We all know that a dog is a man’s best friend, but it’s high time to also give them the title of “Senior’s companion.” Research shows that owning a dog lowers blood pressure, reduces stress levels, and makes you happier –all these are very beneficial, most especially to an elderly’s health and wellness. Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds. If you’re already scratching your head, trying to figure out which one suits the senior in your life or if you’re a senior yourself, we’ve listed below 34 of the best dog breeds that make for excellent elderly companions.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, also known as the “Lion Dog,” is a small canine perfect for elderly people because they’re loyal, friendly, and easy-going. It doesn’t require a lot of exercises, but it will need a lot of snuggling. Don’t underestimate its small size; the Shih Tzu is a great guard dog. They are very loving by nature, which is why they’re also protective of their masters. The Shih Tzu can adapt to any lifestyle, so whether you live in a big or small place, they’ll feel at home.
Shih Tzu
Bolognese Bichon
If you live in a small place that still has enough room for a great furry companion, the Bolognese Bichon is just what you’re looking for. Small, quiet, and calm by nature, you won’t be having any problems with noise and whatsoever. They’re also very smart and easy to train, which is why many owners of the Bolognese Bichon are fond of them. As for grooming and maintenance, they have plush-like fur that does not require too much effort.
Bolognese Bichon
Goldendoodle
As its name bears, the Goldendoodle is a mixed breed of two affectionate breeds, the Golden Retriever and Poodle. If you need some exercise, then this dog is the best for you as it needs to be taken for walks often. Playful, loyal, intelligent, and loving, the Goldendoodle will surely guarantee you great companionship.
Goldendoodle
Beagle
For a senior, regular exercises are essential in maintaining a fit and healthy body. This is why owning a Beagle comes in handy. They’re playful and will surely get you active every day. And here’s more great news; it relatively low grooming needs, so you wouldn’t need to spend much money on that. What’s better than having the perfect dog for grandma or grandpa? A dog that even their grandchildren will love! Even though Beagles are reputably noisy, many senior care experts commend this breed for their friendliness that makes them one of the best breeds for seniors. Moreover, the Beagle gets along well with the youngsters, so even your grandchildren can experience this breed’s, furry love.
Beagle
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian may be small, but its heart is extremely big. This fluffy canine is affectionate, lively, and comfortable living in small spaces such as apartments. When it comes to grooming, you don’t need to worry about spending a dime to maintain its coat to a perfect fluff. The Pomeranian does not exactly require regular grooming, as brushing them on a regular basis is enough. Now, if you want to train your pet, this small breed guarantees big potential. They’re intelligent and will surely learn tricks in no time.
Pomeranian
Pug
They’ve been called the perfect dog for those who spend most of their time lying down on the couch because this smart breed can adapt to their environment, and yes, even your lifestyle. For the older generation who doesn’t have the energy to move and go out like they used to, the Pug surely wouldn’t mind. Aside from their adaptability, Pugs are easy to take care of because their fur doesn’t require much maintenance. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance furry companion, the Pug is the right one for you.
Pug
Mixed breeds
A furry companion doesn’t have to be a purebred dog. Mixed breed dogs make extremely great companions as well. In fact, many experts advise seniors to go for a mixed breed at their local shelters. This is because dogs that go through a shelter are already assessed by handlers for their care needs, personalities, and other qualities. You don’t need to make a wild guess or do an “eeny,meeny, miny, moe” to know which dog will be the best for you as the handlers will be there to guide you. Moreover, it’s great to know that dogs from shelters are usually trained, so you can skip the training process and just go right into cuddling with them.
Mixed Breeds
Yorkshire Terrier
If you want a small and gentle dog that can be with you for a long time, we are giving a spotlight on the Yorkshire Terrier. This breed can live to an average lifespan of 13 to 20 years as long as you take care of it. Since the Yorkshire Terrier is another low-maintenance breed, it is commonly found in apartments and assisted living centers. Yorkies just require daily brushing, so it’s not a hassle to have them around. When it comes to exercise, they don’t need it often too. Although we’re betting that they’ll rest on your knees a lot instead, and that’s a good thing!
