Dogs are miracles with paws, they are one of life’s greatest gifts. Although there are many options for breeds, size, and color, you will certainly find one that you’ll love. Dogs are amazing companions in every stage of their lives. One group of people that will definitely enjoy them are seniors. Did you know? Research shows that owning a dog will greatly reduce your stress, thus lower your blood pressure and lead to more happiness. Read on to see dog breeds that are proven to be a great match for seniors looking for a furry companion.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are better known as Lion Dog. The reason why it’s the best option for seniors is that they are loyal, friendly, and very easy-going. They don’t require a lot of exercises but they love cuddling. They are small but they can be amazing guard dogs. If you’re living in an apartment or a duplex, Shih Tzus can adapt to it.
Shih Tzu
Bolognese Bichon
Bolognese Bichon is another amazing breed perfect for seniors. Grooming and maintaining them at home won’t be too much of a problem because they have plush-like fur. They are easy to train, intelligent, and have great personalities. Owning a Bolognese Bichon is practical if you live in an apartment or a small space, they are naturally quiet and calm. Your neighbors or roommate won’t have a problem with the noise!
Bolognese Bichon
Goldendoodle
Goldendoodle is a crossbreed of two affectionate dog breeds. They are a mix of Golden Retriever and a Poodle. If you love to exercise, this is the dog for you. They need to be taken outside regularly. They are playful, smart, loyal, and cuddly.
Goldendoodle
Beagle
Many people said that beagles are noisy dogs, but expert breeders say that they are great at caring for the elderly. Beagles are playful so they will keep their owners active. Actually, they are perfect for humans who have an active lifestyle and loves the outdoors. They aren’t too messy and wouldn’t require a lot of grooming. If you have grandkids, they will get along well with them!
Beagle
Pomeranian
If you’re going for an energetic and affectionate dog, a Pomeranian is the best option for you! They might be small but they have big hearts. They will perfectly in small living spaces. They are fluffy but they don’t need frequent grooming. Just brush them regularly. You can even train them and will easily follow and adapt.
Pomeranian
Pug
If you spend most of your time on the couch, this breed might be the best for you. This is the reason why pugs are the most perfect breed for seniors who might not be able to adapt to an active lifestyle as much as they want. However, they are smart enough to adjust to any living situation. It’s a great thing that their fur is very easy to maintain.
Pug
Mixed breeds
When looking for the best dog breed, keep in mind that you don’t always have to buy a pure breed. Many experts say seniors should go for mixed breeds at the shelter instead. When dogs are brought to the shelter, they undergo an assessment so that rescuers will know what type of care they need and what they can expect of their personalities. This is also done so that they can match the owners and dogs perfectly when they rehome them. You won’t need to give basic training on the puppies by yourself!
Mixed Breeds
Yorkshire Terrier
If you love small and calm dogs, get a Yorkshire Terrier! Their average lifespan ranges from 13 to 20 years, so they will be your friend for a long time. Of course, given that you take proper care of them. Yorkshire Terriers are usually adopted by people living in apartments or even assisted living centers because they are easy to manage. You just have to brush them every day. They also don’t need a lot of exercises and you will often find them cuddling beside you quite often.
Yorkshire Terrier
French Bulldog
You might have heard bad things about bulldogs, but along with their cute personalities and charming big ears, French bulldogs are considered loveable dogs! They are very affectionate and full of energy. If you’re into small dogs, this will be an excellent choice. One of the reasons they fit in small living spaces is that they don’t need much maintenance and exercise.
French Bulldog
Welsh Corgi Pembroke
Are you looking for an energetic dog to enhance your life? Well, seniors, Welsh Corgi Pembroke is the one for you! These short adorable dogs are known for their huge ears and squishy bodies. They are very clever dogs and have been a royal favorite for a while now. They will adapt to living in an apartment, however, they will need regular walks or exercises.
Welsh Corgi Pembroke
Otterhound
These dogs don’t get much attention in the spotlight but that doesn’t mean they can’t be the best companion for seniors. For one, they have a lifespan of 12 years. However, they require a farm amount of exercise but on the bright side, you will benefit from having such a smart, independent, loyal, and affectionate furry friend!
