23 dog breeds suitable for seniors

You might be looking for one of the best dogs for seniors because if you’re a senior citizen (or looking on behalf of one), the idea of bringing home a puppy might be daunting, but if you make the right choice it could genuinely change your life.

Spending time with a four-legged friend has been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, while increasing serotonin in the brain (the 'feel-good chemical'), according to an article in Harvard Health. Meanwhile, the Mayo Clinic tells us that owning a dog doesn't just add to your happiness but also encourages you to lead a healthier lifestyle.

A dog can also be a powerful counter to the loneliness that often accompanies our twilight years, particularly after the loss of a partner, and some more affectionate breeds are well known for their tendency to shadow you about the house.

So, without further ado, let's take a closer look at the best dogs for seniors and find the perfect companion for you to share your retirement.

Best dog breeds for seniors

1. Pug

Looking for a housedog that’s happy to snuggle up with you throughout the day rather than begging you to take them out for a long hike? Pugs are a great breed to consider. They don't require a lot of exercise – 30 minutes a day does the trick – and like to avoid hot and cold weather.

Cuddly, loyal and affectionate, Pugs are happier having a nap next to (or on!) their human companion than braving warm weather or snow. They are also incredibly playful and entertaining, and love being the center of attention. Grab a couple of toys and they will entertain themselves – and you – for hours.

There are two things to bear in mind with pugs. Firstly, they’re prone to obesity, so you will need to resist those pleading eyes if you don't want them to get overweight. They are also a brachycephalic dog breed. This means they are flat-faced and can encounter breathing difficulties, so will need to be monitored.

2. Bichon frise

This fluffy and adorable, white-coated dog is one of the most affectionate dog breeds, so they're an ideal choice if you're looking for a canine companion that loves to snuggle.

Intelligent and obedient, the bichon frise is happy to share their living space with other pets and children, and their pleasant and cheerful view on life means they are perfectly happy to chill with their owners for most of the day.

A couple of short walks will ensure this breed stays fit, and they are very easy to housebreak and train. Their calm temperament means you shouldn't have any issues with barking, and their small size helps make them manageable.

They do need grooming once a day to keep their gorgeous coat in perfect condition, but other than that, they are a fairly low-maintenance breed.

3. Greyhound

You may think of greyhounds as whipping around a race track, and that the fastest dog breed in the world probably isn't one of the best dogs for seniors; however, greyhounds are some of the quietest, easiest and calmest breeds to manage.

Greyhounds go for short bursts of speed rather than needing exercise all the time, so as long as you can give them a chance to sprint all-out in a fenced-off area for a short period of time twice a day, they'll be happy loafing around on the sofa for the rest of it.

They also need very little grooming and are one of the easiest-going and trainable breeds. Though large, they are quiet and gentle and love nothing more than to snooze on the couch. They often need help keeping warm, but a cosy blanket or one of the best dog coats will do the trick.

4. French Bulldog

The incredibly easy-to-please and cheerful 'Frenchie' is never happier than when giving out and receiving affection. One of the best dog breeds for apartments, the affable French Bulldog isn't too keen on a lot of exercise – a quick trot to the shops or a play out in the yard will do them for the day.

They’re a spirited breed and love getting up to goofy antics, but they also love curling up on your lap or next to you on the sofa for a cuddle. What’s more, their short coats means grooming is kept to a minimum.

Another flat-faced breed, they are prone to overheating, so aren't suited to hot environments.

Keen to learn more about this lovable breed that’s the most popular dog in the US? Decide if the Frenchie is the right canine companion for you by checking out these six fascinating French Bulldog facts.

5. Shih tzu

Shih tzus are very friendly, small dogs that are perfect as lap warmers and thrive in smaller apartments. They crave love and attention and will be happy to follow you wherever you go.

Playful, but only needing low amounts of exercise – one walk a day will suit them – they are otherwise happy to spend the rest of their time snuggling up with their owners or playing with the best dog toys.

Shih tzus love people and other animals, so if you have grandchildren coming over you can be confident they will be very welcoming to them. They can be a bit stubborn and require a daily groom to keep their coats in good condition, but provided you can meet these training and grooming requirements they make wonderful companions.

6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Patient, affectionate, gentle, and with eyes that will melt your heart, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is never happier than when snuggling up to their chosen human companion – in fact, they were bred to be lap dogs for royalty.

