The 21 Best Dogs for Seniors: How To Find the Perfect Fur Friends
We’ve compiled a list of the 21 best dogs for seniors, as well as advice on what to look for and how to pick the right dog for you.
What To Consider When Choosing a Dog Breed
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.
Energy Level
Different dog breeds have different energy requirements, so consider your own level of activity and look for a dog with similar needs. Smaller dog breeds require less exercise than larger dog breeds, which is especially important if you live in a small apartment or have mobility issues.
Size
Small dog breeds are easier to handle, especially when it comes to walking and regular care, such as bathing. Big dogs are more likely to knock you over if they get excited, and they also have a higher risk of certain medical conditions, such as hip dysplasia.
Grooming
Some dogs require more skin and coat maintenance than others; some dogs require regular brushing and haircuts, while others can be bathed every few weeks. Be realistic about the time and energy you’ll need to invest in grooming your dog before purchasing one.
Disposition
Some dogs are known for their sunny, easygoing personalities, while others can be stubborn, strong-willed, or independent. A dog’s temperament is influenced by breeding and upbringing, so meet the dog you’re thinking about adopting before making a final decision.
Age
When looking for the best dogs for seniors, consider their age. Young dogs and puppies are usually more energetic than others, whereas older dogs are usually house-trained and socialized, as well as calmer and more focused on a dog for companionship.
The 21 Best Dogs for Seniors
The best dogs for seniors are determined by the needs and abilities of the individual senior; some seniors prefer larger, more active dogs, while others prefer a mellow lap dog. Here are 21 of the best dogs in the United States to help you choose the right dog for you.
1. Poodle
The poodle is a highly intelligent dog that is easy to train and eager to please. Unlike other dog breeds, poodles form strong bonds with multiple family members, making them ideal for senior couples. They do require grooming every four to six weeks but do not shed.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles spaniel has a long coat that is prone to matting, so they require regular brushing and grooming. They’re great for seniors who have a fenced yard, or you can take them for walks on a long leash to get them some exercise.
3. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are people-pleasers, easy to train, and do best in environments where they can play. They weigh 20-30 pounds and have a life expectancy of 10-14 years. They are people-pleasers, easy to train, and do best in environments where they can play.
4. French Bulldog
Frenchies are 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 enjoy being with their humans; however, they are not the best choice if you live in hot climates because they can easily overheat.
5. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Corgis are among the most lovable and energetic dogs on this list; they were bred as herding dogs, so they require more activity than other dogs. While they enjoy cuddling, they’re on the larger side, weighing around 30 pounds.
6. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are fluffy furballs with an independent streak, which necessitates a firm approach to training. They bark to announce the arrival of guests or the mailman, and their fur requires moderate upkeep, including regular brushing.
7. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are well-rounded dogs that thrive in both apartment and home settings; they’re playful and welcoming to both family and strangers, and their gentle temperament makes them an excellent choice for seniors with grandchildren and other pets.
8. Havanese
The Havanese is a cheerful dog with vivacious personalities, and they’re very social and love to be with humans, making it ideal for seniors looking for a joyful and gentle companion. They can weigh 7-13 pounds and have a life expectancy of around 14 years. They’re cheerful dogs with vivacious personalities, and they’re very social and love to be with humans, making it ideal for seniors looking for a joyful and gentle companion.
9. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful and loving small breed with a curly white coat that doesn’t shed; they’re gentle, cuddly, and don’t bark frequently, making them an excellent choice for elderly people living in apartments and community care homes.
What is the best medium size dog for seniors?
The following are 21 of the best dogs for senior citizens:
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
- Cocker Spaniel.
- French Bulldog.
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
- Pomeranian.
- Shih Tzu.
- Havanese.
What is the best dog for a retired person?
Three of the Best Dog Breeds for Seniors and Retired People
- Dogs make excellent companions at any age.
- Labrador Retrievers.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
- Goldendoodles.
- Shelter Dogs.
Is 65 pounds a medium or large dog?
A medium breed dog weighs between 24 and 55 pounds, while a large breed weighs over 55 pounds, according to Royal Canine. Medium breed dogs weigh between 35 and 65 pounds, and large breeds weigh over 55 pounds, according to Pet Place.
Should a 65 year old get a puppy?
Seniors aged 65 and up should get at least 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic exercise (such as brisk walking) per week, or about 30 minutes on most days of the week, according to the American Heart Association. Furthermore, 64% of pet owners in general, and 78% of dog owners in particular, said their pet encouraged them to be more physically active.
What’s the most low maintenance dog?
Dog Breeds That Are Low-Maintenance
- Brussels Griffon.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
- Chihuahua.
- Chinese Crested.
- Dachshund.
- French Bulldog.
What breed of dog is quiet and calm?
The Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bernese Mountain Dog, French Bulldog, Borzoi, Basenji, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, and Scottish Deerhound are among the quietest dog breeds.
What breed of dog does not need much walking?
She requires a lot of space and training, but she is a calm spirit. French Bulldog u2013 Quiet and calm, this small bulldog can thrive in an apartment with just a short daily walk and some indoor play. Greyhound u2013 They may be the fastest sprinters, but they are surprisingly fond of couches.
What is a good pet for an older person?
Dogs, cats, and even birds provide companionship and can add love and activity to senior apartments, according to the University of Michigan/AARP 2019 National Poll on Healthy Aging, which polled 2,051 adults aged 50 to 80.
What dog breed needs the least attention?
The following are the top ten low-maintenance dog breeds.
- Dachshund.
- Shiba Inu.
- Basset Hound.
- French Bulldog.
- Bullmastiff.
- Chihuahua.
- Pug.
- Pug
What weight is considered an extra large dog?
There is no single authority that defines these terms consistently, but we consider big dog breeds to weigh between 45 and 90 pounds, while extra-large, huge, or giant dog breeds should weigh more than 90 pounds, and typically more than 100 pounds.
What weight is considered a big dog?
To easily tell the difference between breed sizes, dog breeders use a sizing system in which a dog must weigh at least 50 pounds (sometimes 70 pounds) and stand around 24 inches tall to be classified as a large-breed dog.
What is considered a big dog?
Dogs weighing less than 30 pounds (14 kg) are classified as small dogs, while breeds weighing more than 55 pounds (25 kg) are classified as large dogs.
Should a 70 year old person get a puppy?
If you’re an older adult interested in getting a dog, your age should not be a barrier to dog ownership; however, factors such as your health and lifestyle can impact your ability to properly care for a dog.
Are puppies good for seniors?
A puppy or kitten may not be the best choice for elderly owners due to the intensive care and training they require, and young pets may outlive their owners. It’s also worth noting that some animals, such as birds, have exceptionally long lifespans.
At what age are dogs seniors?
Small dogs become senior citizens of the canine community when they reach the age of 11, while their medium-sized companions reach the age of ten, their larger-breed colleagues reach the age of eight, and their giant-breed counterparts reach the age of seven.