Skip to content 
Hello, dog lover! Have you ever wondered, “What are the best breeds of dogs for seniors?” If that’s been playing on your mind, you’re in luck! This blog is dedicated to helping you find that perfect tail-wagging, face-licking friend. The best breed of dogs for an older person can be a subjective topic but don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.
Let’s start with the basics. It’s crucial for seniors to select the right breed. Why, you ask? Well, imagine enjoying your well-deserved retirement, and all of a sudden, you have a hyperactive Husky running circles around your living room. No, thank you, right? Your choice should align with your energy level, space, and health status.
Now, onto the good stuff – the breeds! Hold onto your doggy treats, folks, because we’re diving deep into the world of senior-friendly dogs.
Importance Of Selecting The Right Option for Seniors: 15 Best Breeds of Dogs!
As people age, they often seek the companionship of a furry friend to keep them company. However, not all dog breeds are suitable for older people, as some may require a lot of physical activity and attention.
Deciding whether or not to get a puppy as a senior adult is a personal decision that depends on many factors, including the individual’s lifestyle, health, and support system. While puppies can bring joy and companionship, they also require a lot of time, energy, and patience to train and care for properly.
Additionally, older adults may face challenges with mobility and energy levels that could make puppy ownership more difficult. It’s important to carefully consider these factors and consult with family, friends, or a healthcare provider before making a decision. Alternatively, older adults may consider adopting an older dog or a lower-energy breed that requires less exercise and attention.
Therefore, we have compiled a list of the 15 best dog breeds for older people, known for their calmness, loyalty, and adaptability. Let’s take a look at them!
Low-Maintenance Dogs
For those who prefer a hands-off approach to grooming their dog or lack the time for regular grooming, there are several breeds that are known for their low-maintenance coats. These include:
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
First on our list is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These pups are the epitome of ‘lap dogs,’ making them ideal companions for older folks.
Pros: Cavaliers are gentle, affectionate, and easy to train. They’re also known for their adaptability – whether it’s a small apartment or a sprawling home, they’ll be happy.
Cons: They require moderate exercise, and they can suffer from certain health issues. Regular vet check-ups are a must.
Poodle (Miniature and Toy)
Don’t underestimate the Poodle. Behind that curly coat lies an intelligent and versatile breed. They come in Standard, Miniature, and Toy sizes, but the Miniature and Toy Poodles are recommended for older individuals.
Pros: Poodles are smart, easy to train, and hypoallergenic. Plus, their need for mental stimulation can help keep your mind active!
Cons: They require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Neglecting their need for activity can lead to problematic behaviors.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are affectionate and loyal, making them excellent companions for seniors. They’re like the teenagers of the dog world, minus the angst!
Pros: Shih Tzus are affectionate, relatively low-energy, and good with other pets. They’ve got a fantastic ‘couch potato’ attitude, making them perfect for relaxed, home-based lifestyles.
Cons: They do have a stubborn streak, which might require a little patience during training. Regular grooming is also necessary to keep their beautiful coats in good condition.
Bichon Frisé
Next up is the adorable Bichon Frise. These fluffy, white marshmallows are pretty much the living embodiment of joy. Their small size makes them easy to handle, they’re not overly demanding in terms of exercise, and they’re sociable creatures, which is always a plus.
Pros: Bichon Frises are friendly, adaptable, and great with people. They’re hypoallergenic, too – perfect if you’ve got allergies!
Cons: They do require regular grooming, so keep that in mind. Also, they can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
Small Companion Dogs
If you want a small and low-maintenance dog that is easy to handle and doesn’t require much exercise, there are various breeds that fit the criteria. Some examples include:
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Yes, the same breed as Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite! The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is known for its friendly and outgoing nature.
Pros: Corgis are intelligent, easy to train, and have moderate exercise needs. Plus, they’re always up for a good cuddle session!
Cons: They shed quite a bit, so you might find yourself with a new vacuuming schedule. And while they’re generally healthy, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions.