Cavies are laid-back companions and are very easy to train. They will need moderate exercise – two walks a day – but are otherwise content with a slow-paced life. It's important to exercise them in enclosed spaces though or on an extendable leash as they do have a strong tendency to chase after anything that moves!

Their playful nature means they get on well with other animals and children. Their long silky coats will also need regular grooming sessions, so factor this in when making your decision on whether to own one.

7. Maltese

The tiny and elegant Maltese is another placid breed that was bred to be a lap dog, so they have no qualms with just moderate exercise and otherwise spending time indoors. They are even small enough to be carried around in a bag!

Lively and with a gentle temperament, the Maltese love attention and is very responsive to the mood of their owners – so much so they are often used as therapy dogs. You can also train them to do fun tricks relatively easily - perfect for entertaining visitors. T

hey are another breed that needs regular grooming sessions to keep their white fur in tip-top condition and bark to alert their owners of visitors or anything unusual. This might suit some seniors, but could be a nuisance to others!

8. Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a gorgeous, fox-like little dog with a winning smile and heaps of personality. They don’t require much exercise, just two 30 minute walks a day, but they will be able to keep up with you if you are more active and enjoy longer hikes. Just make sure to bring lots of water and treats!

They are a highly intelligent breed and relatively easy to train, but you must be sure to socialize them properly as they can be confrontational with other dogs (they believe themselves to be much larger than they actually are).

They are another dog who’ll soon let you know if anyone’s approaching the house. While small in stature, the Pomeranian is a very energetic breed, so perhaps not suitable for those looking for a quiet life.

They can also require quite a lot of grooming as they are long-haired, and might not be suitable for someone with arthritis in their hands, or someone not interested in the level of coat maintenance Poms require to prevent matting. They also shed a couple of times a year, so there will be some cleaning up after them.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the most popular toy dog breeds in many cities across the United States, and we can understand why. Among the most popular and best small dog breeds, they are easy to scoop up and put in a handbag if need be, and they are always up for an adventure (even if it’s just a trip to the shops).

Loving, loyal and full of personality, these dogs are a fantastic companion for those later in life who want a friend, but not one that requires a huge amount of exercise and maintenance.

They don’t shed much and although they require daily walks, their small stature means that these walks needn’t be very long. They can be quite vocal, so if you don’t want a yappy dog, the Yorkie might not be a good choice for you.

They are also known to be suspicious towards humans and other dogs if they are not socialized properly, so it’s important to ensure you train them to avoid reactivity and behavioral issues.

10. Corgi

The favorite of the late Queen Elizabeth II, the Welsh Corgi is a fabulous companion for those over 60. The American Kennel Club describes the Corgi as a “big dog in a small package,” due to the Corgi’s history as a cattle herding dog – you need a lot of confidence to face-off an animal many times your size.

They are great companion dogs without being too needy and have an independent streak, which makes them suitable for people who may want to leave them behind at home sometimes.

They are generally quite vocal, so not ideal for those who want a quieter breed, and are also fairly high in energy. They need around an hour of exercise a day, so may not a good match for people who want a laid-back dog that requires little exercise.

Corgis are possibly the most high-maintenance of the best dogs for seniors. As well as needing to burn off energy, they shed quite a lot, as they have a waterproof double coat, so if you don’t want to dedicate much time to grooming and cleaning up dog hair, they may not be the best choice for you.

However, Corgis are loving, loyal and very bright, so if you’re looking for a dog you can train, play with and take with you anywhere, then a Corgi may be the dog for you!

11. Dachshund

Dachshunds are another breed that has the “large dog in a small dog’s body” energy and personality. Traditionally used as badger hunting dogs, this breed is full of courage and will fight anything that looks at them the wrong way, which is why you must be very careful to socialize them properly.

Also known as “wiener dogs” or “sausage dogs”, they may require some home modifications to help them climb up and down from sofas and beds without causing damage to their long backs.

They don’t require a huge amount of exercise, as they are quite small and are happy to laze around all day, but they will require mental stimulation as they are a highly intelligent breed. A Daxie is likely to be vocal if a stranger approaches the front door, so they make great little guard dogs.

They also come in a variety of coat types; long haired, wire haired or smooth haired Dachshunds all shed differently and will require different levels of coat care, so this is worth bearing in mind if you’re considering a Daxie.

12. Brussels Griffon

With many internet famous Brussels Griffons, these dogs are known for their grumpy expressions and ability to grow fantastically long beards. They are sensitive, loving companions with an inflated sense of their place in the world.

