10 Dog Breeds that Are Great for Older Adults

Dogs are a senior’s best friend. Research shows that having a pet may boost your mood, keep you active, and may even reduce blood pressure and increase heart health. That’s why we don’t just allow pets — we love them! 

Things to Consider:

Size

Smaller dogs can be a great match for seniors. Compared to larger breeds, dogs under 30 pounds can be easier to handle on a leash and transport to the vet, groomer or a relative’s house.

Age

When most people think of getting a new dog, they imagine getting a puppy. While puppies are adorable, they can also be destructive and rambunctious. For older adults, adopting an older dog may be the best option. Older dogs are often already trained and have outgrown their rascally ways. 

Grooming

While many long-haired breeds shed less, they typically require regular, professional grooming. Consider which is more convenient for you: a little extra vacuuming or a monthly trip to the groomer. 

Rescuing

Adopting a rescue is a great cause, and it can also be more affordable than a pet store or breeder. You may find both purebred or mixed-breed dogs from the list below at your local shelter, plus many trained, older dogs who would love to cuddle up with you.

Here are the top 10 dog breeds for seniors.

Pug

If you love squishy faces and bubbly personalities, this breed is for you. Show a pug some love, and this happy-go-lucky pup will be glued to your side. Pugs typically weigh around 13 to 20 pounds and have minimal grooming needs — a simple brush now and then and daily cleaning of the wrinkles on their faces will do the trick.

Poodle

These dogs aren’t just incredibly smart and personable — they’re also a no-shed breed that can be great for people with allergies. These loving pups come in a variety of sizes, from toy to miniature to standard, and require a monthly trip to the groomer. Plus, if a purebred poodle isn’t your style, there are tons of “designer dogs” like the Maltepoo (Maltese and poodle), Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and poodle) and Schnoodle (Schnauzer and poodle). 

Italian Greyhound

These lap dogs have all the sleek looks of a standard greyhound at a fraction of the size. Weighing in at 7 to fourteen pounds, the Italian greyhound is a chic yet cuddly breed that’s perfect for older adults. Historically, these dogs were bred to be companions to nobility — they were literally designed to lay in your lap. They love nothing more than snuggling up, and their short coat means no trips to the groomer.

Corgi

Just one look at a corgi’s smile says it all about this breed: they’re friendly, outgoing and love to be around their human companions. They may have stumpy legs and a goofy grin, but corgis can be quite independent and intelligent dogs. Their grooming needs are minimal, and they weigh in at about 25 to 30 pounds, which makes them easy to handle.

Shih Tzu

The name “shih tzu” translates to “little lion,” but don’t let its ferocious name fool you. These little lap dogs are loving, affectionate and dignified. At around nine to 16 pounds, they’re easy to handle and make excellent companions on both long walks and laid-back movie marathons.

With its long, luscious locks, you might think the shih tzu is a heavy shedder. But because of its unique double coat, the shih tzu is a no-shedding breed. However, it does require a monthly trip to the groomer.

Cocker Spaniel

Docile and affectionate, it’s a well-known fact that the Cocker Spaniel is an excellent family companion, especially for older adults and children. Easygoing and weighing in at 20 to 30 pounds, these gentle pups are incredibly loyal. A monthly trip to the groomer will keep their long, soft locks in check.

Bichon Frise

Another no-shed breed, these little dogs pack a lot of love in a 15-pound package. Bichons are naturally happy and outgoing. This calm breed makes for a great apartment pet, although they do have short bursts of energy from time to time. To maintain optimum fluff, these pups should see a groomer every four to six weeks.

Cockapoo

Why choose between a poodle and a Cocker Spaniel when you can have both? The Cockapoo is a small yet hardy breed, weighing in at around 20 pounds. These dogs love cuddling as much as they love clowning around, and are sure to make you laugh. Cockapoos are extremely smart and people-oriented, which means they’ll want to be at your side at all times. This breed sheds very little, though it does require regular grooming to keep its long coat in check.

Chihuahua

Classy yet sassy, the Chihuahua is a popular pet among older adults. What makes them so perfect for seniors? These clever little dogs are loyal and loving, not to mention they are cute to boot. Their short coat means minimal grooming, and they usually weigh around six pounds.

Dachshund

Last but not least is the dachshund, AKA, the wiener dog. Just as hot dogs come in many styles, this diverse breed has a wide array of sizes, coats, and colors. Whether your dachshund is short- or long-haired, standard-sized or miniature, these dogs are always loyal, loving and peppy.