Yorkshire Terrier
French Bulldog
Small, cute, and perfect for your apartment, the French Bulldog is a pocket dog you can’t resist. According to canine experts, the French Bulldog is typically loving and lively. Adding to their adorable personalities and big ears, you’re going to love them even more as they are low-maintenance and don’t need exercise on a regular basis. This means you’re going to allot more of your time in just cuddling with them.
French Bulldog
Welsh Corgi Pembroke
If you’re a senior citizen who wants more liveliness in life, the easiest way is to get a Welsh Corgi Pembroke. These breeds are equipped with adorable giant ears and squatting bodies that you’ll definitely win your heart. The Welsh Corgi Pembroke is an intelligent dog that’s been a favorite of British royalty for a long time now. But you don’t need to live in a big palace like the royalties for the Welsh Corgi Pembroke to happily settle in. They are great at living in small places like apartments as well. Expect that you’ll need to be lively like them as well because they require frequent exercise.
Welsh Corgi Pembroke
Otterhound
Otterhounds may not be as popular as the others on the list, but nevertheless, they’re definitely ideal companions for older people. With a life expectancy of around 12 years, Otterhounds will shower you with their love, faithfulness, and intelligence for a long time. They are going to require a regular amount of exercise, but we think it’s not bad since both you and your furry friend can spend more time together while getting fit.
Otterhound
Poodle
If you’re a senior having a hard time looking for a furry companion because of your allergies, we highly recommend the Poodle as it has a hypoallergenic coat that won’t bother you. Poodles are especially popular among older dog lovers because of their loving and gentle nature, as well as their ability to adapt to places where seniors live in. Aside from those, they are the smartest breeds around and also very loyal. Having said all this, the Poodle is a real total package you would want to have as a companion.
Poodle
Lhasa Apso
For small spaces like apartments, living with a small dog like the Lhasa Apso is ideal. Moreover, if you’re not a big fan of the extensive grooming process, this breed is the one to get. The Lhasa Apso has an average life expectancy of 14 years, which means they’ll make you happy for a long time. We think the Lhasa Apso is great for seniors because they’re independent, loyal, and affectionate!
Lhasa Apso
Japanese Spaniel
We promise you won’t need to tire yourself out when you have a Japanese Spaniel. For a little canine, its physical activity is also little, so that’s good news for you. This breed is also low-maintenance, and one brush a week will suffice. Not good with noise? The Japanese Spaniel does not bark as much as other dogs either! When it comes to loyalty, they never disappoint. You can let it loose in the park or the yard to have fun and exploring on its own, but at the end of the day, it’ll come back to you for sure.
Japanese Spaniel
Italian Greyhound
Who said only small dogs could do fine in smaller houses or apartments? The Italian Greyhound proves otherwise. This breed is not small, and not everyone can appreciate its beauty, but it’s a highly manageable and friendly dog that can give you companionship for about 12 to 15 years. If you’re a senior who is really devoted to the fit lifestyle, an Italian Greyhound will support you on that as they would need an hour of exercise.
Italian Greyhound
Bolognese
Like a teddy bear, the Bolognese is cuddly and will do great with seniors. Since this breed has low shedding properties, it doesn’t require a lot of grooming. Intelligent and easy to train, people like caring for them. Moreover, if you live in an apartment and small space where noise can be problematic, the Bolognese is calm and quiet and will not get you into trouble with the neighbors.
Bolognese
Corgi
For the active senior, you need a dog with the same vibe. We suggest you get a Corgi because they have a spunky personality and an energy level of larger dogs but still manageable. The Corgi is a lovable breed and a perfect companion. We all know that even Queen Elizabeth is under its charm.