They were originally bred as a ratting dog, so have a tendency to be aggressive and bark at the drop of a hat, but this makes them good as a guard dog for seniors living alone. A big voice attached to a small dog can be all it takes to scare off potentially undesirable visitors.

These dogs with beards come in long or short coated varieties and don’t shed a huge amount; there are dogs that shed less and dogs that shed a lot more. They also don’t drool too much, so if you’re worried about a dribbly dog, the Griff might be a good companion for you.

You may, however, spend more time than you bargained for cleaning that magnificent beard if you choose to keep it long; many people keep their Brussels Griffons’ coats trimmed short for this reason.

13. Chihuahua

The smallest dog in the world, the Chihuahua isn’t just a handbag-sized dog, it’s a pocket-sized dog! Not just one of the smallest dog breeds, they can also live longer than most dogs.

They are generally very loyal, bond fiercely with their owner and can become protective and snappy, so need to be properly socialized. This does make them a good companion for a person living alone, however, as they will have one person to focus their love and attention on.

They have low grooming requirements, particularly smooth-haired Chihuahuas (although longer-haired types can be prone to matting). They are prone to barking, so if this is likely to annoy you or your neighbors, another breed might be better.

They don’t require much exercise due to their size, but are active dogs that love play and require mental stimulation. They also one of several dog breeds that hate the cold, so are better suited to warmer climates.

14. West Highland Terrier

Their snowy-white coats and tenacious personalities make these gorgeous terriers a popular choice for many seniors. They are quite independent dogs, so are good if you’re not looking for a needy breed, and fairly compact, so good for apartment living.

Don’t be misled by their small stature; these are solid dogs and can be quite heavy, so not suitable for someone who might not be physically able to move a Westie around. They don’t need huge amounts of exercise but are prone to weight gain, so you will have to ensure to keep them on a nutritious diet and keep your own food out of their reach. This Scottish dog breed requires regular grooming, including “stripping” to clear out their undercoat as they are a double-coated breed.

They are known to have a high prey drive, can be vocal and can also be problem diggers, so keep them away from your favorite flower beds if this is of concern! They will need careful socialization as they are typical terriers and can be stubborn and aggressive with other dogs and sometimes people. That said, they are worth the effort and will never fail to make you smile.

15. Maltipoo

One of the many sweet poodle mixes, the Maltipoo makes a great companion for older people, especially those who don't want to be cleaning up lots of dog hair because they are one of those brilliant small dogs that hardly shed.

The cross between a poodle and a Maltese produces a sweet-tempered dog that generally wants nothing more than to cuddle up on the sofa with their human. Their walking requirement is relatively low – a couple of short strolls will do the trick – and they're super affectionate to boot. Make sure you brush your Maltipoo daily to help mitigate matting.

16. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are smart dogs with short, low-maintenance coats. They are known as the "American Gentleman" due to their kind, polite natures and intelligence. They have relatively low exercise requirements, so are suitable for older people, and make great companions for those living in smaller spaces, as they are compact little dogs.

Bostons can be vocal and wary of strange dogs, so benefit from socialization from an early age, which is a great excuse to get out and meet other local dog owners.

17. Whippet

Contrary to popular belief, whippets don't actually require a lot of exercise. They are miniature versions of the greyhound, also known as the "world's fastest couch potato" and have similar temperaments.

They enjoy a cozy sofa, and a cuddle and are generally very quiet, quite introverted dogs with short, low-maintenance coats. They like the heating cranked up and a blanket to snuggle under, too.

18. Pekingese 

The Pekingese is a Chinese toy breed known for being smart and affectionate. They are quite small and therefore don't require too much exercise and are suitable for smaller homes.

However, bear in mind that their long fluffy coats require a lot of grooming and maintenance. They’re also best suited to seniors who want a dog that’s alert to people approaching the home, because they will soon let you know!

19. English Bulldog

The English Bulldog may look mournful, but they're very sweet, soulful dogs that make great companions for any stage of life. Although short, they are a mastiff breed, and famously docile. They tend to waddle a little and keep their pace fairly slow, so can be good walking partners if your own pace is on the slower side.

Their short coats make for minimal grooming, but be aware that this flat-faced dog may struggle with in the heat, even if they aren’t exercising vigorously.

