The dog has been man's companion for about ten thousand years. All this time she was his guard, a faithful ally on the hunt, herded cattle and even nursed children. Human life changed, and with it the dog’s life. In today's fast-paced world, where everyone is on the run and there is a lack of live communication, the dog is given a new important role - a companion for humans.
What are companion dogs?
Some time ago there was an opinion that a dog should not live in a cramped apartment. And they didn’t want to let her into a private house. It was believed that a friend's place was on the street.
Over time, a person became more lonely and began to need a living being who would share his hobbies and who would need to be taken care of. What animals can be classified as companion dogs? Strictly speaking, any dog can become one. It all depends on what image is inherent in the owner and where he lives.
Of course, in a city, the easiest way is to live side by side with a small decorative breed dog. Let's look at the pros and cons of dogs of different sizes.
Bottom line
We hope that this article will help you in choosing a companion dog for yourself. Don't forget that a dog is a man's friend. Think a hundred times before adopting a dog. So that later, due to lack of time, or an unsuitable lifestyle, you do not have to give it away.
Dogs understand everything and feel the same as we do, but they can’t say it.
Do you already have a four-legged friend? Or are you just planning to get a dog? If we missed something in the article, you can add it in the comments. We are interested in your opinion. You can post photos of your pets and talk about their antics.
Small dogs
Undoubtedly, it is most convenient to get a small dog. They are very easy to keep: they do not need long walks, frequent washing and large amounts of food. They are mobile; owners often appear with such dogs in stores, shopping centers and other places where dogs are prohibited from entering.
Although many do not consider such dogs to be full-fledged, they are man’s true friends and companions. They are loyal, love their owners and, despite their small size, are ready to defend themselves.
But there are also disadvantages. Of course, such a dog cannot be used as a full-fledged home guard. Keeping animals of this breed is quite expensive. This includes constant care and pickiness in choosing food. In addition, on the street such pets are often offended and injured by other dogs.
Purpose
The main purpose of companions is to share the interests of the owner: daily long runs through the forest, long car trips or lying on the sofa. Man and dog receive only positive emotions from communicating with each other. Dog therapy, also called canine therapy, is a method of alternative medicine. What health problems can you get rid of by communicating with a dog? Normalize blood pressure, cheer up, awaken interest in life - all this is possible for both a simple mongrel and a titled dog. Four-legged companions are widely used for the socialization and adaptation of children with autism.
The doors of the entertainment industry are opening to people with four-legged pets. Restaurants, fitness clubs, cinemas for visitors with animals are no longer uncommon.
Medium size dogs
The advantage of such dogs is their life expectancy. It lasts longer than in small and large animals. Their medium size allows them to be a good defender of their owners, and not become a victim of attacks by most dogs on the street. As a general rule, medium-sized companion dogs get along well with children.
Cons : they require constant walking, frequent washing and constant grooming, and leave a lot of dirt in the home.
This doesn't mean that a large dog can't be great company. Even dogs that are commonly called fighting dogs can be suitable for this role. As a rule, large animals have developed zoo aggression. This means that you will additionally need to take training courses and constantly be on your toes to control your pet.
When choosing pets as companions, first of all, you need to take into account what other functions the breed will perform, whether there are children in the family, and suitable living conditions.
Labrador Retriever
An obedient dog can evoke only positive emotions, so owners often turn a blind eye to their pranks and pranks. Labradors love human company, learn quickly and help their owner. Labriks' talents are multifaceted - they:
- brave rescuers;
- brave hunters;
- skilled guides;
- friendly companions.
For apartment
Living in apartments dictates its own rules for choosing a dog. After all, you will need to move with it around the entrance and yard, where a large number of people and dogs find themselves every day.
Requirements for a companion dog that will live in apartment conditions:
- Small or medium size;
- Calm temperament, with a weak guard instinct. A constantly barking companion dog, protecting its home from every rustle, will add problems in relations with neighbors;
- It is better to choose breeds of smooth-haired dogs.
In a small room, if one of the family members has allergies, you need to choose one that sheds little and does not have wings from which drool drips.
As a dog for apartment keeping we can recommend: Spitz, Jack Russell Terrier, Dachshund, Chinese Crested, Sheltie, Toy Terrier.
Shih Tzu
This cute miniature dog looks like a toy, nature has made it so cute. Its fur on its face grows from the center to the edges, so they are considered the chrysanthemums of the dog world. Proud posture and direct gaze make you be proud of your pet and conform to it. Attentive and flexible dogs are easy to train and achieve success. A breed that was once kept only by Chinese emperors is now available to everyone.