Corgi
Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is the best pick when it comes to low-maintenance pets. For seniors who want a dog but don’t want to be tiring themselves too much, this breed is the most suitable for them. This breed has served for years as a companion, and they’re commended for being less “yappy” than other breeds. Easy to groom with one brushing a week, a run around the yard for exercise, and usual cuddling with you, the Japanese Chin will find this just about enough for it to be happy.
Japanese Chin
West Highland Terrier
Seniors sure are fond of Terriers and remain a popular breed of choice like the West Highland Terrier. This breed boasts a nice temperament that makes a good lap dog. Small in size, they can comfortably live in an apartment and only needs an hour of exercise a day. When it comes to maintaining their soft fur coat, you’ll be surprised to hear that there’s no extravagant grooming needed. Normal brushing is all it takes.
West Highland Terrier
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been a long time royalty favorite. As you’ve probably noticed, even its name bears a dash of royalty. But, you don’t need to be royalty yourself to be worthy of this adorable lap dog because they can adapt to any living situation. This little canine does not grow over 18 lbs, and taking care of them doesn’t require any big efforts. A bath once a week and a brush are all it takes to maintain its healthy soft fur.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cocker Spaniel
Another Spaniel has made it on our list! We’re introducing the Cocker Spaniel that notably has a great temperament for seniors and a lovable personality. This breed fits well in an apartment. Although they may need some regular brushing, you wouldn’t mind if it’s all for maintaining the Cocker Spaniel’s soft coat that you’ll be loving to pet.
Cocker Spaniel
Scottish Terrier
You’re looking for a dog to keep you active without having to overly exercise? A Scottish Terrier is just for you. It requires regular walks, not excessive running. This breed can comfortably adapt to the apartment living; usually quiet, has a loud bark rather than a yap. It won’t be bothering neighbors, that is for sure. As for its personality, it is affectionate, faithful, and can serve as a great guard dog.
Scottish Terrier
Havanese
The Havanese can be a good companion for seniors because they’re playful, loving, and a small breed that has moderate exercise needs. This breed is devoted to its owners and will love to spend time with you, so expect a lot of furry love from this one. When it comes to their coat, regular brushing will do.
Havanese
Maltese
Maltese is the best when it comes to keeping up with the seniors’ lifestyle. They are low-maintenance dogs, which means you don’t need to tire yourself out to take care of them. They have minor exercise needs and don’t need over-the-top grooming. Small in size, they go perfectly well with small spaces and will always be ready for some big amount of cuddling.
Maltese
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds have an easy, loving nature that seniors will get along with. Although they can be a bit stubborn but nonetheless, they are very affectionate that some say, they like to shadow you closely. If you own a Basset Hound, you have to be watchful of its weight. We know their adorable and hard to resist, but spoiling them with excessive food is not encouraged as they easily put on weight. When it comes to grooming, they don’t need too much work. A regular brush every now and then is good enough.
Basset Hound
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers aren’t described as couch potatoes for nothing. They’ve earned that title for their love in chilling out and just spending time with you. Just the perfect size and equipped with a great personality, they are a breed that a senior can easily manage. You wouldn’t need to fuss over their grooming needs as they don’t require extravagant coat care. This breed’s relaxed nature will definitely calm you down and just be carefree.
Boston Terrier
Dachshund
Dubbed as the “wiener dogs” because of their long and wiener-shaped bodies, the Dachshunds are happy little dogs with a big personality. If you’re looking to add some happiness to your home, this breed will never fail you. You will laugh and enjoy their silly antics. Moreover, Dachshunds require low-maintenance grooming to ensure a healthy coat. They are also fine with living in an apartment as long as they get to enjoy walks and games like fetch as their exercise.
Dachshund
Chihuahua
Tiny but mighty, the Chihuahua has been a faithful companion for centuries now. It is extremely devoted to its owner, and probably as a way of expressing it, they love to stay in your lap. The Chihuahua’s coat does not need much grooming, and as for its exercise, a quick walk is fine.
