Finding Your Soul Dog in the Middle Years
Rick and I have been talking about (and around) getting a dog. We were at a friend’s home and they had two sweeties who were more than happy to let us give them attention. Even though we’re retired, we’re pretty active and would have no trouble exercising a dog, but it would be nice to know which breeds are suited for our stage of life. Today, guest blogger Casey Dickson showcases some breeds suited for active adults. Casey is a Rover.com community member. Rover is the nation’s largest network of 5-star pet sitters and dog walkers.
Four Dog Breeds Suited for Active Adults
Part of your research in finding a dog means finding one that will jive well with your lifestyle. For individuals and couples in their 40s and 50s who still enjoy many of the same activities they always did, but employ a slower pace of life, it’s important to seek out a pup that won’t demand constant high-energy exercise. We’ve investigated a few different types of furry friends who may just be perfect for the balanced lifestyle of the 40-to-50-year-old bracket.
Bernese Mountain Dogs
The sweet and fluffy Bernese Mountain Dog, commonly nicknamed Berners, is characterized by a calm, sweet, family-loving temperament. Berners love a moderate amount of exercise but aren’t constantly bouncing off the walls, meaning that they’re more than eager to join their owners on a hike, long walk, or trip to the dog park — but when family is kicked back and relaxing at home, they have no complaints about doing the same.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers are remarkably affectionate, personable, and adaptable to a variety of different lifestyles. While compact and light at 13-18 pounds, they can certainly handle a scenic hike or brisk 2-mile run. Otherwise they love to hang out with their people and tend to be very cuddly and calm at home.
Norwich Terrier
Don’t let the compact size of the Norwich fool you — these wiry little friends can more than handle a medium-difficulty hike, and come alive when they get a chance to romp around outside unleashed. Curious, friendly, and mild-mannered, Norwich Terriers love to be in the company of their family, so they adapt well to both city and country living situations. They’re easily-trained and very low-maintenance. (Check out a short video about these cuties)
Shiba Inu
These nimble pups are marked by a strong and loyal personality. Originally bred to hunt, they love to romp outside and go for brisk walks, and should be kept in a securely enclosed yard as to ward off escape artist tendencies. Given these traits, though, they are not by nature high-energy once they’ve gotten their long daily walk or hike (or exploration of any sort).
Of course, these options are not the end-all list. There are so many breeds and dog personalities out there — at least one for every lifestyle and level of activity. Certain dogs are tailored to specific activities, be it swimming, hiking, running, or a myriad of other kinds of explorations. So if you search based on your own interests and personality, you’re bound to find your perfect canine match that can more than keep up with you.
My best bet for a dog for anyone is a Pug. Kids, disabled, young, old, people with severe allergies or asthma (me), etc. I have been fostering a Shiba Inu mix for two yrs. His name is Buddy, and about the sweetest thing there is. His fur is very short. I found they’re very independent, not seeming to want a bunch of affection like my pug, our Boston Terrier, and even our labs. This dog gets a grin on his face whenever he sees anyone coming. He loves people. He likes to get out of his big run/enclosure run around for 5-10 mins, go to the bathrm, then he goes straight back to the door in. He waits to be let back in. He loves walks, runs, treats, and cooler weather. He reminds me of a husky or sweet shepherd. He was kept outdoors his whole life and was also severely beaten, and yet he loves people. You do have to keep a Shiba leashed or in an enclosure at least 4-5 ft high, but Buddy never tries to get out. He never barks, but when I tried to keep him in my back yard where he could see another dog, he’d howl, like a coyote or Husky. On my friend’s farm, he never makes a peep. He would be happy inside our house if we didn’t have a very aggressive Boston T, who tries to boss and fight with every dog. Another abuse case. If you are a Shiba lover or are interested in meeting Buddy, please let us know. Fixed, on heartworm preventative, sweet 38-lb dog. A Shiba would be good for a middle aged or retired person who can make sure a door to the outside is never left open for their Shiba to run away. They will be gone for days, maybe weeks. They cannot control their urge to run or find prey. No cats. My opinion.
Thanks for the recommendation and input, Robbie Lane. Your work with fostering unwanted pets is invaluable.