One of the best things about retirement is enjoying opportunities and experiences that may not have been available before; many people find fulfillment and joy in adopting a pet now that they have the time and energy to devote to a new companion. There are many benefits to adopting a pet, and dogs can help you stay active, meet new friends, and maintain a healthy routine, among other benefits. With so many wonderful breeds available to adopt, it can be tough to decide what type of dog will best fit your lifestyle. Here are six dog breeds that may be the perfect fit for a retired couple!
1. Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers are known to be active, friendly dogs and may be the perfect fit for retirees who enjoy running, hiking, or swimming. Once their physical needs are met, they tend to be calm and loving companions who love nothing more than cuddling up with their owners on the couch. They are known to be easy to train, eager to please, and highly attuned to the needs of others; many therapy dogs visiting hospitals and long term care Washington state are Goldens.
Photo by Milica Popovic: https://www.pexels.com/photo/portrait-photo-of-persian-greyhound-1573919/
2. Greyhounds
If you love rescues and have an enclosed yard, a retired racing greyhound may be a good fit for you. Despite their reputation as some of the fastest dogs around, greyhounds are generally quiet and calm in the home. Gentle, friendly, and sensitive, these dogs have quick bursts of energy that can be released through play in the backyard or a walk but would otherwise be happy to spend some quality quiet time with their owners.
3. Pugs
Pugs don’t require a lot of exercise, so if mobility is an issue for you, they may be an ideal companion. They are known to be affectionate, loyal, and friendly and are often highly devoted to their owners; their clownish antics and adorable faces are sure to make you smile every time you look at them! While pugs are smaller dogs, they are known to be relatively quiet and don’t bark often. However, many do tend to snore during their frequent naps.
4. Poodles
A tried and true companion breed, poodles are known for being extremely easy to train thanks to their high intelligence. Their high trainability makes common challenges like potty training much more manageable and also allows you to bond with them while teaching them new tricks and skills. Poodles are excellent dogs for couples because they are often very affectionate with their whole family, rather than becoming dedicated to just one person. They are generally loving, gentle, and sweet animals. They do best with a daily walk, but there are three sizes to choose from (standard, toy, or miniature) so you can find one with an energy level that best fits your available time and energy.
5. Pomeranians
Pomeranians have extremely fluffy coats that require frequent maintenance, so if you find grooming a pet relaxing, or live near an experienced groomer, they may be the dog for you. Poms are known to be lively, affectionate, and intelligent but can be a little too curious for their own good and would do best with a couple that can devote lots of time and energy to them. They can also be strong-willed and prone to barking, so they will need gentle, firm, and consistent leadership from both partners to ensure they don’t become too unruly.
6. Shih Tzu
For a companion that is happiest just being by your side, look no further than the Shih Tzu. These small dogs thrive on attention and affection. They often get along well with many different people and pets, so they can be a great addition to almost any household. They are also very adaptable, making them lap dogs that can go just about anywhere with you. While they are known to be quite playful and silly, they do not have extremely high energy levels and can thrive on just a short daily walk.
photo credit:
https://unsplash.com/photos/lQ8WvR54MOU
Photo by Leah Kelley: https://www.pexels.com/photo/adult-cream-golden-retriever-sitting-on-grass-field-325519/
Photo by Milica Popovic: https://www.pexels.com/photo/portrait-photo-of-persian-greyhound-1573919/
https://unsplash.com/photos/2s2TPxBIxGc
https://unsplash.com/photos/7CLiCswRA4M
https://unsplash.com/photos/5QcwI4oxL6g
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