Otterhound
Poodle
Poodles are the most popular breed among seniors and for a good reason. They are the smartest breed out there. They are gentle and affectionate, and they are very loyal. Some might even say they are clingy but in a cute way. They can adapt to any living space, big or small. One thing to consider is your allergies, if you have them, better get a hypoallergenic poodle.
Poodle
Lhasa Apso
Another amazing dog for small homes is the Lhasa Apso. If you have the budget for extensive grooming, this will be a great dog for you. They have an average life span of 14 years. Just like other dogs, they are loyal, loving, and independent. Plus, who wouldn’t want to get cute cuts and costumes for their dogs?
Lhasa Apso
Japanese Spaniel
One good thing about the Japanese Spaniel is that they don’t require many walks or exercises. You don’t need to worry about getting a lot of physical activity if you get this dog. They are also low maintenance, one brush weekly would suffice. They aren’t loud and they don’t bark a lot. When you have a park or a yard, you will see how independent they can be. They will come back to your lap on their own no matter how fun it is to run around.
Japanese Spaniel
Italian Greyhound
Compared to other breeds on this list, they might not look as glamorous but the Italian Greyhound is famous for its independence. They are dogs that can be easily managed. They are usually called, “Iggies” and they have a life span of 12 to 15 years. They are small-home friendly and concerning physical activities, an hour a day would be enough.
Italian Greyhound
Bolognese
What a great dog for seniors! With the personality of a teddy bear, the Bolognese is one of the senior favorites! The best thing about it is that they don’t demand extensive grooming! They don’t shed too much hair and when trained properly, they can be quite intelligent. Training them would not be too difficult, they are already quiet and calm in nature. This is why it’s an excellent dog for small homes, where noise would be problematic.
Bolognese
Corgi
The Corgi is an excellent companion for the more active elderly. This herding dog breed has the same activity level as bigger dogs, just in smaller and more controllable packaging, thanks to their extremely active personality and compact stature. Corgis can keep you amused for hours! Another well-known truth is that Queen Elizabeth’s favorite dog breed is the Corgi, of which she has many.
Corgi
Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is an excellent option for elders since it does not need much activity and is simple to maintain. Its dog has been a companion dog for many years and is less ‘yappy’ than other dog breeds of this size. For this breed, a run around the backyard is expected. It will be just as delighted to return and snuggle with you.
Japanese Chin
West Highland Terrier
An excellent lap dog with a superb temperament, the West Highland Terrier seems to be another popular option among the elderly. Are you living in a small living space? No problem! These canines are well-suited to that lifestyle and need just one hour of exercise each day. Because they have a soft fur coat, you won’t have to perform any grooming.
West Highland Terrier
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
For many years, the ever-popular Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been a favorite of royalty, and they’re still one of the cutest little lap dogs today. They seldom weigh more than 18 pounds and can easily adapt to most living circumstances. All you need to do is wash them once a week and brush them gently to maintain their silky hair healthy.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniel Another gorgeous Spaniel on the list is the Cocker Spaniel. It has one of the finest personalities and is thus ideal for elders. You may need to groom them more often than other dogs, but their loving personality and ability to live in an apartment will make it all worthwhile.
Cocker Spaniel
Scottish Terrier
If you want a dog that requires an average level of activity to keep you busy, the Scottish Terrier is the dog for you! They must be taken on frequent walks, but not on long runs. Scottish Terriers adapt well to apartment life, which is usually quiet. Instead of yapping, these dogs yell loudly. It has a lovely disposition and will be a devoted security dog.
Scottish Terrier
Havanese
Havanese, like the Maltese, is an excellent choice for elders. They are tiny, lively, and loving dogs that need a lot of activity. They like spending time with their owners and develop strong attachments to them. The fur of a Havanese is easy to care for and just has to be brushed regularly. Their demeanor is kind and gentle by nature, yet these dogs may be high-strung at times.
Havanese
Maltese
The much-loved Maltese! This is an excellent choice for seniors since their need for exercise is very modest. They don’t need much maintenance and have a lot of affection to give. The Maltese are very adaptable to tiny houses or flats. They love snuggling together. Because of their calm demeanor, they are often employed as therapy dogs.
Maltese
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are not only calm canines, but they are also extremely affectionate, making them an excellent choice for elders. While they may be obstinate at times, they are also extremely loving. Some individuals claim to like carefully following you. Basset Hounds are prone to gaining weight, so be sure you give this breed enough activity. Fortunately, they just need little grooming.
