what would be the best dog for an elderly person?

Question

I would like to get my elderly mother a dog that would make her feel safe in her own home plus be a good companion as well

Answer 1

If possible, see what types she likes Stay away from Chihuahua's, they are MEAN. Yorkies are really cute, and small enough to handle. Any dog that is a good guard dog is usually large. Pit bulls are medium sized, and very loyal and protective. Or, take your mom to the pound, and have her pick one out (or the dog might pick her out!). If you want a purebred, check the pound or rescue groups via a search engine. There are many dogs that need homes. Hope your mom gets the right one! Good luck!

Answer 2

I would stay away from terriers. They're adorable, but might be too active for an elderly person. Rescue a mature dog, by all means. Look for a small dog, possibly a toy. I would strongly consider adopting via a specific breed rescue rather than the humane society or a like shelter. Not that those dogs don't need homes as badly, but quite often what you see is what you get...right along with any problems that poor soul might have. Breed specific rescue sites can be found online and they try their darndest to make sure the dog is ready for adoption (potty trained, shots, health issues addressed, socialized, etc.) because their goal is to find a forever home for the dog. A senior dog would be an ideal choice. Often these older dogs have had to be owner surrendered because of health issues an elderly person has had. They usually come to rescue having been loved and cared for and make ideal companions.

Answer 3

The choice to get a dog should first and foremost be your mother's decision. If you have not yet discussed it with her, you should as she will be it's primary caregiver. Secondly, make sure you have a plan as to who in the family the dog will go to if something should happen to her.

Then, I would look for an older dog, that's already trained (6 years or older ideally, and no younger than 2-3). This way she does not have to worry about housebreaking, puppy training etc. Moreover, there are many wonderfully older dogs that are in need of a home because people want puppies.

I would also recommend getting something in the small to medium range. That being said, the kind of dog should be your mother's choice. She should pick the dog out as it will be her companion and not yours.

Answer 4

Get her a Cat. Dogs require too much work.
Is she able too take the dog for walks all the time? Is she able to pick up the dog poop and dispose of it? Is there reason too think she is not safe in her home now? Does she want a dog? You say you would like to get her a dog but don't mention that she has asked for one.
If she does, get her a Pug. They make great companions, and bark at every little noise they hear. Would probably scare a prowler off, with it's barking (or annoy it off) lol, and alert your mother to the fact she could be in danger. But will that make her feel safe? or on edge every time the dog starts barking?

Answer 5

That would all depend on where she lives (rental, owned etc.) and what type of life style she has. I would recommend that if she owns her own home that she get a pug because they are quite hardy around kids such as grandkids and they will alert her to any intruder. They also require little excersise and food. They are bred purely as a companion dog. They are not very much of a barker unless someone is coming to the door or entering the premises without permission. This barking would alert her in enough time to call for help, since she wouldn't want it to attack. An attack dog can cause problems.

Answer 6

Unless she has told you upfront that she wants a dog, ask her before you go out & get her one. You don't want to make any investment of time, energy, & money only to find that she didn't want a dog. Have her be the central part of the decision making since it will be her companion & protection. Look for a small to medium sized dog. It will be easier to take care of & the smaller breeds tend to be a little more noisy than bigger breeds & tend to live longer.

Pounds are good options. Also, check out rescue groups. Some dogs were sent there because their owners couldn't take care of them due to advanced age &/or health. The dog may be use to having an older person caring for them. If her health fails, even temporarily, be ready to take her friend in. Many nursing homes allow patient's pets to visit. Check out akc.org & other similar websites to get as much information as possible, so she has the best companion for her.

Answer 7

If you want a big guard dog go with a Rottweiler but if you want a smaller dog but a guard dog go with a Corgi they make a good watch dog and there not really big but if you just want a dog that want get big and doesn't bark that much go with a Maltese Terrier

Answer 8

Hutch Dog

Answer 9

an older,already trained dog-a mixed breed, from a animal shelter. Go to the shelter and see what they have. I sure they have a good companion for your mom

Answer 10

Well...my grandma has a male shitzu and he is sooo loyal to her.He waits for her to go up the stairs before he does...he doesnt leave her at all....and when my grandma has to leave he waits by the window to watch her and see if shes okay.He is such a nice dog!!!I have a female,but my grandmas shitzu is male....so i dk.If you want a bigger dog for her id say get a black lab.
Shitzus live about 15 years if you take good care of it.