Do you want to get a dog, but you are unsure of which breed to get because you are a senior? Many dog breeds would be suited for seniors, and dogs who are ideal companions would be the perfect match for any senior.
Here is a list of 30 dog breeds that you, as a senior, can choose from to get your ideal companion dog.
Table of Contents
List Of 30 Best Dog Breeds For Seniors
1. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a small breed, generally weighing about 25 pounds. These small dogs are great for seniors because of their small size and calm nature. French Bulldogs do not require much exercise, and a walk would suffice for your French Bulldog. Frenchies also do not bark; they typically bark only when necessary.
2. Chinese Crested
This dog breed is ideal for seniors who love to spend time relaxing. The Chinese crested can be described as couch potatoes who could lounge the day away. They do not mind spending quite a bit of time indoors, even though they are athletic and highly sociable. Chinese crested dogs are friendly to children, other pets, and strangers.
3. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
If you are looking for a dog breed that is easy to train and highly intelligent, then the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is the dog breed for you. These dogs are energetic dogs who have a thirst for adventure. If you are an active individual who enjoys participating in various adventures, then you would find your lifelong companion is a Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
4. Miniature Schnauzer
Mischievous, passionate, and intelligent are commonly used to describe the Miniature Schnauzer. They are also highly protective of their family and are not shy to vocalize their disapproval. Since Miniature Schnauzers are so intelligent, they thrive when challenged mentally or are allowed to explore to quench their curiosity.
5. Labrador Retriever
Although they were initially bred as guard/retriever dogs, Labrador Retrievers are excellent companion dogs. As you can guess from their origins, they require quite a bit of exercise so that they can be happy. They generally do not enjoy being left alone, or they may become destructive if you can meet their exercise needs and give them enough attention.
6. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small dog breed that typically stands between 8 to 11 inches, and they weigh between 9 to 16 pounds. Although they have a double fur coat with plush fur, the Shih Tzu does not shed much. The Shih Tzu breed is also plagued with several health issues, including brachycephalic, which is due to the shape of their muzzles.
7. Scottish Terrier
Originally from the Highlands of Scotland, the Scottish Terrier was bred to be a farming or hunting breed. They have a pretty spirited personality and tend to be alert to things happening around them. Also, they are small; Scottish Terriers can be strong-willed, which can cause a bit of frustration while training them.
8. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are perky and assertive dogs. Unless trained with patience and persistence, they can become bossy and not listen to anyone. Once trained, Pomeranians are exceptional companions. They generally connect better with older individuals.
9. Dachshund
Characterized for its distinctly long body and little stubby legs, the small Dachshund is amongst the favorite family dogs. Although they are small, Dachshunds are willful and energetic. Since they are small and do not shed much, they can easily adapt to any living arrangements. However, bear in mind that Dachshunds can be rather vocal.
10. Retrievers
Retrievers possess several talents, and they work exceptionally hard. They love to be challenged in various ways and to learn new skills. Their eagerness to learn makes them easy to train. Retrievers are ideal companion dogs because they relish the opportunity to grow and learn beside their owners.
11. Yorkshire Terrier
Although highly energetic and slightly domineering, Yorkshire Terriers are affectionate dogs. They want to feel loved and show their affection quite openly. They would be the ideal breed for someone who has a lot of love to give to their dog. Their affectionate nature makes them perfect guard dogs who would protect their family.
12. Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are a crossbreed of the Golden Retriever and Poodle. As expected, based on their parents, Goldendoodles are affectionate. They are also widely loved for their hypoallergenic fur coats. You could get a Goldendoodle in various sizes, large and miniature. If you are a novice dog owner, then a Goldendoodle would be an excellent choice as your first dog.
13. Boston Terrier
Although they bear a canning resemblance to the French Bulldogs, the Boston Terriers can be distinguished based on their ears. The Boston Terrier’s ears are more pointed when compared to the French Bulldog. They originated from America and could supply you with a lifetime of entertainment. Their playful nature can cause them to be a bit naughty at times.
