greyhound is actually quite a low maintenance dog and perfectly suited to small apartment living. The greyhound whilst in their early years bred for coursing and sports they have a life span of 12-14 years. They thrive in quiet environments and tend not to bark much. They love sleeping and can sleep for up to 18 hours a day leading some owners to describe them as their“45-mile-per-hour couch potatoes”.
Similar but slightly smaller in stature is the whippet another ideal companion. The perfect dog for those retirement years.
Check out the Greyhound Charity Trusts Forever Hounds Trust is a great place to start.
Background Dog Info – Greyhound
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
There’s nothing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel loves more than having a nap on your lap!
“A happy, friendly and affectionate breed, making it a wonderful companion,” say The Kennel Club.
Older adults have many options when it comes to pet ownership. Some people prefer small, furry animals like cats or dogs.
King Charles Spaniels are known to be very friendly and affectionate pets who enjoy cuddling with their owners. They do require regular grooming and brushing but they don’t shed as much hair as other dog breeds so there’s less of an impact on allergies. It is sometimes thought that the King Charles Spaniel fits better into a more mature household, as young children can be a little unpredictable for the King Charles Spaniel and make them anxious.
However, with the appropriate socialisation and training, this need not always be the case.
The more time spent training and caring for your pet the more rewarding the relationship will be; if you make sure they always feel loved and cared for then they’ll return your love in kind!
Background Dog Info – The King Charles Spaniel
Corgi.
“Favourite of the Queen, Corgis are outgoing, friendly and assured dogs. The word Corgi is thought to be rooted in the Celtic ‘cor’ meaning dwarf and ‘gi’ – dog,” The Kennel Club said. Corgis are a herding breed so do require approx. 45 minutes of exercise a day. This isn’t always a bad thing as sometimes that’s all the motivation we need to get off the sofa!
Corgis are high-energy dogs that require a lot of exercise and attention on the part of their owners. They have been bred for generations to be outdoors men because they were used as herding dogs in Wales.
Corgis are also very intelligent and easily trainable which makes them an ideal pet choice for adults who work from home or want an active companion animal. What’s not to love about these huggable little guys?
Background Dog Info – The Corgi
French Bulldog.
The French Bulldog can be a perfect solution for many older adults. Like most breeds puppies are always a lot more work so maybe think about the French Bulldog Rescue Network (FBRN) which is an organization that accepts surrendered French bulldogs only and tries to match them with a forever homebased upon the Frenchie’s needs and preferences.
French bulldogs are notoriously ‘crazy’ dogs. They all have their own unique personalities which isa joy to behold. be sure to have a good chat with the breeders or owners before buying and make sure that particular Frenchie is what you are looking for as no two are the same.
If you are looking for low exercise then a Frenchie is definitely an option for you they are loyal companions and love being with families and owners alike, this could be your perfect retirement dog, especially if you’re still a little bit ‘crazy’ yourself!
Regular grooming and bathing are required to keep these entertaining dogs fit and fun.
Background Dog Info – The Frenchie
West Highland Terrier or ‘Westie‘
Steve Owen, Chairman of the Southern West Highland White Terrier Club shared his own West Highland Terrier experience with the AgeUK :
“West Highland White Terriers do not require a great deal of exercise. I would say that about 20minutes twice a day would be enough provided they have a garden to play in. However, once full-grown, they are perfectly able to walk for hours if the owner has the energy.
“I have seen many dogs that are quite happy to walk beside a mobility scooter, but some training would be required. I have owned this breed for nearly 30 years and as I’m now 70 I suppose I come in the “older adult” category. However, the great thing about dog ownership is that you have something to get out of bed for.”
If you’re looking for a companion that’s affectionate, intelligent, and independent – then the West Highland Terrier is perfect for you!
West Highland Terriers are one of the most popular breeds among older adults because they make great companions who crave human attention but are also happy to be left alone at times too.
These dogs are very protective of their family members and will not hesitate to defend them if necessary. They’re also known as “the little clowns” because they have lots of energy; they enjoy playing games and being the centre of attention. If that’s what you are looking for in a dog to share your retirement with then look no further.
Background Dog Info – The Westie
Whatever dog you decide on make sure you do your homework and as always at least consider the rescue dogs that are often more mature and already trained.
Lastly, as mentioned before it is your retirement so do what suits you, if you are honest about what you can offer and what you want you are sure to make the right choice!
Useful links
Do you have a dog, what breed is it?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
Dog Hammock for Car Back seat with Mesh Visual Window,
- 【COMPATIBILITY WITH DIFFERENT VEHICLES】The dog back seat cover protects your car from scratches, hair or mud. 137*147cm is suitable for most of the backseats of standard cars.
- 【THE MESH VISUAL WINDOW】The dog seat cover with mesh breath window is great for the air to flow into the back to keep your pup cool. The Visual window helps to reduce pup’s anxiety when they see you through it. Convenient for you and your pet to check each other at any time
- 【Quick and Easy Installation】Our dog hammock for car back seat is super easy to install and remove, featuring special sea anchors and adjustable snap buckles for a perfect fit in your backseat. Also, the cover has a seatbelt opening in case you want to be extra careful and a carry bag to store your pet’s essentials!
Dog Hammock for Car Back seat with Mesh Visual Window,
- 【COMPATIBILITY WITH DIFFERENT VEHICLES】The dog back seat cover protects your car from scratches, hair or mud. 137*147cm is suitable for most of the backseats of standard cars.
- 【THE MESH VISUAL WINDOW】The dog seat cover with mesh breath window is great for the air to flow into the back to keep your pup cool. The Visual window helps to reduce pup’s anxiety when they see you through it. Convenient for you and your pet to check each other at any time
- 【Quick and Easy Installation】Our dog hammock for car back seat is super easy to install and remove, featuring special sea anchors and adjustable snap buckles for a perfect fit in your backseat. Also, the cover has a seatbelt opening in case you want to be extra careful and a carry bag to store your pet’s essentials!
Join the community
Our Community has over 400k followers sharing ideas and thoughts... join us on facebook!
join us on FacebookRelated articles
Join the community
Our Community has over 400k followers sharing ideas and thoughts... join us on facebook!
join us on FacebookJoin the community
Our Community has over 400k followers sharing ideas and thoughts... join us on facebook!
join us on Facebook
More Articles
comment