My sister sourced Seniors for seniors and they had 2 beautiful dogs older noone wanted them .Dad is stillvery active Mum not so much so the dogs fitted in well. Mostly always someone to walk them .Lots of love and loved inreturn .There attitude is give the best care and love and attention to the pet and they enjoy their aging until their end. instead of being put away or to sleepwhen they still have time too. All of our family myself 2 sisters and brother visit regularly so the pets get extended family attention pats ,loves and treats .

These are all personal decisions, member here can't help you, you must make this decision for yourself. Only you know things like how big will this dog get, what will he need, is it a house dog or a dog that needs to be outside, being active everyday? Many, many questions and only you have the answers..

I don’t think there should be an age limit. That is as long as they can still take care of the pet. If the time comes that they can’t hopefully a family member could help so the pet could stay with its owner and neither would have to miss the other and grieve.Edited 05-Jul-24 22:33pm

I think the benefits for seniors having a dog outweighs the risk. It keeps them from being lonely, gives them someone to love and care for. I have a teen in the neighborhood who walks my boys and picks up my yard for me. He also helps me bathe them. I have a Chiweenie and a Chihuahua which are a good size pet for me.

depends on the size of the dog and its exercise requirements. Don't get a border collie if you are over 50. Or,. adopt an old dog.

So long as the older person can still live and operate Independently then there should be No Age Limit. That being said, older people should take into account their Age and remember that should they suddenly get ill or die any pets they have will have to be re-housed. Today, many younger family members either do not want to have any pets or their living arrangements, unless you leave them your home!, don't make it feasible. To claim that "I have a Right to have a pet" is true but we have to temper that Right with practicallity and, not least, Thought and Compassion for the pet.

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as long as seniors have a backup plan when they pass to give dogs to upon their death so dogs have a good home to go to- any age is good age to have a dog.

I think people should have a dog until they die, they can get family to walk it if necessary.

As with a lot of things, it depends. Best friends forever: https://www.thedodo.com/patient-dog-walks-slowly-with-old-man-video-1722690596.html Edited 08-Jul-24 22:09pm

There is no age for seniors to have dogs. There is dog walkers to assist

Too many people have an ageist attitude! In a lot of cases, activities such as dog walking actually helps seniors to stay healthy by keeping active. Plus dogs are wonderful companions.

If there is someone who can take the dog in the event of a person passing away, then don't deprive them of the love an animal can bring to them. I've seen first hand how an animal, not just a dog, can bring joy to a person

An age limit shouldn't be set as everyone is different. I know people in their 40's who shouldnt have a dog due to mobility issues

Shouldn't be an age limit as long as either they can look after the doggo or have help.

At any age, young through elderly it is all about matching the pet to the person. At 60+ I am fit, probably more active than in my 20's when I was a uni camper. I walk with my shepherd round tracks and take annual hikes overnight (e.g. Tararuas). It is about fitness and ability. Match the pet to the person and there is no problem.

Old age is not the best option to raise a pet.

Not an age no

Due to my age I have decided to adopt a small dog in preference to a large dog like my previous 3 dogs. Someone I know has a Labrador dog and when he pulls she just lets him go so he does not injure her arm. The dog may have caused an accident since cars had to stop or slow down. I was disappointed with this person as she has done this a few other times. We know our limits as we become older but giving a dog a home with an older person may be a good thing. They are able to give the dog love and often a stable home.

Why should there be an age limit on dogs V seniors, pets of any sort or name, pets give the elderly a reason to keep them happy, fit, and in their right minds, if they can't walk their dog, there are volunteer's companies like here in my area " Poops" and dog care that comes to the home. I can not understand people that come up with these ideas, It should be up to the individual if they want a dog or not

I think owning a dog is subject to how physically fit you are at any age. I know people in their 50's that shouldn't own a dog. They are not fit and tend to be sick all the time. I, myself, am over 70 and I can jog my dog. I'm as fit as a fiddle and and intend staying that way for as long as I can.

it depends

Thank you Janni B - of course you're right.

Absolutely no age limit. As long as they are looked after. People can walk them for seniors. A lot of neglected dogs DO NOT BELONG TO SENIORS.