14. Maltese
Famed for their silky, shiny, and long fur coats, the Maltese have had several names over the years, including Maltese Terrier. The Maltese’s beautiful fur makes it seem like they are floating while they walk. Although it will require significant grooming to maintain the health and beauty of such fur, some dog owners enjoy the process. It allows you to bond with your dog.
15. West Highland White Terrier
These confident dogs are ideal for senior owners. The West Highland White Terriers are bold and fun-loving. Despite being slightly mischievous at times, the West Highland White Terrier is a favorite for many dog owners. Their personalities can instantly brighten up any room.
16. Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is an easy-going dog breed. They are small dogs generally between 14 to 15 inches tall and weigh about 30 pounds. They tend to grow attached to their owners, which means that it is likely that they would follow you from room to room or curl up on the couch next to you.
17. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers can be described as being jacks of all trades. They are highly versatile dogs who can take up the role of a working breed or a companion breed. As companions, Golden Retrievers are even-tempered, loyal, and mildly affectionate. Golden Retrievers are great with children and other pets too.
18. Havanese
The Havanese is a breed commonly owned as companion dogs, and they thrive when they are in a loving home with affectionate owners. The silky fur coat of a Havanese dog requires frequent grooming, and you would have to allow your Havanese fur to grow long and maintain the silky texture through careful grooming.
19. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound was originally bred to be a hunting dog in the United States, and now they are more commonly owned as companion dogs. They have laid-back personalities, and they also love playing with kids. Their laid-back attitude could result in them gaining excess weight, so you should ensure that your Basset hound gets an adequate amount of physical activity.
20. Pug
Pugs are small dogs between 11 to 12 inches tall and weigh between 14 to 18 pounds. They do not require much daily exercise; 20 minutes each day should suffice for a Pug. Pugs have high social needs and enjoy interacting with others. Bear in mind that Pugs tend to snore quite a bit because of their short muzzles.
21. English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a firm working breed with the innate urge to be around people and work. They are a lively and energetic breed of dogs who are also intelligent.
English Springer Spaniel tends to have chewing problems as puppies; however, you can train them to forsake his tendency. Early socialization is vital to ensure that your English Springer Spaniel can interact with other dogs and people.
22. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed that has a big personality. They are funny, lively, and eager to please their owners. Lhasa Apso originated from Tibet, where they were bred to be watchdogs for royalty. Their lion-like straight, thick, luscious fur coats can be spotted from miles away.
23. Greyhound
Although their appearance may be intimidating at first, the greyhound can be described as gentle and graceful. They are sweet dogs who enjoy the family environment. Even though greyhounds are hounds, they have medium exercise needs. They would make the ideal hiking partner due to their adventure-seeking nature and hound capabilities.
24. Beagle
Although Beagles are vocal dogs, they are not the most confrontational, which does not make them the ideal guard dog. However, they are well distinguished as companions. They are active and curious dogs, and they tend to wander off, so you should keep an eye on your Beagle to ensure that they do not wander off to unknown or dangerous places.
25. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These toy dogs have a sophisticated appearance. They are charming and cute while having high attention needs. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have an average amount of energy and require a minimum of 20 minutes of physical exercise daily. Due to their playful nature, you could take them to the park for a few games, and they would be overjoyed.
26. English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel is a dog breed that can adapt to living in apartments. They are medium-sized dogs who generally tend to be happy. These dogs can adapt to any weather but prefer the cold over hot weather. They are friendly dogs and playful dogs. If given the space, they could wander off easily, so you should watch them as they play.
27. Poodle
The Poodle is a dog breed that comes in various sizes. They are often regulars at dog shows because of their impressive mobility and beauty. The fluffy and perky appearance of the Poodle is sought after by many dog owners. Poodles require a minimum of 40 minutes of physical exercise every day.
28. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise is a small and fluffy dog. Their fluffy appearance makes them look like they are made up entirely of cotton candy. However, they require significant grooming to maintain their fur coats’ fluffiness. Although the Bichon Frise is a loving breed, they tend to be mischievous.
29. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are renowned for their sassy and prominent personalities. Chihuahuas love being close to their owners, and because of their small size, they can always be near their owners even while running some errands. They are busy dogs who could also make ideal watchdogs. Chihuahuas are generally suspicious of strangers; however, with early socialization, they can learn how to interact with other people accordingly.
30. Collie
Collies are energetic dogs who have medium social needs. They generally weigh between 60 to 75 pounds while being 50 to 55 centimeters tall. If you get a Collie, you need to allow them to release their pent-up energy. They love to run around, so a trip to a park and a few rounds of fetch would be ideal for them.
Things To Consider Before Choosing A Dog Breed For Seniors
Age
You should consider a dog’s age before getting them as a senior. If you feel up to the challenge, you could get a puppy. However, you should remember that puppies are generally more energetic and require significantly more attention than older dogs.
Should your dog outlive you, you should consider whether you have someone to care for them. If you want a companion who is already somewhat trained, an older dog would be your best pet, and older dogs are also generally much calmer than puppies.
Grooming
Some breeds need more grooming than other breeds. Some dogs can be bathed once in several weeks and brushed now and then, while other breeds require frequent baths, better shampoos, frequent trims, and brushes. You should consider a breed’s grooming requirements when choosing your dog.
Disposition
A dog’s disposition is its temperament. Although all dogs are unique, dogs belonging to the same breed tend to have general similarities. If you are more of an easy-going individual, you should choose a breed that is also easygoing. You should ultimately choose a dog whose temperament matches your own or one whose temperament you will be able to deal with.
Size
Your dog’s size is another crucial factor to consider when choosing the ideal breed. As a senior, you may be inclined to get a giant dog so that they may act as guard dogs to protect you. However, larger dogs tend to be stronger, so they may push you over when they are excited, resulting in an injury.
Smaller dogs are generally easier to manage than large dogs. A small dog would be ideal because they can easily live in apartments, and you would not have to make too much space for their bed.
Energy Level
As can be expected, not all dog breeds are the same. Just as various dog breeds can differ in size, weight, and food consumption, different dog breeds have different energy levels. If you cannot move around much or live in an apartment where your dog cannot simply play in the yard on its own, you should choose a dog breed with those facts in mind.
However, if you live in the countryside, where you have ample yard space for your dog to play, you could choose a more energetic breed because their exercise needs would be catered for. You should choose your dog based on your energy level, living situation, and level of mobility.
FAQ
Best Dog For Seniors While Traveling?
Generally, the Labrador Retriever, Yorkshire Terrier, and Maltese are excellent travel companions. Various dogs are suited for travel, whether large or small, and the best breed for traveling depends on the mode of transport.
5 Best Dogs For Seniors With Allergies?
The Maltese, Shih Tzu, Havanese, West Highland White Terrier, and Poodle are ideal dogs for seniors with allergies. They are all hypoallergenic.
Is 70 Too Old To Get A Dog?
No, 70 is not too old to get a dog; however, you should consider getting a puppy or an older dog. As a senior, you may find that a puppy will be quite a handful in training and dealing with the mess they tend to create.
Should A Senior Citizen Get A Puppy?
Yes, a senior citizen should get a puppy. However, this is dependent on whether they will be able to handle how restless puppies tend to be. They should also be able to train their puppy and give them the attention they need.
Is A Golden Retriever Good For Seniors?
Yes, a Golden Retriever is a good dog for seniors. Golden Retrievers are notably responsible, cool-headed, and relatively amicable.
Is A Yorkie A Good Dog For Seniors?
Yes, a Yorkshire is a good dog for seniors. As toy-sized dogs, they are commonly sought after by seniors because they can fit right on their lap, and they do not have the brute force that large dogs do.
Is A Poodle A Good Dog For Seniors?
Yes, Poodles are good dogs for seniors. Poodles are brilliant dogs, which means that they can easily be trained, and this trait is idle for a senior.
Conclusion
As a senior citizen, you should not let your age discourage you from getting yourself a furry buddy. There are many breeds, large and small; you could choose from.
When choosing your companion, you should consider your habits, such as your level of activity, personality, and the amount of time you are willing to invest in grooming and training your dog. Once you have considered all of those, you will be able to get a companion like no other.
