Plenty of us decided to welcome new four-legged friends into our homes in the last couple of years – according to Kennel Club figures dog ownership soared by nearly eight percent – and post-lockdown demand for puppies remains high.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
One thing worth considering before making a decision is that some breeds make better companions for the more elderly owner – needing less in the way of exercise or grooming and tending to be chilled and relaxing pets.
So, here are the 10 best and worst breeds of dog to consider when it comes to older dog-lovers.
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9. Labrador Retriever
It may be the most popuklar dog breed in the world, but the Labrador Retriever can present a challenge for older owners. While Labs will make for loyal and loving pets they really need a large amound to exercise to be happy and healthy. If there's even the slightest doubt that you can't supply this throughout the dog's life, it's worth looking at other breeds. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
10. Beagle
The Beagle is a breed that is very much a pack animal, so tend to do better with families where they get plenty of attention and socialising time. They also have a very distinctive smell which can cause issues, as well as being one of the more vocal dogs - with howling and barking very much to be expected. These are not easy animals. Photo: Canva/Getty Images