Chihuahua
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a breed that we could say is a match made in heaven for seniors. This breed prefers the company of older people, as they aren’t so comfortable around children. They have a sweet and relaxed personality, which is why you’ll be expecting them to cuddle a lot on your lap to the point that it will be hard to get them off.
Brussels Griffon
Bulldog
Underneath its gruff appearance, the Bulldog is a very friendly dog. Although they have a shorter lifespan than others on our list, it doesn’t make them less of a great companion. The Bulldog loves showering its owner with their love, and they don’t need much exercise. However, since they aren’t as active as other breeds, you have to keep an eye out for their diet.
Bulldog
Labrador Retriever
Labs are well known to be friendly and intelligent dogs, which is why they make great companions for seniors, provided they can get all the exercise they need. For a large dog, they need to have a large space to be able to move around. So, we don’t think it’s advisable to keep them in a small apartment unless you can provide them with a nice yard that they’ll surely appreciate. The Labrador Retriever is a loyal and loving breed that makes a great watchdog.
Labrador Retriever
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is well-suited for seniors who like to keep themselves busy and active. They are sweet and gentle dogs that need plenty of exercises –as an owner of a Miniature Schnauzer, and you’ll have to keep up with its activeness and will have you do some exercising as well. Moreover, expect some routine grooming to make sure their coats are always healthy and clean.
Miniature Schnauzer
Schipperke
For an active senior looking for a furry partner of the same vibe, a Schipperke is perfect. They are lively and playful, similar to a fox. Moreover, their inquisitive nature and confident streak are some of the many qualities they have that will win your heart. If you get a Schipperke, you’re going to spend a long time with this lovable breed as they can live up to 15 years. This breed grows to about 12-18 lbs and makes a good size for an apartment –as long as they can have enough space to roam around in.
Schipperke
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a breed that doesn’t need any grooming at all. However, their exposed skin needs enough care and attention. We’re suggesting this breed to seniors because, unlike other breeds that will need you to break a sweat in playing games with them or giving them walks, and the Chinese Crested will happily prefer sitting quietly with their owners as quality time.
Chinese Crested
Greyhound
While the Greyhound is by far the biggest dog on our list, they are the laziest. You’ll be surprised to know that even smaller breeds have bigger energy than this breed. For seniors, we highly recommend getting a retired racing Greyhounds since they’ve finished their active racing career and have fully embraced the couch potato lifestyle. Another good thing about adopting a Greyhound from a track is getting a furry friend who’s seen a lot, well-socialized, and will get along with you just fine.
Greyhound
Bichon Frise
A happy and affectionate dog who will make a great companion is the small and fluffy Bichon Frise. A Bichon Frise weighs between 7 and 12 lbs on average, making it extremely easy for most people to handle. They’re relatively easy to train as well. Now and again, they will need to be groomed, but otherwise, they are low-maintenance. As long as they have your companionship, a reasonable amount of daily workouts is usually enough just to keep them happy and healthy.
Bichon Frise
Pekingese
Glorious but slow-moving dogs are Pekingese. They are the ultimate lapdog, and while they need regular brushing, while he/she sleeps on your lap, you can do it. Pekingese are dogs who are very faithful and loving. However, at times, they are also independent and persistent.
Pekingese
Golden retriever
Golden Retrievers, like Labradors, are kind and approachable dogs who respond well to training. Not to consider, they are well-tuned to humans’ emotional needs, making them one of the most popular dog breeds for therapy. They are best suited to active lifestyles because they enjoy running and swimming. They can be nice and calm inside if they get enough exercise outdoors. They thrive on companionship and have a lot of patience they are known to have.
Golden Retriever
Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier – Toto from The Wizard of Oz, as it turns out, was one of the most famous movie dogs ever. We discovered, however, that these dogs aren’t just great actors. They are also great companions. Friendly and cheerful, they are fond of socializing. They are very loyal to their owners, but they tend to have a strong-minded streak as well, so they usually do well with a human companion who is firm with them.