For the elderly
Older people are more likely than others to need a companion dog. But, even if the future owners are in good health, this can change at any moment. Then the pet will sit at home without a long walk. Without relieving his energy, he will begin to misbehave at home.
When choosing a dog for an elderly person, consider:
- the breed does not need much physical activity;
- the dog must have a good disposition and no aggression;
- The dog should love attention from humans.
The following breeds are suitable as dogs for an elderly person: Shih Tzu, Pekingese, Scotch Terriers, Miniature Poodle.
Bichon Frize (French lapdog)
The white and fluffy French lap dog is always happy, she gives warmth and love to those around her every moment of her life. The affectionate sissy is faithful and devoted to her family, loves to play and attract attention.
Bichons are created to give a smile and a good mood.
This charming creature will decorate any home.
For a child
When choosing an animal that will become a child’s friend for many years, you should be especially attentive and careful. What is needed is a breed that can be a tireless companion in fun games, can become a guard and has a sufficient life expectancy.
In addition, such companion dogs must be devoid of aggression, both towards other animals and humans. A dog companion for a child should be a compromise between a playmate and a guard.
What is required from such a dog:
- Cheerful disposition and constant readiness to play;
- They love long walks. An additional bonus of having a dog will be the education of responsibility for a living creature.
The following breeds are recommended to keep a child company: Labrador, Giant Schnauzer, French Bulldog,
.
West Siberian Laika – friendly and cheerful
The West Siberian Laika breed completes our top 10 most loyal dogs in the world. Such a dog is simply the dream of all hunters and the best companion, devoted to his owner. Calm and mischievous, the husky is always ready to play - with people or other dogs. With proper upbringing, the dog will become a real protector, ready to give his life for his owner.
Did you know that a husky is capable of a feat, saving a person’s life? Thus, a dog named Sobolko, during a bear attack, managed to distract the formidable beast, and at that time the hunter was able to shoot. Undoubtedly, for every dog owner, his pet is the best, faithful and devoted friend. Who did you like the most?
For security
Often a companion dog is left at home alone and is required to perform a guard function. In this case, it would be better to choose a large or medium breed dog. Such an animal should be family-oriented or one-owner, wary, but without causeless aggression, and treat strangers.
Most often, service dogs are adopted as guard dogs. When choosing an animal for protection, the owner must understand what he expects from the dog: a warning about danger or full-fledged security actions.
The breed must have:
- calm disposition, wary attitude towards strangers;
- unquestioning obedience to the owner, ability to learn;
- energetic temperament.
Recommended breeds: Shepherd dogs: Alabai, South Russian Shepherd, German Shepherd, Hungarian Shepherd, Airedale Terrier, Boxer, Doberman, Jack Russell Terrier.
Basset Hound
A lazy aristocrat with sad eyes is actually:
- ready to show his working qualities as a hound;
- has a sharp mind;
- remembered externally.
The squat and imposing gentleman is suitable for calm people with a measured life - this is an excellent dog for lying on the couch and watching TV. The Basset is a frequent character in commercials, but by nature it is a modest and balanced dog, distinguished by its goodwill and loyalty.
The best companion dogs
Despite the fact that each owner must choose companion dogs “for himself”, based on living conditions, there are breeds in the world that are considered the best universal dogs for company.
Let's list them:
- Poodle. These dogs are officially recognized as the smartest in the world. Kind, energetic, not picky about food. The poodle's coat requires special attention;
- Cocker spaniels. Medium sized dog, loves kids. Loves long walks;
- Collie. Very smart dogs, kind and affectionate. Convenient as companions for busy people;
- Labrador. The world's favorite dog. Versatile as companions. The breed does not bark much and loves children. But he will be an excellent companion for an elderly person. Due to its large size, it is difficult to keep in apartments. A large dog, but does not dominate the family and will accept a person of any character as a leader;
- Beagle. An excellent companion for a child. Not aggressive, very active and energetic. Training with such a dog is possible for a school-age child;
- Sheepdog. There are legends about the loyalty of the breed. It must be taken into account that she will choose one leader, and will consider the rest of the family members as a flock. She is ready to sacrifice her life to protect her family;
- Chinese Crested. Among small dogs, it is considered one of the best as a company dog. Although, it is not as common as other breeds. For example, Yorkshire Terrier. She is devoted to her owner all her life;
- French Bulldog. This breed is suitable for apartment living and gets along well with children.
Note that this list can be supplemented with many more breeds. After all, any dog can become a wonderful companion. This can be either a bull terrier or a huge cane corso. You just need to take a more responsible approach to his upbringing from the earliest days and take into account all the nuances of the breed.
If you don’t have confidence in your abilities yet, it’s better to choose a companion dog from categories that have enjoyed well-deserved fame in this field for many years.
