Finding a furry friend who can be by your side as you enjoy your golden years can be a rewarding experience. There’s nothing quite like visiting shelters and rescues and seeing puppy eyes gaze up at you. But finding the best dog breeds also involves research and an assessment of your needs and caring capabilities.
Whether you’re a senior looking for a furry best friend, or you are trying to help an older adult find some companionship, we’ve made this guide to help. You’ll find tips on what to think about when choosing a dog breed. Plus, we’ve made a list of the 21 best dogs for seniors.
What To Consider When Choosing a Dog Breed
Getting a dog is a big decision. Many seniors favor small dog breeds, which can live 13 to 15 years or longer. In addition, you’ll need to be able to care for your pooch. The best dogs for seniors vary depending on the senior’s health and preferences. Some older people are more active and prefer larger dog breeds that can run and romp, while seniors with medical conditions may prefer lap dogs that can cuddle on the couch.
Before selecting a dog breed, assess your personal situation. Think about your home or living situation. If you live in an assisted living community, find out if dogs are allowed and if there are any breed restrictions. Having a yard or outdoor space nearby can also make it easier to choose a dog and ensure it gets the proper amount of exercise. It’s also important to consider finances, as some dog breeds are more prone to costly health issues. Talk to friends and family to help make the perfect choice.
Besides those general considerations, it’s also important to think about what type of dog will suit your lifestyle. Here are some things to consider when looking at the best dogs for seniors.
Energy Level
Different dogs have different energy requirements. If you plan to live on a country farm, an Australian shepherd may be able to get the exercise he or she needs running around your property. On the other hand, if you live in a small apartment or have mobility issues, you might look for a less energetic dog.
Ask yourself what level of activity you can partake in, and look for a dog with similar activity needs. In general, smaller dog breeds will require less exercise than large dog breeds.
Size
Size is another key factor to consider when choosing a floofer for seniors. While large dog breeds can serve as guard dogs and watchdogs, they’re also more likely to knock you over if they get excited. They also have larger appetites, meaning you’ll need to spend more on food compared to a smaller dog. Big dogs also have a higher risk of certain medical conditions including hip dysplasia, so owning a bigger dog may also incur higher vet bills. If you want a large dog, look for a breed with a docile disposition such as a Saint Bernard or Newfoundland.
Small dog breeds tend to be easier to handle, especially when it comes to walking and regular care including bathing. They also typically require less exercise than most large dog breeds. One thing to note is small dogs can bark and yap often. However, proper training and socialization can minimize this behavior.
Grooming
Some dogs require more skin and coat maintenance than others. Some dogs need regular brushing and haircuts, while others can simply be bathed every few weeks. Before choosing a dog, think about how much upkeep you’ll need to perform. Be realistic about the amount of time and energy you can put into grooming your dog.
Disposition
Like humans, dogs can have different personalities. Some dogs, including beagles, bulldogs, and retrievers, are known for their sunny, easy-going dispositions. Others can be stubborn, strong-willed, or independent, making it hard for seniors to be the ones in charge.
Breeding and upbringing also play a role in a dog’s temperament. Try to meet the dog you’re thinking about adopting before you make a final decision. See how the dog responds in different situations, and ask the breeder or rescue worker about the dog’s behavior and tendencies.
Age
A dog’s age is another factor to consider when choosing the best dogs for seniors. Some dogs live longer than others, so you may have to think about who will care for your dog if he or she outlives you.
Additionally, young dogs and puppies tend to be more energetic than others. If you’re entering your golden years with some pep in your step, you may be able to train and socialize a puppy that wants to chew and play all the time. For seniors that are more focused on a dog for companionship, an older dog or senior dog may be a better option. Older dogs tend to be calmer. Plus, they’re usually house-trained and socialized.
The 21 Best Dogs for Seniors
The best dogs for seniors largely depends on the individual senior’s needs and abilities. Some seniors will prefer larger, more active dogs, while others will want a mellow lap dog. Whatever you or your family members prefer, keep the above criteria in mind when choosing a dog breed.
Here are 21 of the best dogs for seniors:
1. Poodle
The poodle is a remarkably intelligent dog that is easy to train and eager to please. This dog breed doesn’t require a ton of exercise — one solid walk per day is enough. They’re content to lounge and cuddle with family members. Unlike other dog breeds, they form strong bonds with multiple family members. Poodles are ideal for senior couples, as they’re gentle and nurturing.