I think seniors should have pets because pets are compassionate. They are a good companion and when seniors require a companion, pets can fill this void.

No age limit, Susan. Enjoy your puppy!

Really ! I don't believe anyone is asking this question....pets can keep most people alive.

Dogs are great companions for seniors not to mention the health benefits. An age limit is unthinkable. My Dad is 90 and walks his blue heeler everyday. She keeps him active and healthy.

good on you Susan people look at things from their own point of view, when I retired I got a fish the little guy suits my life and that's his name The Little Guy, you got a puppy i am sure you know your boundaries and I am sure he will impact on your life for the better, again double thumbs up to you it's your life, and since when is 68 old

I am 72 and have just lost my dog to cancer - I miss him and could not put myself through another loss like his - but I would not like to have gone first and been worried about what would happen to him. But if people want a dog in their older years get an older dog from a shelter and give them some golden years.

I think the real trouble with any small animal and older people is the fact that they can become trip hazards. I have 5 cats and have had them for quite a few years but they do run in front of me and because I'm not looking at my feet I sometimes tread on them or they bump into my leg. I'm afraid that as I get older they just might trip me and I might break something.

It really depends more upon the health of the senior and the breed/temperament and age of the dog. I know of older people who were given puppies by their family and the seniors ended up with broken bones from tripping over the dogs. I live in a senior apartment complex and about half the seniors here have a pet (we are only supposed to have one small pet, but new management seems to be lax on that as large dogs are showing up with new residents as well as multiple cats.) I've observed that people with dogs tend to me the most social here because you meet people while walking your dog. They are also healthier because they have to walk the dog. For those that live alone, a pet keeps them company. I had a dog when I moved here but he died last summer at age 18. It was difficult for me to care for him his last 2 years of life as he got so picky, and he was also always tripping us and he couldn't run with me anymore. It would have been easier for me to care for his old age problems if I was retired.

My little Alby died in February, and I thought I could never recover from grief and sadness. I did not even think of getting another dog when my sister told me about 9-year-old Chester who was looking for a new home as his owners did not have the time to care for him. "Just a trial", I was told. They take him back if you can't manage. At my age (72), I would have never taken a puppy or a young dog. It would worry me too much what would happen to him if I died. Of course I kept Chester. Grief doesn't end with a new dog, but it certainly helps a lot.

I think it depends on the person. If you have the room, and can manage all the responsibilities age has nothing to do with it. I'm in my 50s but I have limited mobility and can't exercise a dog. I have a friend who's in her late 80's, who walks 2+ km every day, but she's not allowed a pet in her unit.

Dogs keep us moving and not all breeds need a walk around the park or block .Choose a senior dog for the senior person it s more about the companionship and the presence of not being lonely or a need for purpose there is no age limit if you choose carefully and ask family or friends if they are able to help if you need them to.

Actually I count my dogs as having kept me walking and not losing the ability to walk well into my 80s. No matter who you lose from your life, if you have a pet you are not alone!

I chose a dog just before I retired and then was fortunate enough to be given one by one of my fellow workers. We had both of them until sadly they died of old age. ll my life I have owned dogs, cats and even fresh water fish. I think they are all great de-stressors and I feel glad I was given the honour to care and love them. They have brought much joy and love of life to myself and partner.

NO PERSON SHOULD BE DEPRIVED OF A PET

I would never have a dog as I don't like cleaning up dog crap. But, dogs are good for security to try and deter burglars from home invasions. But keep them out side at night as they are needed .

I live in an area predominately retirees. Most have dogs. I see this as a positive thing. They fill a need. Also as an older person you have the time to spend your chosen pet,not leaving them alone all day to go to work. They offer security,companionship and unconditional love. If you are capable of looking after yourself and are financially able to provide for a pet then that's alot of boxes ticked. There are many suitable breeds of dog that are more appropriate than others. Not all need extensive physical activity.

There are dog lovers and then there are cat lovers. Seniors have the earned right to have whatever pet they want in their lives. And I don't care how old I get and I had to crawl to my front door to let the dog out each time. I have a siberian husky and adopted huskies in the past, my large yard is my dogs domain to run wild and knock himself out! My dogs have always had a blast with or without me. Have the appropriate pet, at the right stage that you love. Pets help you live happier life, specially DOGS!

