How to Choose a Companion Dog as You Age

Through selective breeding over the course of thousands of years, dog breeds have evolved to meet the needs of humans. Shepherds helped herd sheep, terriers kept the farm clear of mice, and Tibetan Mastiffs protected monks from threats at Monasteries. Centuries of thoughtful, selective breeding has led to a wide range of dogs with traits that can accomplish a countless number of tasks for humans.

Today, perhaps the most important task for dogs is keeping us humans company. There are loads of health benefits to adopting a dog, especially if you’re aging. Some of those benefits include:

• Companionship
• Keeps your heart healthy
• Keeps you fit and active
• Helps you lose or maintain a healthy weight
• Keeps you social
• Reduces stress
• Helps with depression
• Keeps you out of the doctor’s office

Studies show that owning a pet keeps your blood pressure low and allows you to be more active, which also helps you lose or maintain a healthy weight. Dogs can also improve your social life, because owners are likely to talk to one another when out on a walk. Studies also show that owning a pet reduces anxiety and stress, as well as making you less prone to depression. All these health benefits keep you out of the doctor’s office!

Why It’s Important to Choose the Right Pet

It’s important to do your research prior to adopting so that you can find the right dog for you. We’re all different, and some adoptees are looking for specific characteristics in their dog.

If you’re looking for a pet to hang out wth on the couch while you binge-watch Netflix, then you want to adopt a dog whose personality is calmer. Or maybe you'll want to adopt an older dog.

If you’re looking to adopt a dog as a walking buddy, then you’ll want to adopt a dog with more energy.

If you’re looking to adopt a dog for security and to keep you safe at home, then you might want to adopt a larger dog that’s naturally protective of their family.

You want to find a dog that complements your lifestyle and personality. They are going to be your longtime companion and best friend. As you age, you want them to age with you. So keeping them healthy, just like they are keeping you healthy, is key.

Dog Traits to Consider When Adopting

• Health and Longevity
• Size and Strength
• Exercise Requirements
• Trainability
• Age

Let's explore each trait a little further.

Health and Longevity

When adopting a dog, nothing takes a higher priority than their health. Adopting a new dog or puppy requires knowing any potential genetic issues that could arise.

Fortunately, there are tests available for breeders that allow them to detect genetic abnormalities in adult dogs in order to avoid breeding dogs that risk passing on genetic illnesses. To obtain a list of recommended tests and to learn more about genetic disorders of the breed you wish to adopt, visit the Orthopedic Foundation.

Size and Strength

It is no surprise that large dogs are extremely strong. What can be surprising is how strong some of their smaller counterparts are. For example, breeds such as Jack Russel Terriers and Schipperkes weigh under 15 pounds, but both breeds were bred for power and extreme energy levels.

Choosing a dog while considering its size, strength, and energy level will ensure that you have a longtime companion who is your ideal pet.

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Exercise Requirements

Dogs are excellent at keeping us young and active. Having a dog is an easy way to keep yourself on a routine and ensure that you are getting out and meeting people during walks. Some dogs have significantly higher energy levels that require more than two walks a day.

Consider your realistic schedule, dedication to additional walks in a day, and ability to consistently allow your dog the freedom to safely run free in an open area when selecting a breed.

Trainability

Nothing makes for a better companion than an intelligent and properly trained dog. Trainability is an important part of social interaction. Breeds that are easiest to train include:

• Border Collies
• Poodles
• German Shepherds
• Golden Retrievers
• Doberman Pinschers
• Shetland Sheepdogs
• Labrador Retrievers

Age of Dog

We all know puppies are adorable, but they don’t always make the best pets for those who are older. Consider adopting a senior or middle-aged dog. They’re usually already potty-trained and don’t need as much attention. They’re also usually happy to jump on the couch and watch daily soap operas with you!

Just like you, aging pets need vitamins and supplements to keep them healthy. To avoid more serious aging issues, and to prolong their life, make sure to ask your veterinarian what doggy supplements you should give them.

Another thing to consider is pet insurance. It’s become extremely popular to insure your pet due to the high cost of medical care. 

Consider a Backup Plan

It’s not something you want to think about, but what will happen to your companion if something happened to you? Make sure you have a backup plan for your dog for these cases. Too often pets are left without a plan and end up in the pound. The chances of them getting adopted again is a coin toss. Reach out to your veterinarian, family, and friends to see what options you have. It will give you peace of mind knowing that your pet will be taken care of if anything happened to you.

Remember, choosing the right companion dog to grow old with you is not a quick decision. Take the time to research all your options. Talk to family and friends to get their advice and additional insight. The right pet will be a great addition to your home.

Lindsay Engle is the Marketing Specialist at MedicareFAQ, a learning resource center for seniors. Lindsay loves working in the senior healthcare industry. Aside from her job, she has a great passion for animals and loves boating. In her spare time, she enjoys snuggling on the couch with her pets as well as fishing with her boyfriend.