They do require grooming every four to six weeks, but they don’t shed, making them a great choice for seniors. They also come in different sizes, including the tiny toy poodle, miniature poodle, and standard poodle.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These wonderful pups make great companion dogs. They love to cuddle with their favorite people, and they’re easy to train due to their high intelligence. They’re great with adults and children, and their playful nature makes them fun to watch and be around.
The Cavalier King Charles spaniel has a long coat that is prone to matting, particularly behind their long ears. Regular brushing and grooming is a requirement for these dogs, and their instincts make them prone to chasing critters. They’re ideal for seniors who have a fenced yard, or you can use a long leash on walks to help them exercise.
3. Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel consistently ranks among the best dogs for seniors. They weigh 20-30 pounds and have a life expectancy of 10-14 years. These dogs don’t have pent-up energy they need to expel, but they need regular walks and other exercises to maintain healthy muscles.
Cocker Spaniels are people-pleasers, so they’re easy to train, and their long coats require regular brushing to avoid tangles. While these dogs can live in apartments, they do best in environments where they can play.
4. French Bulldog
Commonly called Frenchies, this bulldog breed is one of the best dogs for seniors who live in apartments or want a dog with less energy. They are spirited and goofy by nature and love to be with their humans. They’ll climb into your lap and cuddle while you watch the nightly news, or they’ll have you giggling as they run around in the backyard. They’re not the best choice for people who live in hot environments, as they can overheat easily.
5. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Famously owned by Queen Elizabeth II, corgis are among the most lovable and energetic dogs on this list. These dogs enjoy daily jaunts, including hikes and trips to the dog park. They were originally bred as herding dogs, so they require more activity than other options here. They’re protective and high-energy, meaning they make great guard dogs. While they like the occasional cuddle, they’re on the larger side and weigh around 30 pounds.
6. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are fluffy furballs with an independent streak. They can be mildly stubborn, so a firm approach to training is necessary. Their lovable nature and small stature make them perfect lap dogs, and they tend to bark to announce the arrival of guests or the postman. Their barking makes them better suited for seniors who live at home rather than those in apartments of living communities. Their fur also requires moderate upkeep, including regular brushing a few times per week.
7. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are well-rounded dogs that can thrive in both apartment and home environments. They require short daily walks or exercise in the backyard, but overall, they tend to be low-maintenance pooches. They’re playful and welcoming to both family and strangers, and their gentle temperament makes them a good choice for seniors with grandchildren and other pets.
8. Havanese
The Havanese is an outgoing breed that can weigh 7-13 pounds and has a life expectancy of around 14 years. They’re cheerful dogs with vivacious personalities, and they’re extremely social. They love to be with humans and can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods of time. They’re ideal for seniors looking for a joyful and gentle companion.
9. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful and loving small breed featuring a curly white coat that doesn’t shed. They need regular visits to the groomer but only short walks for exercise. They get along well with other pets, including dogs and cats, and they play well with small children. They’re gentle, cuddly, and don’t bark often, making them a great choice for elderly people in apartments and living communities.
10. Boston Terrier
Boston terriers are among the easiest dog breeds for seniors. They don’t bark much, making them a good choice for elderly adults who live in assisted living communities. They love to lounge and sit on your lap, and they require minimal exercise. In addition, they have a short coat that doesn’t require much maintenance outside of the occasional bath. They’re low-maintenance, lovable, and goofy creatures that are perfect for seniors who want companionship with less hassle.
11. West Highland White Terrier
Affectionately known as Westies in the dog world, these lovable dogs have been owned by celebrities including Cary Grant, Alfred Hitchcock, and Duchess Kate Middleton. They are devoted to their owners. They weigh 15-20 pounds and typically live around 15 years.
These dogs are energetic and require daily exercise. Their hunting background makes them susceptible to chasing animals, and they do best on a leash or in a fenced area. They are confident, smart, and independent, so they may be slightly more difficult to train.
12. Maltese
The Maltese is the epitome of elegant, bright, and loving small dogs. Their beautiful white coats don’t shed, so they’ll need daily brushing and regular grooming. Their dainty stature — they typically weigh between four and seven pounds — means they don’t need a lot of exercises. Plus, their intelligence makes them easy to train. Best of all, they love to cuddle and have playful dispositions.
13. Chihuahua
The chihuahua is a tiny dog breed that can easily be exercised indoors. They don’t require much grooming thanks to their short, thin coats. They do best in warm environments, as they don’t tolerate cold temperatures well. Chihuahuas can easily be picked up, and their spunky personalities make them a joy to be around.
14. Pug
Described by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as “charming, mischievous, and loving,” pugs are excellent dogs for seniors. They are among the most loving dogs, and they are all about affection. They’re great house dogs that don’t require a lot of exercise. The pug features a distinct snout that makes them prone to snoring, though they don’t bark very often. They do well with other dogs and young children, and they love food, so it’s a good idea to monitor their diets and keep treats to a minimum.
