When we reach old age, sometimes, the only thing that brings us joy and peace is having a companion to be with us through the last couple of years of our lives. Because of this, finding the perfect furry friend is crucial to making the most out of every second! Senior-friendly dog breeds offer not just companionship but also loyalty and comfort tailored to their needs, so if you’re looking for a pet for your mom or dad, check out our list of dog breeds that will undoubtedly steal the hearts of every senior citizen in the room!
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
For older people or senior citizens who are still slightly active, Pembroke Welsh Corgis would be a great option. These dogs are an active breed and very athletic. They’re among the most agreeable house dogs, are pretty small, and could easily adapt to apartments or smaller homes. Queen Elizabeth II was one of the most famous Pembroke Welsh Corgi owners in history, as she owned more than 30 of this breed in her lifetime.
Maltese
Maltese are excellent lap dogs, making them a great choice for seniors. They’re small, happy, and content to be petted and cuddled all day. Additionally, their silky coats are easy and simple to maintain, making them less of a hassle to care for, especially when their owners are senior citizens. This ease of maintenance can provide a sense of relief and confidence to potential owners.
Beagle
Beagles are one of the most affectionate and friendliest dogs. However, they still appreciate their independence, making them a great dog choice for senior citizens who don’t want to devote most of their days to cuddling their furry friends. Marin & Sonoma Pet Waste Removal says, “These short, lovable dogs are often recommended for seniors because they aren’t too much fuss to groom and always crave human company.” However, dog owners of this beautiful breed should be able to commit around 20 to 30 minutes of their day to walk them.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small, quiet, and sweet lap dogs. If other dogs love running around outside, these dogs’ favorite thing to do is snuggle and cuddle with their owners. However, if their owner needs someone to accompany them for walks, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels would jump at the chance to do so!
Miniature or Toy Poodle
Some poodles could grow incredibly large, making it hard for older people to manage them. Because of this, miniature or toy poodles, which are, as their name implies, more petite, are perfect fits! Dogster explains, “These dogs make great pets for households with older children, single adults, and seniors. These dogs love spending time with humans and will do just about anything to please them; they can get along well with other pets in the household, yet they don’t mind being an ‘only child’ at home.”
Bichon Frisé
Many people describe the Bichon Frisé as the quintessential lap dog. This makes them perfect for older adults who lack the energy and physical mobility to go outside and be active. Bichon Frisés are also very trainable and don’t shed much, making it easy for senior citizens to care for them.
Pug
Pugs are very low-energy dogs. So, if you’re a senior citizen who’s not all that active anymore, pugs might be an excellent choice for a pet! Pug Village says, “The Pug definitely falls into the category of a small-breed dog, and their size, as well as their dietary requirement, are easy to manage. This breed has very low energy levels and low exercise needs, both of which are great for seniors who have limited mobility.”
Cocker Spaniel
Another excellent dog breed to consider for senior citizens is the Cocker Spaniel. These dogs’ personalities go exceptionally well with most seniors’ lifestyles. They are very docile, affectionate, and loyal dogs, and a Cocker Spaniel’s temperament and adaptability also make them easy to care for.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is another excellent choice for older adults looking for a companion. They have a pleasant temperament and are incredibly loyal. Additionally, they are easy to care for because they don’t shed as much and are hypoallergenic. Though these dogs have an active streak, they don’t always have to be active, so moderate exercise will be perfect for them!
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are a bit hard to train, but their small size makes them a great candidate for prospective senior citizen owners. Additionally, though they can be quite stubborn, Shih Tzus are devoted, gentle dogs who are happy to be with their owners. Petplan shares, “Shih Tzus relish human company and are happiest when they’re at your feet or side, so are best suited for owners who can be home most of the time.”
French Bulldog
At first glance, French Bulldogs don’t seem to be the right kind of pet for people with limited mobility. After all, though they’re small, they present as active dogs that need a lot of attention. However, don’t let this put you off. Though French Bulldogs are highly active, they also get tired very easily; this means mobile senior citizens could still care for them as long as they can give them a small but moderate amount of exercise every day.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are very attentive dogs who are responsive to their owners. They’re also known for being attached to and fond of seniors, as they crave companionship. The Boston Terrier Society explains, “Bostons are a companion breed, low maintenance breed, friendly to all, small but sturdy, happy to cuddle and go on walks. While energetic and chipper dogs, Boston Terriers are equally excited being cuddle bugs and napping near you throughout the day.”
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers, the smallest of the Schnauzer breed, are perfect loving companions to the elderly. They aren’t aggressive to humans but can be protective of their owners. Additionally, their small size makes it very easy for seniors to care for them. They live long lives, around 12 to 15 years, making them one of the best choices for older people who need a constant companion in their latter years.
West Highland White Terrier
West Highland White Terriers, or Westies, are light dogs weighing between 15 and 20 pounds, making them easy for senior citizens to handle. They are also famous for their affectionate, friendly, and loving nature. Westies are easygoing dogs that can also be quite independent, making them the perfect choice for the elderly who still want some space in their personal lives.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are gentle and loving dogs that are a good choice for seniors, especially those with grandchildren who visit them frequently. PetHelpful adds, “They are happy to treat you like a Tibetan monk and just sit on your lap or lie on your feet and keep them company, but they also make great watchdogs.”
Miniature Dachshund
Because of their small size, Miniature Dachshunds are perfect for older people living in apartments or smaller homes. They are very affectionate and adaptable, making them great companions. However, these dogs can be pretty active, too, so if you’re considering getting one as a pet, you should make sure you can take them on walks for some exercise.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dogs out there. Aside from their size, they’re also great lap dogs because they relish cuddling and snuggling with their owners—they love to be doted upon! Chihuahuas, however, can get noisy with all their high-pitched barking, so if you’re a senior citizen with sensitive hearing, you may want to opt for other dogs on this list.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are one of the best options for senior citizens’ pets. Because they are inherently small dogs, they are great for apartment living or for elderly people living in senior living communities. Aside from this, Pomerians are very affectionate dogs that love to snuggle and stay in their owners’ laps.
Yorkshire Terrier
Another popular lap dog choice is the Yorkshire Terrier. These small dogs simply adore their owners and, therefore, love being around them. Because they are small dogs, it’s normal for them to remain at 10 pounds or lower in weight, making it easy for senior citizens to pick them up, carry them around, walk them on a leash, or hold them in their laps.
Greyhound
When you think of a dog for a senior citizen, Greyhounds would probably not be high on your list. However, these dogs are very calm and content and enjoy lounging around the house after they get moderate exercise. They are great options for senior citizens who don’t like smaller breeds, as Greyhounds are gentle, quiet, and compassionate giants.