Dog's Help

Due to many reasons, old people often tend to get lonely. And on a number of occasions, this loneliness can be a bit of a problem. They can solve this problem by having a dog as a constant companion. Dogs can be a full-time and most loving companion that they can have. However, due to the restriction that old age puts on their ability to carry out physical work, only non-sporty breeds are recommended as pets. Lack of agility in such breeds is something that suits the environment around old people the best.

Non-sporty breeds, as the name suggests, are those that do not engage in sporting activities. They are physically built in a manner which puts some limit on their agility and movement. However, dogs will still be dogs. The limit on their movement does not hamper their capability to show affection, respect and assurance towards their human masters. Hence, such breeds can be kept as companions to old people without any worry.

There are a number of non-sporty breeds that old people can choose from. Some examples of such non-sporty breeds are discussed below.

* The American Eskimo dog- These dogs are bred to be companion dogs. Behavior traits that make them perfect for old people is that they are moderately independent, are excellent watchdogs, and always bark to announce the arrival of a stranger.

* The Boston Terrier- Boston terriers can be good companions to old people because their behavior trait includes being gentle, expressive, well-mannered, and alert.

* The Bichon Frise- This variety was bred as a companion breed. What makes them suitable for old people is their friendly and alert temperament.
 
* Bulldogs- Bulldogs can get so attached to human presence that they won’t venture out of the house without human company. This makes them amicable, gregarious and docile companions for old people.

* Chow Chow- This Chinese breed is known for having a sense of proprietorship over its territory (read as home). Also, their behavior towards strangers is anything except friendly. This can be used to their advantage by old people.

* Poodles- Poodles are people-friendly dogs. However, there demand for daily exercise may be at times too much of a task for old people.

Apart from the above mentioned breeds some other breeds that old people can choose from are the adorable looking yet powerful Dalmatian, the Finnish Spitz, Lhasa apso, Keeshond, the Tibetan spaniel and the Tibetan terrier. Further, while choosing a breed, it is not necessary that old people choose only non-sporting dog breeds. They can choose a dog breed according to the breed’s look as well.

There are a few things that old people need to take into consideration before having a dog around them. First thing first, they need to ensure that either they or someone else is always around to take care of the dog, to feed it, to take it out and to bathe it. Secondly, there should be adequate resources in terms of space, time and funding to support the dog. Without paying attention to these two factors, opting for a dog is not advisable.