Certain dog breeds such as beagles, dachshunds, pomeranians, and pugs can be excellent canine companions for senior citizens.
Before buying a pet for an older family member or friend, make sure to take into consideration their needs and abilities.
Wondering about the best dogs for senior citizens?
Dogs have very different habits, personalities, and skills that make them better suited for certain types of people. Matching up a dog with an owner should offer advantages to both and they should be able to take care of each other for the foreseeable future.
When choosing a dog that will be a good fit for an older loved one, there are many things to consider, such as:
Fortunately, there are certain breeds that we can wholeheartedly recommend for most senior citizens. Keep on reading to find the perfect pup for your loved one!
Here are 12 of the best dog breeds to consider for your senior loved one:
Basset hounds are perfect for older individuals because they are relatively low energy and need little exercise to stay happy and healthy.
They prefer to while away the hours cuddled up on the couch or laying on the floor.
Basset hounds do not bark much, even at strangers. If you’re looking for a good canine companion that won’t disturb your loved one and their neighbors with loud noises, they may be your best bet.
Beagles are great for those who live in apartments, condos, or small houses because they are not very big—their maximum height is 13 inches at the shoulder, and they weigh under 30 pounds.
Beagles have a sweet temperament, and they get along with everyone they meet, including other animals.
They do need quite a bit of physical and mental stimulation each day so you may need to enlist the help of a friend or other family members if your senior loved one isn’t up to it.
Also Read: Pros and Cons of Owning a Beagle
This breed is perfect for any senior citizen who lives in an apartment because they are very small (only 7 kg when fully grown) and will not take up much space.
They are easy to train and need little exercise, which is ideal if your loved one is not in good enough health to provide much playtime.
Boston terriers are incredibly intelligent dogs that are fairly easy to train.
They have fantastic temperaments that make them great partners for young children and older adults.
They need very little grooming, and your senior loved one won’t be bothered by dog hair everywhere when they have a terrier.
Golden retrievers are very loving and loyal to their owners.
They require a lot of attention so if your loved one is looking for a canine companion to be by their side all the time, then an energetic golden retriever may be a perfect choice.
Bulldogs are also great for those who live in small houses or apartments.
They are relatively low-energy and are happy to spend hours just relaxing with their owners.
They are also relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming. They don’t shed very much so you won’t notice their hair on the floor or on the furniture!
Daschunds are small, fun-loving dogs with a very protective nature, making them a perfect dog breed for senior citizens.
They are very loyal and are happy to spend their lives besides their owners.
Labs are incredibly loyal, and they quickly form close connections with their owners. They are very affectionate and energetic, and they breathe life into any room they’re in.
Labs are relatively large dogs that need a lot of space to move around in so they’re an excellent choice if your senior loved one has a spacious home and garden.
Also Read: Pros and Cons of Owning a Labrador
Miniature schnauzers are perfect tiny pets for those in small apartments or condos—their maximum adult height is only 14 inches.
They are fairly high-energy, but they are easy to train. It should be easy enough for anyone to calm them down when they get the zoomies.
Schnauzers are incredibly friendly and loyal dogs that are excellent companions for senior citizens.
Pomeranians are very affectionate dogs that love cuddles, hugs, and kisses from their owners. They are fond of human company.
They will follow you around the house, greet you at the door when you get home from work, and wait patiently in your lap when you sit down to watch TV.
They are also known for being loyal to their family members.
Pomeranians require daily grooming as well as daily exercise so if your loved one is not up to it, you may want to consider other breeds we mention.
Pugs are great for seniors and young children alike due to their loving nature.
They require minimal exercise, but they do need daily attention to keep them happy.
Pugs are very easy to take care of, so they make the perfect pets for seniors who prefer low-key company.
Pugs are excellent companions in daily life. They are loyal, and they always want to keep their owner’s company. Their friendly natures encourage their owners to socialize as well so it’s a win-win!
Shih Tzus are calm and can be kept indoors for long hours, making them excellent companions for seniors who spend most of their time at home.
They are very easy to train, and they are very comfortable at home.
Shih Tzus are relatively low-maintenance. They are not picky eaters, which means you don’t have to feed them a special diet or cook for them separately.
If you’re looking for the best dogs for senior citizens, there are many to choose from. They come in all shapes, sizes, energy levels, and shed in different amounts, allowing you to easily make a good match between the dog and owner.
Keep in mind your senior loved one’s needs, capabilities, housing situation, and daily schedule so you can pick the perfect pet that will provide many years of unconditional love and companionship.
Meet Paul, a devoted dog dad to the delightful French Bulldog, Cofi. With a flair for humor and a deep understanding of Frenchie quirks, Paul brings a lighthearted touch to his writings. His relatable stories and practical insights are a blend of laughter and valuable advice and resonate with fellow dog owners.
Through his words, Paul aims to celebrate the joys and challenges of being a dedicated pet parent, reminding you that life is simply better with a four-legged, snorting sidekick by your side.