15. Yorkshire Terrier
Also called Yorkies, this tiny terrier weighs around seven pounds and has a life expectancy of 11-15 years. While small in stature, they have huge personalities. Yorkies are tenacious and feisty — they often boss around bigger dogs and exhibit tons of attitude. They’re also incredibly loving and affectionate.
They’re particularly well-suited to city and apartment life, and they don’t require much exercise. Their beautiful coats need regular brushing, but they don’t shed and tend to cause fewer allergies than other dog breeds.
16. Beagle
Beagles are active dogs that love to be in the great outdoors. They require a significant amount of exercise and are prone to chasing squirrels and other small critters. They’re best for seniors who want an energetic pooch, and they do best in homes with fenced yards or when on a long leash. They’re governed by their noses — they were bred as hunting dogs after all — so expect to stop often when out for walks.
Energetic and sociable, these dogs love being around people. They do well with small children thanks to their easy-going nature. They like to cuddle, but they tend to bond best when they’re allowed to play.
17. Miniature Schnauzer
The miniature Schnauzer weighs 11-20 pounds and lives anywhere from 12-15 years. They’re a low-shedding breed, and their small size means you can easily take them with you around town and on trips. These dogs are charming, featuring a distinctive beard and bushy eyebrows that create an endearing appearance. They’re lively dogs that need regular exercise including running and chasing toys such as balls or frisbees. They’re eager to please and love to snuggle with their humans. They’re best suited for active seniors who want an energetic dog with lower maintenance grooming.
18. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa apso is a stunningly beautiful dog with a floor-length coat that requires regular brushing. The dog’s coat can be cut short to minimize grooming, and you’ll need to bathe dogs with long coats every two weeks and factor in regular grooming sessions.
These dogs are smart, gentle, and great at entertaining themselves. They're often used as therapy dogs and they can get exercise or playtime by running around your home or on short, brisk walks. They’re highly intelligent but stubborn and require firm, gentle training.
19. Scottish terrier
The Scottish terrier is a spirited pup that weighs around 20 pounds and has a life expectancy of about 12 years. They do well in small homes and apartments but require regular exercise or spurts of activity. They are independent and intelligent, so they can become mischievous if they’re hard to train. They are not ideal dogs for homes with other pets, including cats, as they can be aloof or prone to chasing. Weekly brushing and regular groomer visits are required for this breed.
The Best Large Dogs for Seniors
Some seniors may want a larger dog for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you want a dog that’s more active or can offer protection. Whatever the reason, there are several large dog breeds that are a good choice for seniors. Here are two of the best dogs for seniors that are larger than the others on this list.
1. Retrievers
Retrievers are among the most popular dogs in America. They’re known for their loyalty, gentle demeanor and affectionate behavior. The most popular breeds include the Labrador retriever and the golden retriever. They’re friendly and intelligent but require a significant amount of exercise compared to small dog breeds. If you choose one of these breeds, plan on hiking, going for long walks, or taking bike rides to exercise this pooch.
2. Greyhound
Known as the fastest dogs around, it may not seem like these dogs are the best choice for seniors. However, Greyhounds are graceful dogs with a sweet temperament that make them as cuddly as smaller dogs. While they require large amounts of exercise, they’re also content to be couch potatoes.
In terms of exercise, these dogs do best when they can run at maximum speed. Instead of taking long daily walks, take these dogs to the dog park or another fenced area where they can chase a ball or frisbee. You can use a ball thrower to make throwing easier and exert less energy. Their grooming needs are extremely low thanks to a short coat.
Finding Companionship
The best dogs for seniors include a wide variety of breeds both large and small. These affectionate dogs can provide companionship, entertainment, and enjoyment for years to come. Choosing the right one is all about assessing your needs and the needs of your desired breed. Make sure you can provide the level of exercise and grooming care required for the dog you’re considering. It’s also important to consider the age, disposition, and size of the dog you’re adopting.
As we get older, it’s important to find ways to connect. Getting a dog is an excellent way to find companionship and stay active. Another great way to stay connected is to use Snug. Our daily check-in app sends motivational messages and a daily notification to make sure everything is ok. If you don’t respond, the app will notify your emergency contacts so they can check in on you.
Snug also makes it easy to find valuable information and resources for seniors. On our blog, you’ll find tips on everything from exercises such as chair yoga and tai chi to how to take your blood pressure at home and how to stay connected with the best cell phones.