Small dogs are a great choice for seniors in the Severna Park area who are aging in place, yet desire to have a companion with whom to share their time, energy, and life. Dogs make loyal friends and loving companions at any stage of an individual's life, including someone in their senior years. Dogs are smart, kind, caring, loving, and loyal. They love you through the good times and the bad times. All they want in return is your time, love, energy, attention, and some basic care.
Most seniors who choose to have a dog will opt for a smaller dog for many reasons. Smaller dogs are easier for home caregivers and seniors themselves to take care of. These dogs make convenient companions that are much easier for most seniors to handle than larger dogs.
Small dogs can keep a senior company, lift their spirits, and help them ward off the feelings of loneliness or depression that come from being alone for long periods of time.
Here are 5 benefits of small dog companions for seniors in the Severna Park area:
Varieties of Personalities
There are so many breeds of small dogs and each has its own unique personality. So every senior is bound to find a breed that fits their lifestyle and preferences.To be considered small, dogs generally must be under 30 pounds. Two great examples of different small breed personalities include the loyal and energetic Chihuahua and the playful Pomeranian. No matter what personality you are looking for in a dog, there is a small dog breed for you.
Easier to Handle
Small dogs are much easier for most seniors to handle than big dogs. Many larger dogs have physical strength that can be too overwhelming for many seniors to handle. Smaller dogs make ideal companions because they are not as likely to overwhelm a senior as a large dog would.
Friendly Demeanors
Many small dogs are known for their friendly demeanors and their willingness to spend time with their owner. Small dogs often love to sit on your lap and be stroked, loved, and cuddled. Some of the friendliest small dog breeds include Pugs, Poodles (Toy & Miniature), Maltese, Miniature Schnauzers, and Boston Terriers. These friendly, lap-sized buddies all weigh under 30 pounds.
Suitability for Smaller Areas
Many smaller dogs do great in apartments, townhouses, or smaller homes without yards. This helps because seniors may often find themselves moving into a smaller home to save expenses. Many landlords for apartments, condos, and townhouses allow small dogs which makes them ideal pets for the situation.
Accepted by Many HOAs
If you live in a senior mobile home park, apartment, condo, townhouse, or a neighborhood with an HOA, be aware that most HOAs will accept one or two small dogs over a larger dog. Because small dogs are not considered an aggressive breed, the HOA is more likely to allow them.
Everything Is "A Little Less" Except the Love
Smaller dogs require commitment and a lot of work, but they also make "less" of everything. They eat less and produce less waste. They are easier to handle, easier to groom, easier to walk, and most of them don't require the miles of exercise every day that a larger breed does. As many seniors age in place in their own homes, smaller dogs make care easier without their owners sacrificing love, cuddles, and company.
Learn More About Seniors Opting for Small Dogs
If you are interested in welcoming a small dog into your life and you need assistance in providing care for your new pet in the Severna Park, Bowie, Crofton, or the surrounding areas, please contact us for further assistance. We look forward to helping you with your new pet while you live in your comfortable home and enjoy your furry companion while doing so!