Basset Hound
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are often described as couch potatoes. Boston Terriers just enjoy relaxing and spending as much time as they can with their owners. They have a great attitude and are a decent size, making them ideal for elders to handle. Boston Terriers are the ideal loving companion for everyone, but particularly for seniors because of their low maintenance needs and laid-back demeanor.
Boston Terrier
Dachshund
Often known as ‘weiner dogs,’ Dachshunds are joyful small canines with huge personalities. They are said to be very devoted to their owners. Besides, you’ll have a great time laughing at their antics. Dachshunds don’t need much care to keep their fur healthy. They are ideal for tiny apartments, and they like going for walks and playing games; playing ‘fetch’ is a terrific workout for them.
Dachshund
Chihuahua
The best way to characterize this breed is ‘small yet powerful!’ Chihuahuas like sitting on your lap and are extremely dedicated to their owners. Chihuahuas have been faithful friends for a very long time. Even the long-coated Chihuahuas do not need much care and have low activity requirements. A short stroll is beneficial to them.
Chihuahua
Brussels Griffon
Another lap dog on the list- the Brussels Griffons, which are so lovable that you may have difficulty keeping them away from you! This breed has certain features with bulldogs. They enjoy the company of older people since they are less at ease among children. Their gentle and easygoing nature makes them an ideal companion for elders.
Brussels Griffon
Bulldog
Aside from the fact that this breed has a shorter life expectancy than the others on the list, a Bulldog makes an excellent companion for people of all ages. Despite their gruff and surly look, these dogs are extremely sociable and love spending time with their owner. Furthermore, they do not need much activity. Because Bulldogs don’t do much running, it’s essential to keep a watch on their nutrition.
Bulldog
Labrador Retriever
Labradors are renowned for their loving and intellectual temperament, and they have wonderful characteristics that make them excellent companions for seniors, as long as they receive enough exercise. However, these big canines cannot be kept in an apartment. Labs will be delighted if you have a beautiful yard. This breed is loyal, loving, and makes an excellent watchdog.
Labrador Retriever
Miniature Schnauzer
This dog breed, which is most often seen in cities, is known as the Miniature Schnauzer and is ideal for seniors. Although they need a lot of activity, they are extremely adorable and friendly dogs. To keep their coats healthy and tidy, they must be groomed regularly.
Miniature Schnauzer
Schipperke
Are you an active senior searching for a wonderful companion? The Schipperke would be an excellent pet for you! They have a lifetime of around 15 years and are happy and lively. Their curious curiosity and confident streak are two of their many endearing characteristics. However, you must devote some effort to training them as well. They are suitable for apartment living after they reach a weight of 12-18 pounds and have adequate room to wander.
Schipperke
Chinese Crested
Unlike the majority of the other dogs on this list, the Chinese Crested requires little upkeep. However, you must take care of their exposed skin. They have a lot of activity yet are content to sit quietly with their owners.
Chinese Crested
Greyhound
As the largest dog on the list, the Greyhound is also the most sluggish. Retired racing Greyhounds are ideal for elders since they are essentially couch potatoes. If you adopt one from the track, they will be highly socialized as well.
Greyhound
Bichon Frise
The tiny and fluffy Bichon Frise is a cheerful and loving dog that will make an excellent companion. A Bichon Frise weighs between 7 and 12 pounds on average, making it very simple to handle for most people. They’re also very simple to train. They will need to be groomed now and again, but they are generally low-maintenance. A modest quantity of daily activity is usually enough to keep them healthy and happy as long as they have your company.
Bichon Frise
Pekingese
Pekingese are beautiful but slow-moving canines. They are the ideal lapdog, and although they do need daily grooming, you can do it while he or she is lying on your lap. Pekingese are loyal and affectionate dogs. They are, however, self-sufficient and persistent at times.
Pekingese
Golden retriever
Golden Retrievers, like Labradors, are kind and sociable dogs who respond well to training. Not to add that they are sensitive to people’s emotional needs, making them one of the most popular therapy dog breeds. Because they like running and swimming, they are best suited to active lives. They may be pleasant and quiet on the inside if they receive enough exercise outside. They thrive on company and are considered to be very patient.