Depends on the individual and depends on the breed of dog. Cats are easier to care for but they also live a lot longer than dogs so that should be considered also. I know a number of people in their 80s who are still out and about with their dogs each day, very healthy and active. Have also noticed a lot more seniors adopting greyhounds, which I think is a great idea. Obviously someone older probably wouldn't be out getting an active working breed puppy, in most cases that wouldn't be suitable. But an appropriate breed for an older person is great, and remember people are living a lot longer nowadays.

Exactly what you said - find a dog walker.

No such age. People should be free to do what they need and have enough sense to know when to do what.

Any age is good to have a dog. People of all ages have assistance dogs. What would a blind person do if they were classed as old but still be able enough to get around. It helps people feel needed. Regardless stick to your guns and keep a puppy or two or as many you feel capable of looking after. Only your know your limits and capabilities.

Seniors should have pets as long as they're physically able to care for them. Cats are easy, but you have to bend down to scoop the litter, and possible throw-up. If no pets are in the house, adopt an older cat which may not be so rowdy and possibly run in front of you, causing a fall. A bird might be nice, especially a singing canary. Not too much work except to change the paper at the bottom of the cage. If you adopt a cat or dog, make sure there is someone who is able to care for it in case you can no longer care for it or if you die.

I will have a dog till the day I die and if I am unable to walk my dog I'm sure my grand daughter will

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They should always have pets, it keeps them alive!! Family are crap in most instances. There are people who can walk your pet and help to maintain them.

Somebody told my just recently that there is a huge demand for dog walkers. My neighbour told me the other day that she bought a pram for her dog. This is mainly due to her having a neck operation soon and didn't want to put any strain on her neck. I has never heard of such a thing. Lo and behold I came across someone this morning with her King Charles Cavalier in a specially designed pram for a dog. It had a basket beneath it for odds and ends. It would be good to lean on if some days you need a bit of support.

Y a pas d'âge tant qu'ont peux s'en occuper et bien les traiter.

If you cannot walk far there are always people or kids who love to walk them for you, so go ahead and enjoy a furry little love bundle.They are unconditional with how much they love you and will be a great friend no matter what!Edited 04-Jul-24 15:10pm

A dog is great for an elderly person. Different breeds have different needs...

So if you get a puppy at 68, changes are the dog will outlive you. Do you have plans for that eventuality or will the dog end up in the pound. Dogs are fine, not puppiesEdited 04-Jul-24 14:47pm

We would never be without a dog, they provide great company and seem to know when we are not well. We normally get rescue dogs and are lucky to have family to help out where necessary.

I think seniors should have pets at every age. There are programs through shelters to help pay for food, litter, vet, and to help look after them in the senior’s home, if necessary. They provide love and companionship and have been proven to contribute to good health.

I think it depends on the persons abilities.

Depends on the breed of dog. Great Danes for instance only require a bed to get all the exercise that they will ever need and that is getting on and off the bed where they prefer to sleep all day and night. Little barky things are a different story though they need to expend lots of energy and run you ragged so all I can suggest it It All Depends on the Breed of Dog.

Those people need to mind their own business, as long as you can look after the dog and have someone walk it good on you, you need a dog for companionship. I went through the same thing but ignored everyone as it is your choice. I am sure you will give the dog as much love as it will give you.

You keep your dog We are 86 & 90yrs & we will adopt a dog 5-7yrs old we can throw a ball & somehow dogs are canny they seem to know you are not as active & older We recently lost our staffy he was 14yrs & badly missed .Also you can get someone who is a dog( walker!! )go online & ignore those people .It may have not been wise to get a puppy You need someone who will take your pup if anything were to happen to you . but at 68yrs you are still a young woman .Good luck to you Susan

There is NO age that seniors shouldn't have and enjoy a dog as a pet! Especially as one ages and has less contact with other people - a pet - and especially a dog - is a wonderful companion and true family member!

