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My brother-in-law frequently sends me links to dog-related items he thinks will interest me. Recently, he sent me an msn.com link to "25 Dogs for Seniors."
I realize these lists are just for fun, but sometimes I'd like to write a rebuttal. For starters, "seniors" is just too broad a category. Are we talking 60-year-old seniors or 90-year-old seniors? First time dog owners or those who've had dogs their entire lives? Seniors who live in apartments, or seniors living on several acres?
Almost all the dogs in the list are small dogs, easy to pick up, and good for apartment living, but none would be suitable for my friends who, in their late 60s, regularly take to the field and hunt with their Labrador Retriever. I totally understand the emphasis on small dogs, but small dogs can easily trip you up, where that's not as much of a problem with a larger dog. Some larger breeds may even be a help to a senior who needs a bit of support for balance.
Many of the dogs on the list need grooming. (Shih Tzu, Keeshond, American Eskimo). There are several terriers on the list, whose coats also need attention. Are seniors with arthritis in their hands going to be able to groom their dogs or will they need to take the dogs to a groomer?
I'm a senior and Corgis are just right for me, but I know many people my age who compete in performance events, such as agility, or herding, with large, active dogs.
And, when I see Otterhound on the list, I want to ask the person who compiled the list, "What were you thinking?" Otterhounds are big, shaggy hunting dogs so you'd better be prepared to give him plenty of exercise. Also, this is not a common dog. Worldwide, there are only between 600 and 800. According to the American Kennel Club, they are more rare than the giant panda. Assuming that you had your heart set on an Otterhound, getting one could take quite a while, and trust me, the price would eat up several social security checks.
Another relatively uncommon dog on the list is the Biewer (pronounced Beaver) terrier. These dogs are often compared to Yorkshire Terriers. Frequent grooming and you'd have to search for a breeder.
Another point that puzzled me on this list was that they listed the average price for a puppy. Some of the prices seemed correct, but others were way off. The list had Lowchen puppies going for $400. I would be highly suspicious of a Lowchen puppy that was being offered at that price. A reputable breeder would like be asking at least three times that much.
I know these lists are just for fun, but I worry that there might be someone out there, who's just retired, has never had a dog before, and now thinks that this would be a good time to get one. Any person should research breeds but what if my hypothetical senior sees the list and decides to make his choice from that list. What if he chooses the Shiba Inu? I love Shibas, but the comment on the list says they are "moderately easy to train." Define "moderately." Shibas are very smart but they also can be a bit stubborn. They're more independent than, say, a Shih Tzu.
The list doesn't really get into energy level, either. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are strong, playful dogs. Is my unsuspecting senior going to be ready for that? An Irish Terrier is going to need plenty of exercise as well and, while both types of Corgi, the Pembroke and the Cardigan, can enjoy a cuddle on the couch, they also need some daily exercise and something to keep their mind occupied.
What if my active senior wants a companion for his 10-mile walks? Let's hope he doesn't choose a Tibetan Spaniel. I love these dogs, but they aren't hikers. A Dalmatian might be better for that, but, unfortunately, Dalmatians aren't on the list.
As someone who loves dogs, but knows that not every dog is right for every person, the lists make me uneasy. If you're considering a dog, research breeds. Talk to other owners. Even if you want a mixed breed, learn about the dogs that went into the mix. Think about your lifestyle and how you feel about shedding. What will your dog cost each week, or month? Enjoy on-line lists and quizzes but don't depend on them when you're choosing a canine pal.