Cairn Terrier
Papillon (Continental Toy Spaniel)
As a small breed, papillons can therefore be easily bathed and transported. They’re smart, which means they can be easily trained. Papillons have a stupid character that allows them to entertain their human companions to no end. The breed is very energetic, so with adults that are still active and willing to take their dogs on walks, they are better off. These dogs may be possessive of their owners, so it’s best to be the only dog in the house to have them.
Papillon (Continental Toy Spaniel)
Welsh Terrier
A true terrier is a medium-sized black and tan breed. The breed is filled with energy since it was bred for hunting and had an independent spirit. They generally weigh around 20 pounds. For seniors, the reason this breed is great is because of its playfulness, energy, and spirit. This dog requires many exercises while they are not as ideal for less capable seniors, which means it can help someone stay in shape. To top it off, since they are so playful and lively, they’re great dogs for playing with grandchildren.
Welsh Terrier
American Eskimo Toy
Go for the American Eskimo Toy if you’re looking for a small dog with a remarkable mane that’s as white as it gets. The smallest type of American Eskimo is the sub-breed. They are so small that, as adults, they only weigh 7-8 lbs. The breed is affectionate and adaptable, making it simple to train and to bond with. As long as you can keep up with the mane-shedding that comes with it.
American Eskimo Toy
Keeshond
If a fluffy texture is one of the major factors you’re searching for when a companion is on the market, then don’t look any further. Say hi to Keeshond. There’s an impressive gray mane in that unique-looking dog. Keeshonds, personality-wise, are very friendly and love to play with their owners.
Keeshond
Icelandic Sheepdog
The Icelandic Sheepdog does not really look like a sheep at all, even after what its name implies. Their coat is fluffy, soft, and straight, which naturally comes with additional shedding. Training is easy, seeing as they’re smart. They weigh around 25 pounds as adults and love being lapdogs. Their owners are very affectionate. The breed is quiet and curious, to top it off, and alert, making them a good companion for those who often want to play with their dogs.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Shiba Inu
The ultimate family pet is considered to be Shiba Inu. With individuals of all ages, this dog breed has no trouble adapting to a large family. They’re very confident, and they’re brave. Shiba Inu is very independent but has nothing more to enjoy than spending time with its owners.
Shiba Inu
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier originated from the United Kingdom and was first bred to assist hunters. In various activities, such as protecting, tracking, and hunting, these multi-talented dogs participate. tAs for their characters, to their owners, they are highly affectionate, loving, and loyal. They’re very approachable, too, so they have no dilemma petting them with other individuals. They love the attention, as a matter of fact! In addition to all that, they are very intelligent, making it so easy to train them.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Shar-Pei
The Shar-Pei is the perfect breed for you if you are older and you feel like a lap dog is overrated. This breed, being medium-sized, is one of the easiest to train and home train as well. They don’t like strangers very much, so they’re excellent watchdogs. They are very autonomous, making them a good choice for owners who go away for long periods of time. The Shar-Pei, however, is a great choice for you if you like to take long walks or get out a lot. Not to mention, due to their short hair, they have minimal grooming needs.
Shar-Pei
Miniature Pinscher
The Minature Pinscher is a cuddly little dog for senior citizens who’ve been searching for a full of energy little companion that would be excellent. This breed is playful, busy, curious, and autonomous. While sometimes it can be headstrong, this dog shows affection for its family, but it can be reserved with strangers. With occasional brushing, it requires minimum care for its coat. It requires a lot of indoor or outdoor activities that can be done. Not to mention, it’s not meant for living outdoors, and it doesn’t like the cold.
Miniature Pinscher
Skye Terrier
This really isn’t the dog for you if you’re a cat person. Skye Terriers tend, in general, to dislike cats. If not, this dog is very reliable, gets along with people, and is a great pet of the family. Furthermore, for avid outdoorsmen, this breed is a great dog.
