These Dogs Are Gold. The Best Breeds for Seniors Who Want a True Friend

You don't need a big garden or an athletic lifestyle to give a dog a happy home. Some breeds simply thrive in the calm rhythm of the day that many older people lead. They are affectionate, cheerful, and don't require marathons or a trainer's strong hand. They need something completely different - attention.

A beloved pet can have a positive impact on the health of its owner. Interesting conclusions were drawn from a study conducted as part of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA). Scientists from the University of Maryland and the National Institute on Aging compared older people who had pets (n = 185) with those who did not.

The results? Adults who had a pet maintained their physical fitness longer . Differences included general fitness, gait speed, cardiac and respiratory function, and subjective feelings of physical well-being.

This dog is a walking (or rather wagging) joy. The Cavalier loves to be close, preferably cuddled up to its owner or curled up on his lap. His calm disposition makes him great in the company of older people.

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He has a silky, pleasant to the touch fur and expressive eyes. He likes short walks, but he likes coming home after them even more. He needs contact. This is not a dog for living alone in the yard. But in the apartment... a real treasure.

It looks like a stuffed animal and... behaves a bit like one. Bichon Frise is a dog full of joy . It likes to play, enjoys walks, but it also feels good in the comfort of home, with its human. Its great advantage is that its fur does not shed (or only slightly). Many allergy sufferers tolerate contact with this breed well.

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The Bichon is alert, intelligent and very sociable. It needs brushing. It does not require long training or exertion. For a senior who is looking for a dog full of charm and warmth, this is a great choice.

This is a dog that seems to be constantly smiling, and there's something to that. The pug loves being around people. He has a calm disposition, doesn't require much exercise, and loves to nap near people. He's playful, sociable, and gentle.

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Due to its short muzzle, it may have breathing problems, especially on hot days, but with reasonable care, it makes a very grateful companion . It is suitable for apartment living and for those looking for a dog with charisma.

This distinctive, bearded dog can quickly win hearts. The Miniature Schnauzer is an intelligent, alert, and very loyal breed to its owner. Although small, it possesses a wealth of energy and self-confidence. On the one hand, it enjoys watching over the home, but on the other, it never leaves its owner's side.

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He thrives with older people because he's active but not hyperactive . Walks and simple games are perfectly adequate for him. He loves routine, clearly defined rules, and... closeness.