Golden Retriever
Cairn Terrier
As it turns out, one of the most famous movie dogs ever was a Cairn Terrier – Toto from The Wizard of Oz. However, we found that these dogs aren’t only excellent performers; they’re also wonderful friends. They like socializing and are friendly and happy. They are extremely devoted to their owners, but they also have a strong-willed tendency, so they usually do best with a human partner that is tough with them.
Cairn Terrier
Papillon (Continental Toy Spaniel)
Because they are a tiny breed, Papillons are simple to wash and carry. They’re clever, which means they’re simple to teach. Papillons have a funny attitude and will keep their human partners entertained for hours. Because the breed is extremely lively, they perform best with people who are still active and eager to take their pets for walks. These dogs may be protective of their owners, therefore they should be the only dog in the home.
Papillon (Continental Toy Spaniel)
Welsh Terrier
The medium-sized black and tan breed is a genuine terrier. Because it was developed for hunting, the breed is full of activity and has an independent personality. In general, they will weigh about 20 pounds. This breed is ideal for elders because of its fun, vitality, and personality. While they aren’t suitable for less able seniors, this dog needs a lot of activity, which means it may help someone remain in shape. To top it all off, since they’re so energetic and active, they’re ideal for playing with grandkids.
Welsh Terrier
American Eskimo Toy
If you’re searching for a tiny dog with amazing fur that’s as white as it gets, opts for the American Eskimo Toy. The sub-breed is the smallest kind of American Eskimo. They’re so tiny that adults barely weigh 7-8 lbs. The breed is loving and flexible, making it simple to teach and connect with. So long as you can keep up with the shedding that comes with having a mane.
American Eskimo Toy
Keeshond
If fluffiness is one of the primary qualities you’re searching for in a friend, look no further. Say hi to the Keeshond. The unusual-looking dog has a stunning gray mane. Keeshonds are extremely friendly and like playing with their owners.
Keeshond
Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog, despite its name, does not resemble a sheep at all. Their coat is fluffy, silky, and straight, which naturally results in excessive shedding. Because they are intelligent, training is simple. They weigh about 25 pounds as adults and like being lapdogs. They are extremely loving with their owners. To top it all off, the breed is quiet, inquis,itive, and attentive, making them an ideal companion for people who like playing with their dogs regularly.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu is considered the ideal family pet. This dog breed does well in a big household with individuals of various ages. Shiba Inu are extremely confident and brave. They are quite independent yet love nothing more than spending time with their owners.
Shiba Inu
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier originated in the United Kingdom and was originally developed to assist hunters. These multi-talented canines participate in a variety of tasks like guarding, tracking, and hunting. In terms of personality, they are very affectionate, loving, and devoted to their owners. They’re also extremely social, so they don’t mind other people touching them. They really like being the center of attention! Aside from that, they are very clever, making it extremely simple to teach them.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Shar-Pei
If you’re older and think lapdogs are overrated, the Shar-Pei is the breed for you. Because of its modest size, this breed is one of the simplest to train and housetrain. They dislike strangers and are excellent watchdogs. They are very self-sufficient, making them an excellent option for owners who are gone for extended periods of time. However, if you like long walks or going out and about, the Shar-Pei is an excellent option for you. Not to add that their short hair requires little maintenance.
Shar-Pei
Miniature Pinscher
The Minature Pinscher is a loving little dog that would be ideal for seniors seeking an active little companion. This breed is energetic, active, inquisitive, and self-sufficient. While this dog may be stubborn at times, it is affectionate toward its family yet reticent among outsiders. Its coat requires just a little brushing regularly. It requires a lot of exercises, which may be done both inside and outdoors. Not to mention that it is not designed for outdoor life and dislikes the cold.
Miniature Pinscher
Skye Terrier
If you have a cat, this is not the dog for you. Skye Terriers hate cats in general. Otherwise, this dog is extremely reliable, gets along well with others, and is an excellent family companion. Furthermore, this breed is ideal for keen outdoor enthusiasts.
Skye Terrier
Xoloitzcuintli
Xoloitzcuintli is a Mexican dog breed. As an adult, the short-haired dog weighs about 30 pounds and comes in a range of colors. In terms of personality, this dog is cheerful and sociable, attentive, and devoted, if not somewhat defensive. To top it all off, this dog just requires a modest bit of exercise.
Xoloitzcuintli