Dogs are incredible companions and hold the title of being a man’s best friend. This stands perfectly true for senior people! The good news is that there are many dog breeds out there that prove to be the best guard dogs for elderly.
Dogs have a positive impact on elders’ physical and mental health. They keep them busy, engaged, boost their mood, and fulfill the human need for touch. Dogs can ease their loneliness with their devoted nature and companionship. Dogs make them feel loved and protected.
The unconditional love that elders feel towards their dogs sounds exciting and amazing. In this blog, we are going to highlight the best guard dogs for elderly. Let’s get started!
Top 5 Best Guard Dog For Elderly
Let’s have a look at the best guard dog breeds for elders. These breeds provide companionship, emotional support, protection, and safety to the elderly.
Boston Terrier
Breed Overview
Breed Group: Non-sporting group
Temperament: Friendly, Bright, Amusing
Average weight: 12-25 pounds
Average height: 15-17 inches
Lifespan: 11-13 years
AKC Breed Popularity Ranking: 21 of 202
What should you know:
The handsome little companion, also known as ‘The American Gentleman’ has a sporty but compact body. They are small enough to live in an apartment space, but not too big to take up too much space.
Boston terriers are lively and polite dogs and possess all the good qualities of a Terrier. They are low shedders and very easy to groom dogs. Boston terriers are intelligent and quite easy to train. Due to their alert and affectionate personality, they make great pets for elderly.
Bostons have a very special affinity for the elderly. They often bond very closely with their owner and become extremely loyal to him. They enjoy spending time and cuddling with their elderly companions.
Standard Schnauzer
Breed Overview
Breed Group: Working group
Temperament: Smart, Fearless, Spirited
Average weight: Male: 35-50 pounds, Female: 30-45 pounds
Average height: Male: 18.5-19.5 inches, Female: 17.5-18.5 inches
Lifespan: 13 – 16 years
AKC Breed Popularity Ranking: 89 of 202
What should you know:
Standard Schnauzers are natural guard dogs. These strong-willed and intelligent dogs are ideal for guarding as they were originally bred to be guard dogs and ratters.
Standard Schnauzers are affectionate dogs that will thrive in the presence of senior owners. Schnauzers are friendly and affectionate, but they always keep a suspicious eye on strangers.
The Standard Schnauzer dog is extremely loyal to the family. No matter what happens in your life, your Standard Schnauzer will remain by your side. Since these dogs are very loyal, they are obedient and will do everything to please their human owners.
Chihuahua
Breed Overview
Breed Group: Toy group
Temperament: Graceful, Charming, Sassy
Average weight: not exceeding 6 pounds
Average height: 5-8 inches
Lifespan: 14-16 years
AKC Breed Popularity Ranking: 33 of 202
What should you know
The Chihuahua is a small dog with a huge personality. They are big barkers and will loudly alarm the owner if they see an intruder.
Chihuahuas are graceful, small, and compact dogs. These curious and willful little canines have an alert expression. They require a minimum of grooming and little exercise to stay healthy.
Chihuahuas have a reputation for being loud and snappy. Their personality and unique size make them a wonderful go-everywhere companion and guard dog for elders.
German Pinscher
Breed Overview
Breed Group: Working group
Temperament: Intelligent, Courageous, Vivacious
Average weight: 25-45 pounds
Average height: 17-20 inches
Lifespan: 12-14 years
AKC Breed Popularity Ranking: 134 of 202
What should you know
German Pinschers muscular, powerful, and graceful dogs. They are very smart dogs and have high intelligence and concentration levels. They are fearless, energetic, and athletic dogs.
German Pinscher is a strong-willed dog and is naturally suspicious of strangers. They will alert a strong, loud bark if they see a stranger or intruder.
The German Pinscher displays a courageous temperament. They were bred to hunt and kill vermin. Their courage, determination, and incredible spirit are renowned and that makes them superb guard dogs. They will do anything to protect their owner if they feel like they are in danger.
Rottweiler
Breed Overview
Breed Group: Working group
Temperament: Loyal, Loving, Confident Guardian
Average weight: 95-135 pounds (male), 80-100 pounds (female)
Average height: 24-27 inches (male), 22-25 inches (female)
Lifespan: 9-10 years
AKC Breed Popularity Ranking: 8 of 202
What should you know
Red Rottweiler is a medium-to-large sized dog with a powerful built. The dog has abundant strength and a loving heart. Rotts are considered one of the oldest dog breed and were originally used to drive cattle and pull carts. These dogs have high energy and need regular exercise and physical activities to stay happy and healthy. They have a high prey drive and high barking potential.
They are intelligent, have good memory retention, and respond well to rewards and praise. This combo makes them very easy to train dogs.
What makes a good guard dog for seniors?
Before getting the best guard dog for elderly, it’s essential to consider the following:
- Temperament: Guard dogs for older people shouldn’t have very strong prey drive or aggression. While all dogs require physical and mental stimulation, some breeds are more gentle. The dog needs to be calm and affectionate with older people at all times. You need to choose a dog with the right balance of courage, loyalty, friendliness, affection, and aloofness. It would be ideal if the elder person interact with the dog first before finalizing the ownership.
- Size: There isn’t a perfect best size for older people. Generally, many elders thrive in the company of small to medium-sized dogs. Large and giant breeds can be a joy as well but they won’t be suitable for apartment dwellers.
- Grooming Requirements: Avoid dog breeds that are very difficult to groom. Also, it’s better to choose breeds that are low shedders.
- Energy level: A dog breed with a medium level of energy is best for older people. However, it generally depends on the preference of the senior owner. Breeds with moderate to low energy levels are easier to deal with. They don’t need too much exercise, physical activity, and playtime.
- Wanderlust potential: If possible, avoid dog breeds who are escape artists and have high wanderlust potential. Some breeds love to wander around and are not considered the best guard dogs for elderly. The dog should stay with its senior owners.
- Age: A dog’s age determines how much effort is needed. Puppies are generally more and are not much suitable for the elderly. Senior dogs are also not the best option for elders as they require a lot of medical care. Adult dogs who are already trained and socialized are best for elders. This way, senior owners won’t need to deal with the stress of medical issues, housebreaking, and other puppy-related needs.
- Barking: A guard dog for elders is trained to bark loudly when an intruder enters the house.
Pet parent tip: Avoid dog breeds that are prone to different types of medical conditions.
Final thoughts on guard dogs for elderly
Sharing homes with a dog is incredibly special. Dogs make elders laugh, give them company, keep them protected, and stay with them in all circumstances.
Dog ownership comes with many perks and responsibilities. Keep in mind that love and care are very important for four-legged canines. By becoming a dog parent, an elder person takes the responsibility for another life!
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