As a retiree, do you really have the energy it takes to keep up with a super active dog? Do you have all the financial resources it takes to take care of a dog that needs frequent visits to the grooming salon or the veterinary? You should also consider whether you might end up in a retirement home that only allows certain dogs.
Without further delay, here are 20 dog breeds that are least suited to retirees.
20. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are high energy dogs that require a lot of exercise. They’re also quite destructive indoors if you don’t give them enough outdoor time. Finally, they can be stubborn and difficult to train as well as fearful or aggressive, depending on their lineage.
19. Jack Russel Terrier
Terriers are bundles of boundless energy and are high-maintenance dogs.
18. German Shorthaired Pointer
To put it simply, if you’re not into daily 5-mile runs, this isn’t the breed for you. This dog likes to run a lot.
17. English Springer Spaniel
Not only are the English Springer Spaniel high-energy dogs, but they also need considerable grooming. All in all, not an ideal breed to have when your retire.
16. Beagle
Beagles tend to be stubborn and obstinate. They also have a tendency to howl and bay, in addition to shedding a lot and having a very distinct odor. Not ideal if you are living in an apartment or senior living facility, where you have neighbors in close proximity.
15. Irish Setter
Here is a dog that is energetic, difficult to train and high maintenance. Oh, and it can’t be left alone much. And it doesn’t have that good of a health. Do we need to keep going?
14. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are runners that need daily exercise. They shed constantly too.
13. Airdale Terrier
Here is another dog that needs to be active to be happy.
12. Afghan Hound
That coat is gonna require constant grooming and you know it. In addition, this is a high-energy breed.
11. Basenji
Yet another breed that requires lots of activity and playtime to be happy.
10. Labrador Retriever
Labs are high-energy dogs for most of their lives.
9. Australian Cattle Dog
These dogs are happiest in large open spaces with a job to do.
8. Border Collie
Here is a breed that is very active, and so smart it needs constant mental stimulation as well.
7. Bearded Collie
Bearded Collies find themselves on this list because they require a lot of grooming.
6. Australian Shepherd
Up next, Australian Shepherds demand attention for 12 hours a day to be happy and are extremely active. Is that really how you want to live your retirement?
5. Pit Bull Terrier
Yes, Pit Bulls have a bad reputation, but it’s not up to you to change that. They need a lot of exercise, training, socialization and strong leadership.
4. Akita
Just like their Pit Bull friends, Akitas need exercise, socialization, training and strong leadership from their owners, without which they can become aggressive.
3. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are large, powerful dogs requiring firm leadership and training. In addition, they are unsuitable for apartment living.
2. Golden Retriever
Now that you are a retiree, will you be able to provide all the love, attention and exercise this lovely dog needs on a daily basis?
1. Collie
Last but not least, a Lassie wannabe requires a lot of brushing and grooming. And vacuuming too, to be honest.