20. Japanese Chin

If you're looking for a dog that is more of a cat at heart, the Japanese Chin is a toy breed known for their catlike tendencies. They enjoy high spots and have remarkable balance, which contributes to their oddly feline disposition.

Also known as the Japanese Spaniel, these dogs make wonderful companions and lap dogs, being the perfect size to curl up on their favorite person's lap. They are perfectly content with two walks of around 20 minutes a day, but do enjoy play.

Their silky coats will need a daily comb to be kept tangle-free and they should be monitored for breathing difficulties due to their short snouts.

21. Border Terrier

Borders are lovely dogs to own, with quirky personalities and a desire to please their owner. As small-sized dogs, they don't require the endless walks that a larger dog might, but they're still best suited to a fairly active home. They’ll especially enjoy ball and brain games!

As far as terrier breeds go, they are relatively chilled and have a great attitude to work, originally bred as companions to "terrier men" and used by hunters to flush foxes from their holes (known as bolting). They were also used as rodent control and to hunt otters, so you might need to be careful with them around cats or smaller animals.

Border terriers shed a reasonable amount, so keep this in mind if you like a clean home.

22. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff, both of which can be found in the same litter. The hairless (unsurprisingly) is a naked breed, with tufts on the ears and tail, while the powderpuff has more of a coat. As such, grooming requirements are pretty low!

They are playful and affectionate, bred as lapdogs for royalty after being brought to China as early as 200BC, so they fit the bill very well as a companion pooch who doesn't need much walking.

They are loyal to their humans and suspicious of strangers, so may require careful socialization if you’re not keen on being alerted every time someone approaches the door.

23. Havanese 

The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and is similar to the bichon in appearance and temperament. They are cheerful dogs, with smart minds and outgoing personalities that can get along with anyone, making them one of the best dogs for companionship.

They're good with kids and other dogs and love their family. They are among the best dogs for seniors because they are small in size, have great social skills, and a low walking requirement.

How to choose the best dog for seniors

Life is better with a dog around, but choosing from amongst the best dogs for seniors can be a complicated and stressful process. Picking any dog is a big decision, particularly if you're making a 10-15 year commitment, but as we age, we also need to take into consideration our mobility levels, living space and lifestyle as well.

A dog that requires long walks and lots of mental stimulation, like a collie, may not be a good choice for someone with limited mobility, and you might want to factor in employing a regular dog walker if you really want an active pooch.

If you have arthritis, you may find that maintaining the coat of a long-haired breed is difficult, so a smooth-haired or wire-haired dog might be a better choice. It is also worth noting the financial needs of your dog and if they are affordable for you.

Can seniors adopt rescue dogs?

According to companion animal vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan, rescue dogs can also be the best dogs for seniors.

“Getting an older dog may work better for some people as they can skip the difficult puppy training phase and go straight to an adult dog,” remarks companion animal vet Dr MacMillan. “Plus, the initial costs of adoption are cheaper and there is often ongoing advice available from the rescue centre.”

Dog ownership brings so many benefits, so it is worth exploring this option with your local rescue center if a puppy is not feasible for you. There might be the perfect dog out there who is just looking for a quiet home with some gentle one-on-one attention.

What dog care considerations should seniors make?

As well as considering your own physical ability and health before getting a puppy, finances are another important thing to factor in.

“You must be able to budget for your puppy’s care, not just the initial purchase but for all of their veterinary, food, and grooming bills for the next 12 years or so,” advises Dr MacMillan. “This can add up if you are retired and don’t have a significant income stream.”

Depending on your age and health status, you might also need to plan for what might happen in the event of your death or deteriorating wellbeing.

“No one likes to talk about these things,“ says Dr MacMillan. “But, it can give you peace of mind if you have a trusted family member or friend in place who would guarantee your dog a great home.”

Enjoyed this? Here’s our round-up of the best behaved dog breeds

Expert comment from

Expert comment from

Dr Rebecca MacMillan

Rebecca is a veterinary surgeon who graduated in 2009 from the Royal Veterinary College in London. She has a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, having done a mixture of day-to-day routine work, on-call emergency duties and managerial roles over the years. Rebecca enjoys medicine in particular and she is proud to have recently achieved a BSAVA postgraduate certificate in small animal medicine (with commendation).

She writes on various feline and canine topics, including behavior, nutrition, and health. Outside of work and writing she enjoys walking her own dog, spending time with her young family and baking!

Edited by Georgia Guerin.