French Bulldog
If you’re after a low-energy dog with a big personality, the French Bulldog is a fantastic choice. They’re compact, easygoing, and have an irresistible charm.
Pros: French Bulldogs require minimal exercise and grooming. They’re good-natured and adapt well to apartment living.
Cons: They can be prone to certain health issues due to their unique physiology, so vet visits will be regular.
Maltese
The Maltese are a small breed that’s big on love and affection. They’re known for their silky white coats and their devotion to their owners.
Pros: Maltese dogs are gentle, friendly, and adapt well to apartment living. Their low exercise needs make them ideal for a more laid-back lifestyle.
Cons: They require regular grooming to keep their coats looking fabulous. They can also be a bit sensitive, so gentle handling is essential.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are small, but they certainly don’t know it! They’re energetic, intelligent, and always ready to put a smile on your face.
Pros: They’re small, adaptable, and make great companions. Their fluffy coats are also a bonus if you’re looking for a living teddy bear!
Cons: They can be a bit yappy, and their beautiful coat requires regular grooming.
Low-Energy Dogs
There are several low-energy dog breeds suitable for people with a sedentary lifestyle or limited physical abilities, such as:
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small, energetic breed that is perfect for seniors who want an active companion. They’re known for their distinctive bearded snouts.
Pros: Miniature Schnauzers are friendly, intelligent, and have moderate exercise needs. They’re also great watchdogs!
Cons: They require regular grooming for their wiry coat and can be a bit vocal.
West Highland White Terrier
The Westie is a small, spunky breed that’s easy to manage and full of personality. They’re perfect for those who want a spirited yet manageable companion.
Pros: Westies are low-maintenance in terms of exercise and grooming. They’re friendly, independent, and highly adaptable to various living situations.
Cons: They can be a bit stubborn during training, so patience is key. Also, they’re prone to certain skin issues, so monitoring their health closely is essential.
Havanese
The Havanese is a small breed known for its sociable and affectionate nature. They’re the national dog of Cuba, so they know how to handle the heat!
Pros: Havanese dogs are friendly, intelligent, and adapt well to various living situations. They enjoy daily walks and playtime but also appreciate snuggling up with their owners.
Cons: They do require regular grooming due to their long, silky coat and can develop separation anxiety, and are prone to certain health issues.
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie,” is a small breed known for its lively and spirited personality. They are a compact companion that brings energy and cheer into any home.
Pros: Yorkies are intelligent and adaptable, making them easy to train. Their hypoallergenic coat is ideal for individuals with allergies.
Cons: Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their beautiful, silky coat. They can also be a bit stubborn during training, requiring patience and consistency.
Hypoallergenic Dogs
If you’re looking for a breed that is good for seniors with allergies, there are several hypoallergenic breeds to consider. These include:
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, also known as the “Scottie,” is a small breed known for its distinctive silhouette and spirited character. These dogs are intelligent and independent, often presenting an air of aloofness.
Pros: Their hypoallergenic wiry coat requires minimal grooming, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers. They’re also quick learners and love problem-solving tasks.
Cons: They can be stubborn at times, requiring patience during training. Also, their natural instinct to dig may require extra attention, particularly in maintaining your garden.
Pekingese
The Pekingese is an ancient, regal breed from China. They’re often referred to as “lion dogs” due to their distinctive mane and dignified demeanor.
Pros: Pekingese are generally low-energy dogs and are comfortable spending time indoors, making them great for a more sedentary lifestyle. Their grooming needs are moderate despite their long coat.
Cons: They can be a bit stubborn and need a consistent and patient training approach. Also, as brachycephalic dogs, they are sensitive to heat and require a cool environment.
Chinese Crested Dog
Don’t let their unique appearance fool you. The Chinese Crested Dog is a breed with both hairless and “powderpuff” variations and thrives on companionship. They are gentle and affectionate and bond strongly with their humans.