I think it’s up to the individual to decide and also what suits your current and future lifestyle and living arrangements. Definitely a walker and pet minder would be a great help. If you have a trusted friend or family member who can take on long term care if needed I feel this is a realistic thing to consider. I think this way and I am young it can happen to anyone. Hope you enjoy your new dog and you know what is best and manageable for you.

It's really not a question of age, it's more important to question the pet caretaker's ability to provide the amount of care that the pet needs. My husband and I adopted a very lively little dog one year ago. He had been rehomed by an elderly couple that couldn't deal with 2 young dogs. We are 71 and 72 and he can be a handful at times but it's good for me especially, since I broke my leg a couple of years ago. He's my therapy dog. He is so lovable and loves to snuggle and play with his toys.Edited 04-Jul-24 13:43pm

Depends on the dog and the person

I see most people at any age cannot have pets even a fish bowl would have floating fish then some would look after there friends with great care.

My mom is 78 and got a dog a little over a year ago. Really bad idea. She doesn’t have the patience to deal with her and says dog food is too expensive so she feeds her mostly human food. I’d take the dog if I could but I’m disabled and she would be too large for me to be able to handle.

My husband is 82 and I am 80. We thought we were too old for dogs but 9 years ago my husband had a minor stroke and got very depressed. he wanted another dog and although we realised it meant an end to holidays and would limit our lifestyle, it was our best decision ever. His depression lessened and he became more active. So we got another and they are our lives now. My daughter will have them if anything happens to us . Last year I had four major surgeries and my beautiful dogs slept or sat beside me each time I was recovering and their love is so precious. They are now 9 and 8 years old so have become seniors, so us becoming a bit slower is OK too. We won't put them in kennels again because they grieved so much for us while there. Check with your family to ensure your dog will be cared for should you become unable to cope but go ahead. Get your dog and start the next stage of your life together.

TY AGAIN Mopos,have a great time...

No age limit! Many seniors have lost their loved one and a dog is the best comfort and friend one could ever have.

I’m over 60 and baby Yoda is 5 months old… I’m not disabled in any way , still work full time and yet people have questioned me also about being to old to raise him ….

Do what you feel is right for you Susan . N.B. Dog walkers are plentiful these days. Enjoy your pet and do not listen to naysayers. Best wishes.

never

Gosh I'm over 80 and still walking my dog for an hour a day. It all depends on your health, if you have good health you should be able to walk a dog. However, if you have bad health and want a dog as a pet, there are dog walker available in most areas. Why should an older, maybe on their own, not have the company of a dog!

Up to you don't listen to Noone. You never to old to have pets. As long you get a animal that is basic your life style. Same dog don't needed a lots of walking and same do. As long you get the right dog you ok. End of the days it's your life and don't listen to them.

I think that you're pushing too hard. Lets not think about not being able to exercise the dog, but what if you pass away? Who's going to look after the animal then? As long as you can exercise the dog and pick up its poop, then go for it.

There are dogs out there that can suit almost anyone. Some little dogs are happy not being walked, people can always adopt a senior dog as well. If you are physically able and have the energy for a puppy then go for it. If circumstances change I'm sure there will be options like dog walkers but you can cross that bridge if you get to it.

TY AND HI Mopos

As far as I am concerned, there is no age limit ..... animals I feel, give you a new lease on life PLUS they give you unconditional love and what is better than the love/devotion from a pet! 💓

You are the only one to decide when having a dog is to much for you. If you are an active person walking the dog won't be a problem, it will keep you and the dog fit. Also if you have neighbours with children you could always ask if they may want to earn a few dollars by walking the dog if you can't. You will get pleasure and a loving companion from your dog and as you get older it is something to treasure.

Why people rely so much on other people’s opinions…? If it works for you then that’s all that matters.

Yep, definitely, on the day that they stop living. The pet friend will keep them living longer……lol

I live by myself in Canberra and I have a pet dog (free to good home) and I walk here when I can.I am partially disabled BUT my shitsu-maltese terrier cross is great company.....wouldnt swap her at all...I am a senior

My uncle walked daily and his memory was sharp until he died well into his 90s. As long as the owner can take care of the dog there is no age limit whatsoever. I plan to have a dog for the rest of my life hopefully. My dog's vet gives a generous discount to senior owners who have pets. Pets help people live longer, lowering their blood pressure. and good for their mental health.

