Best Dog to Own for Women Over 50

Deciding what type of dog to bring into your life is a huge decision. Factors like your lifestyle and your physical ability to care for a dog factor into the equation. That’s why your decision on the type of dog to bring home should pivot on your health, how agile you are, and your ability to care for the creature that will be depending on you.

How About a Mutt?

There are some great mutts out there that are in need of a good home. You can guess at their lineage. A crossbred mutt with good genetics might have the best traits of each breed. Mutts generally have better immune systems than purebreds and less chance of inheriting a genetic disease. A purebred dog with papers is going to cost you at least $500. Mutts are easy to find and affordable. They come in all shapes and sizes too. Find a local shelter to see if your fur-ever buddy is waiting for you there.

Puppy or Senior Dog?

Who doesn’t love a little puppy? They are fun little rascals who you can train to be a great companion. They have a long life ahead of them and you will be able to share years of special memories.

However, any puppy needs to be housebroken and may need a great dog poop bag dispenser. A senior dog might mark its space once or twice, but he or she will get down with the program in short order. Also, senior dogs tend to be a bit calmer. If you aren’t wanting to take lots of walks and would prefer to avoid carpet cleaner, a senior dog might be for you.

Purebreds

While there are certainly some evil puppy mills and bad breeders in the world, there are many reputable breeders. If you choose to select a puppy from a breeder, be sure to familiarize yourself with what to look for in a good breeder. Reputable breeders choose their parents to highlight the positive traits in the lineage. This is especially important if you are wanting a dog that is hypoallergenic or is a great family dog to have around the grandkids. Here are a handful of recommended purebreds:

• Maltese: If you’re allergic to most dogs and cats, one of these hypoallergenic little ones might be the right dog for you. They’re very smart, and they’re not going to faceplant you on the sidewalk when they’re on a leash. Their life expectancy can push 20 years. However, like any other purebred dog, they have their own set of genetic health issues.
• Beagle: Ya ain’t nothin but a hound dog. A dog of this breed is likely to be inquisitive, especially with its nose. The breed can also be stubborn. They love three walks a day or a fenced backyard.
• Dachshund: This is a sturdy and intelligent German breed that will want to defend its territory from the mailman. Dachshunds love to eat, so they’ll be around any meal. Don’t feed them too much or your dog’s belly might start hitting the ground. You’ll be the talk of the neighborhood when you have to start walking your dachshund on a skateboard.
• The Goldendoodle: While the Goldendoodle isn’t technically a purebred (it is a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Standard Poodle), their sweet temperament, high intelligence, and fun-loving personality are characteristics of this breed. These dogs also have minimal dander, which is especially important if you suffer from allergies.
• Cocker Spaniel: They’re inherently bird dogs, but they love to go chase a tennis ball out on the water too. They’re a social, even-tempered, loyal, and loving breed.

Caring for you New Dog

Whether you bring home a mutt or a purebred, puppy or senior, your new friend is going to be dependent on you for their health and wellbeing. For example, many dogs need access to the outdoors and lots of exercises. Some breeds, like Australian Cattle Dogs, require a very active lifestyle in order to maintain their physical and emotional health and wellbeing. Other dogs, like English Bulldogs, not so much.

Additionally, your new companion needs to learn to socialize appropriately to avoid the risk of biting another dog, friend, or family member. Contact your local vet or PetSmart to find more information on puppy and dog training classes.