Pros: They’re low-energy dogs, requiring minimal exercise, and their hypoallergenic coat (or skin in the hairless variety) is perfect for allergy sufferers.
Cons: The hairless variety needs protection from cold weather, and their skin requires special care to avoid issues like sunburn or acne. The powderpuff variety needs regular grooming to maintain their double coat.
Selecting the Perfect Canine Companion for Older Adults
Owning a dog can be a wonderful experience at any stage of life, but it’s crucial to find the right match for your needs and lifestyle. Here are some important factors to consider when looking for the perfect dog for an older person:
- Activity level: Different breeds have varying exercise requirements. If you’re an active senior, you may enjoy a dog that needs plenty of play and opportunities to run. On the other hand, if you have limited mobility or energy, a dog that is content with shorter walks might be more suitable. Some tiny breeds can even get adequate exercise just by moving around within your home.
- Size considerations: Small dogs are often more manageable for seniors, especially those living in apartments, condos, or assisted living facilities. They are easy to hold, more portable, less likely to overpower you, and can be conveniently bathed in a sink. However, some small dogs can be quite energetic and tend to bark excessively. Keep in mind that there are exceptions, such as the relatively quiet Maltese and Boston terrier. Alternatively, larger dogs with gentle dispositions and low maintenance needs could also be good options.
- Dog’s age: Adopting a senior dog (usually around seven years old) is often a better choice for older adults, as they tend to be calmer and more predictable than young, energetic puppies. Adult dogs are generally already house-trained and well-socialized. It’s also important to consider the life expectancy of different breeds and the possibility of your pet outliving you. Make sure to have a plan in place for your dog’s care in case you are no longer able to provide it.
- Personality traits: A dog’s temperament is influenced by both genetics and upbringing. While any dog can be raised to be friendly, certain breeds are more naturally inclined towards gentle and sociable behavior. Breeds like beagles, retrievers, poodles, and bulldogs are known for their amiable dispositions. However, remember that each dog has its own unique personality. Spend time interacting with potential pets to gauge how well you both connect.
- Grooming needs: Different breeds have distinct grooming requirements. Some dogs need frequent bathing, haircuts, and grooming, while others may only require occasional brushing. Make sure to choose a dog whose grooming needs you can handle, either independently or with assistance from a family member or professional groomer.
Essential Roles of Assistance Dogs for Elderly Individuals
Isn’t it fascinating how service dogs have adapted to aid seniors in so many unique ways? They’re not just helping with physical impairments like sight or hearing anymore, but they’re also assisting seniors living with complex conditions like dementia. By lowering anxiety and promoting social engagement, these highly trained dogs are doing so much more than we ever thought possible!
And what’s interesting is how these dogs, who are specifically trained to perform tasks like fetching medication or guiding someone with visual impairments, can legally accompany their humans almost anywhere. It’s just amazing how these dogs can change a person’s life, isn’t it?
Now, let’s not forget about therapy dogs and emotional support dogs – they have a different but equally important roles. Therapy dogs are those friendly faces you see providing comfort in hospitals and nursing homes, making a big difference in many people’s day.
On the other hand, emotional support dogs might not have any special training, but they are there to offer comfort and help lessen anxiety for their owners. They might not have the same ADA protections as service dogs, but they do have certain rights, like being able to live in housing complexes where pets may not usually be allowed.
Conclusion
Choosing the best breed of dog for older people requires careful consideration and research. What matters most is the love and companionship that a furry friend can bring into our lives, regardless of our age. The right breed can reduce loneliness and depression and offer health benefits such as lower blood pressure and increased physical activity.
Conversely, the wrong breed can be overwhelming, require too much exercise, or be difficult to train, leading to frustration and disappointment. By considering factors such as energy level, size, grooming requirements, and temperament, seniors can find the perfect companion to enhance their quality of life.
So, whether you’re an older individual ready to welcome a new pet, or someone helping a loved one choose, I hope this guide helps you on your journey!
Now, time to ‘fetch’ your perfect pet!