Have heaps of fun with your puppy, take lots of photos because they don't stay puppies for long. We have 2 smaller breeds, our oldest is 15 and the younger one is now 6. Gosh time has gone fast. The younger one gave the older one a new lease of life and he's still going strong. Mind you he sleeps on the bed with me all day and as soon as we want to go to sleep he wants out. Oh well the joys of pet ownership. Wouldn't have it any other way as they are our family.

Guess it depends on the size of the dog. My Dad is 85 and he walks his dog twice a day and a few times a week he goes for a 10k walk and he takes his dog too. My parents got the dog for free as that is just what happened a lady inherited the dog as a family split up and she couldn't handle the dog so she found some one ie Dad who wanted a dog. He is a larger breed and Mum has trouble handling him but he really is Dad's dog. He's a bit over weight as you would be horrified what Dad feeds him. Dogs are apart of the family and they are very good for mental health and getting people out and exercising. I had an Aunt in the UK and it was the neighbours that realised she hadn't been out to walk her little dog that some one did a welfare check and she had passed sadly. Otherwise who knows how long she could have been dead in her house for.

Whiskey Tango foxtrot? Seriously???

If seniors have a dog that they can manage physically, then age is no factor. Having a young, boisterous, large dog that needs lots of exercise when a person can barely manage to walk themselves is just stupid at ANY age. I think seniors are smart enough to know what they can and can't cope with. Anybody who can't walk their dog regularly can surely ask a kindly neighbor or pay a 'dog walker'.

I understand problem with walking dogs. I am 74 & have a border collie rescue dog 12yo who I walk every day. In Perth WA there is an organisation with volunteers who walk dogs for seniors called Poops, (Pets of Older Persons).

You will be too old when you are dead.

For some their dog (or cat) is the only lifeline they have in regard to company, friendship, and love...Don't let the people questioning your decision spoil your enjoyment, tell them to mind their own business and enjoy your new little buddy who will love you back unconditionally and bring you much joy...

There should not be an age as I see it if you are alone an animal is companionship. It's your dog your life people shouldn't be questioning you. If you can't walk the dog get someone else to walk the dog and spend time inside with it.

Susan, I wish for you and that puppy to grow old together.... 68 is NOT old.... my mom just turned 89 this past Friday, still kicking butt and taking names, she is... you do the same!! :)

when you can't take care of them anymore, try to get someone to adopt the pet,,but keep them as long as possible, they help keep us alive 😊

When they start to trip over them

Ii am in my early 60's and have two young, large dogs. I am still fit enough to walk them 10km per day and have room in my yard to throw a stick or a ball for them. However, I have already decided that my next dog/s will be smaller breeds with lower fitness requirements, and depending on my health, maybe a senior dog as well. I have had dogs all my life and can not bear to think about not having one. We do not have cats, not because we don't like them, but because we live in an area with lots of endangered native birds. I have planned for my dogs in my will, after consulting with my family, so they don't become another person's problem, should I meet my end earlier than I anticipate.

I have a real problem with the word "should". There are no rules. I had a 90 year old client living alone, still driving and completely mobile and capable. She adopted a cat. Any home with love is perfect for a pet regardless how old you are as long as you are capable of looking after them.

As long as the dogs can be well looked after and there is a backup from family and friends why should there be an age limit on having dogs. Puppies can be more demanding but you could adopt a rescue dog. Cats are good companions too but they still require their litter tray cleaning every day. Life for me would not be the same without my dogs. They are my companions and therapy. Two wonderful greyhounds adopted me ❤️🐾🐾❤️

Pets are great company, as long as there is no risk to the person or the animal there is no age limit!

sometimes pets are the only way the elderly receive affection. I too am 68 and more then capable of having a dog. If I were to get one I guess I would choose a smaller breed. Mainly because throwing a ball in a yard would provide plenty of exercise. Animals don't ask for much and give so much. Tell your friends its nothing to do with them.

My friends Mum passed away two yrs ago at 104. She had her little dog till she was 99. Also had her license till 99. Tell your friend to mind her own business..