Skye Terrier
Xoloitzcuintli
This unique breed of dog comes from Mexico. As an adult, the short-haired dog typically weighs about 30 pounds, and it comes in a range of colors. This dog is happy and friendly in terms of personality, alert and is loyal, if not slightly protective. This dog only needs a moderate amount of exercise to top it off.
Xoloitzcuintli
Basenji
It is also identified as the barkless African dog. This charmer is an all-around pleasure as well as quiet. With their short fur that requires very little attention and does not shed, they can not bark but rather yodel. These dogs are incredibly easy to take care of.
Basenji
Whippet
These furry friends are quite comparable to Greyhounds, and among racing breeds, they are also extremely popular. They are all relaxed at the same time, that being said, and enjoy a good nap. They have a short coat that ensures minimal shedding and simple grooming.
Whippet
Barnese Mountain Dog
The lovable creatures that are extremely friendly and easily trained are an absolute delight. They absolutely loathe being left isolated, so they are a great companion, and they have amazing hearts. The only disadvantage is that a lot of brushing and grooming is required for the coat.
Barnese Mountain Dog
Standard Poodle
Hypoallergenic, clever, minimal shedder, and incredibly beautiful. It is considered that these dogs are one of the smartest and extremely easy to train. They pay their owners attention and are also excellent watchdogs.
Standard Poodle
Newfoundland Dog
They are seen as large working dogs in Newfoundland, but they are easy to care for and sweet in nature. They are not ill-tempered or dull and are inherently devoted. They are patient as well. They’ve got a heavy-coat on them.
Newfoundland Dog
Collie
These herding dogs are responsive, productive, and smart… incredibly intelligent. Sensitive, loyal, and easily trained, they are. These dogs can also rest outside and deal with cold temperatures, making it very easy to look after them.
Collie
English Toy Spaniel
Not only are these furry babies incredibly cute, but they are very easy to live with and easy to like. Indoors, they are relaxed, love comfort and coziness, love to snuggle, and are all at the same time enthusiastic. They necessitate little training that reflects the stubborn side they have.
English Toy Spaniel
Great Dane
This German dog breed may be absolutely enormous, but then at the same time, they are terrific watchdogs and become submissive yet affectionate. They are recognized as gentle giants, and, quite honestly, food consumption is the only downside.
Great Dane
Irish Setter
Easy-going, active, and beautiful companions are Irish Setters. With particular reference to grooming their long fur coats, these dogs require a huge amount of attention, and they do shed. In the sense that they can almost always feel separation anxiety, they are loyal and devoted but love their owners incredibly.
Irish Setter
Irish Wolfhound
In war, these dogs have been used to pull men away from horses as well as chariots, but nowadays, they are family partners who are obedient and gentle in nature. These dogs are relaxed as well as patient, sensitive and sweet.
Irish Wolfhound
Mastiff
These dogs are somewhat big, muscular, and strong as well. They are the most ancient of breeds, that being said, and they have a great temperament. They are independent, reserved, smart, and extremely watchful. However, they are healthy and have a shorter life than most other dogs.
Mastiff
Saint Bernard
Although this breed is somewhat large, their eating and exercise demands are fairly moderate in build and overall size. With their gentle temperament, playful yet patient nature, they are easy-going with children and are truly devoted to their families-it is hard not to fall in love.
Saint Bernard
Tibetan Terrier
These furry tiny ones have an unbelievably long life-span of 12-15 years. At any age, they are a real commitment and ideal to embrace! The Tibetan Terrier can easily adapt to any and every environment and make great companion dogs.
Tibetan Terrier
Bullmastiff
As they love to do it their way, they are strong and stubborn. Nevertheless, with a little preparation, they react exceedingly well to the stubbornness trait. In addition, they are fantastic guard dogs and can be gentle and loving.
Bullmastiff
Short-coated Shelter Mutt
These various breeding-mixes are far more resistant than pedigree dogs to sicknesses. They are often also more well-behaved, look very healthy, and are highly lovable and cuddly! They rank in normalcy with respect to eating and exercise.
Short Coated Shelter Mutt