German Shepherd – the standard of devotion
The ranking of the most loyal dogs is opened by the German Shepherd, whose ancestors are considered to be wolves of the Bronze Age. The first breeder of this breed was Captain von Stefanitz, and the world learned about the German Shepherd in 1882, at the Hanover Exhibition. The main advantages of the dog are exceptional devotion, intelligence, courage, and good fighting qualities. In addition, it is a reliable guide for the blind, as well as a watchman and protector of the owner’s property. However, the dog’s character is not aggressive - if such traits do appear, this is rather a cost of upbringing.
Did you know that during World War II, German shepherds successfully “worked” as messengers, signalmen, orderlies and sappers? Many seriously wounded soldiers were able to survive only thanks to these four-legged heroes, who found and pulled them out of the battlefield.
Briefly about the main thing
- A dog for company should be chosen taking into account the living conditions of the future owner;
- It is better to choose small or medium-sized animals for your apartment;
- Energetic and non-aggressive breeds that love long walks are suitable for children;
- Elderly people need affectionate, non-aggressive dogs as companions;
- Medium or large-sized dogs are chosen as guards, seriously training the pet;
- There is a list of the best companion dogs. But he is conditional and any dog can become a companion for life.
Pug
A decorative dog, from ancient times accustomed to living hand in hand with a person. A noble breed with a balanced character and a pure soul is wholeheartedly attached to its owner. In China, the wrinkles on a pug's forehead are believed to resemble hieroglyphs and are considered an imperial mark. The cheerful, friendly dog will find an approach and get along with any person. Pugs are funny and attractive, and they snore rather cutely in their sleep.
Poodle
Smart, friendly and versatile, the poodle is one of the most recognizable dog breeds. All three sizes of poodles—standard, miniature, and toy—make excellent companion dogs. They are all quite energetic, with the Standard Poodle requiring more exercise than its smaller cousins.
As such, larger poodles tend to make better companions for people with active lifestyles, while smaller poodles tend to be great for those who enjoy walking around the neighborhood.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, sometimes called “Velcro dogs,” often become very attached to their people. Originally bred to hunt small game, today's dachshunds are better known for burrowing deep under the covers than down rabbit holes.
Available in both standard and miniature sizes, the Dachshund has an animated personality and loves to keep an eye out for intruders on his lawn. He will also often follow his loved one from room to room and can't wait for them to sit down and snuggle together.
List of breeds
Among modern dog breeds you can find many that fit the definition of a companion. How to make the final decision and make the right choice? Which dogs are the best among the small, medium and large varieties? A detailed review will help you figure it out.
Little ones
Not every small breed can be a good companion. However, there are decorative and simply compact dogs that easily find contact with humans. Among the leaders in the list of the most sociable kids in the dog world you can find these.
- Pugs. These charming homebodies are perfect for keeping in a city apartment; both children and pensioners adore them. The pet does not require complex care; it becomes very attached to its owner and shows miracles of good nature. With reasonable dietary restrictions, pugs are quite capable of living more than 15 years.
Sources:
https://kotsobaka.com/sobaki/porody-s/kompaniony.html https://www.adme.ru/zhizn-semya/10-luchshih-porod-sobak-dlya-semi-s-detmi-ne-samyj -ochevidnyj-vybor-2079665/ https://vplate.ru/sobaki/kompanony/
Schnauzer
The active dog is an intellectual - he quickly masters commands and adapts to life next to a person.
The Schnauzer will happily brighten up the gray days and will not let you get bored.
His facial expressions are similar to those of humans , and therefore are capable of expressing sincere emotions and feelings. A sense of humor is inherent in all schnauzers, and as long as the dog does not misbehave, it must be educated.
Beagle
Life is in full swing next to this sociable and active dog, with a particularly pronounced hunting instinct. These dogs are suitable for active people or athletes.
The Beagle loves to run and fool around, there is no room for boredom next to him.
He perceives the world around him through his sense of smell, having an excellent sense of smell.
The difficult nature of the beagle needs to be corrected through training, exercises and games.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas tend to form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy spending time with them, especially curled up in their laps. They have relatively low energy levels and adapt equally well to life in a house or apartment.
But, being always on guard, they sound the alarm if they see unfamiliar people or animals on their territory. Be sure to socialize this breed from an early age to help develop friendly behavior, as the dog can be wary of strangers.
Pomeranian Spitz
The Pomeranian is a bright representative of the Spitz family; it belongs to the decorative sofa dogs with a difficult, stubborn character that needs to be trained.
The thick and fluffy coat of the Spitz makes it possible to create many different hairstyles and haircuts. Pomeranians are good companions for children and the elderly, inquisitive and active favorites of all family members.
