12 Best Dog Breeds for Seniors and Retirees

Leah Flores / Stocksy
Everyone is different, but we generally slow down a bit as we age. The desire for companionship, however, never wanes. Picking the right dog to suit your lifestyle in older age, however, is important — no one should take on the responsibility of a dog they can’t keep up with. Good dogs for seniors share a few traits in common.

Ideal traits in dogs for seniors

Generally speaking, the best dogs for seniors are those who match their lifestyle, energy levels, and physical abilities, including: 

• Lower-energy dogs with calm temperaments
• Dogs who need low-to-moderate exercise
• Small to medium-sized dogs (who tend to be easier to physically handle)

Seniors should also consider a dog’s training and socialization history. A dog who is already trained and well-behaved is likely a better fit than a puppy who requires a lot of time, energy, and effort to train.

Temperament is also important because dogs can offer much-needed emotional support and companionship for older people, especially those experiencing chronic loneliness. Dogs who are social, friendly, and comfortable with other family members or pets in the household are great fits. Here are some of the best dogs for senior dog parents to adopt.

Best dogs for seniors and older adults

1. Senior Rescue Dog

A senior rescue dog may be the best fit for a senior pet parent. Older mixed-breed dogs in rescues tend to get overlooked, though they are just as loving and wonderful as younger pups —and they have characteristics that make them a good choice for senior pet parents. Senior dogs tend to have lower energy levels and fewer exercise requirements than puppies or younger dogs, making them great matches for seniors with limited mobility or energy levels.

2. Cockapoo

Cockapoos are very smart and usually in the small to medium-sized range, making them a great breed for seniors. They’re very affectionate and social — they get along with people and other pets — and are pretty adaptable to most environments; they do well in apartments or places with minimal space. They like a lively walk but don’t have demanding exercise needs. They’re also considered hypoallergenic, as they’re a mixed breed dog that is part Poodle and part Cocker Spaniel; Poodles grow curly hair-like coats that don’t shed much, and most Cockapoos tend to have similar fur. 

3. Pugs

Pugs are small, sturdy dogs known for their distinctive wrinkled faces, curly tails, and playful and affectionate personalities. They typically weigh between 14 and 18 pounds and have short, smooth coats of various colors. Pugs are known for their outgoing, friendly, and affectionate personalities; they love spending time with their people. While Pugs are a small breed, they enjoy regular walks and exercise, which can be a good match for an active senior. Pugs are intelligent and eager to please, but early socialization and training are important. Unfortunately, their adorable squished faces can lead to health issues, including breathing problems, eye problems, and skin allergies. Regular veterinary care is important to keep them healthy.

4. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a small breed originating from Tibet, where they were most often used as guard dogs. They can consequently be quite loud around perceived intruders, but that does mean they don’t mind being alone for periods of time. While they can grow a long, silky coat, many people keep their Lhasa Apsos shorn to make grooming a bit easier. Lhasa Apsos are a good choice for seniors because they are very loyal and affectionate with their people and need regular, moderate walks.

5. Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin is a small toy breed with a round head, wide-set eyes, floppy ears, and a short, flat nose. They grow a soft, silky coat and usually have a distinctive pattern across the face and spots along the body. They also have a tail that curls up over their back, with cascading fluff that waterfalls down. These beautiful dogs need a lot of grooming, but they won’t make it hard for you — they adore attention. Japanese Chins would do well with seniors as they are super smart and are sometimes compared to cats (they even like climbing). These pups enjoy learning new things, so training should be a breeze.

6. Basset Hound

The Basset Hound has very recognizable long, droopy ears and soulful eyes that will pierce your heart. Thankfully, they are not as sorrowful as they look and have very gentle personalities, making them a wonderful dog breed for seniors. They are patient with grandchildren and tend to get along well with other animals, including cats and other dogs. Basset Hounds have a strong sense of smell, and they need time to sniff as well as walk — it’s just part of who they are.

7. Maltese

The Maltese has a silky white coat that doesn’t shed much but still needs a fair amount of combing and care. Keeping them shorn is an option, but these dogs love sitting in humans’ laps, so regular grooming could be a bonding activity. They are very adaptable to different environments, including apartments, making them a good choice for seniors in small living spaces. They can be quite delicate under those luxurious coats, so make sure any grandchildren around know how to handle them properly (adults, too, for that matter). The Maltese takes very well to training and is eager to please.

8. Havanese

The Havanese is another friendly small lap-dog breed who is a wonderful choice for seniors. These dogs have big dark eyes and faces that will make you fall in love. Havanese are often trained as therapy pets because they adore human attention and are friendly, funny, and loving. They make great companions and hate being left alone, so if you want a little buddy by your side at all times, they’re the perfect choice.

9. Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound’s slender build, gracefulness, and gentle personality make them a great dog breed for seniors. This small and elegant breed is known for looking like a miniature Greyhound, and the breeds share many physical characteristics. Italian Greyhounds, however, are typically around 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between seven to 14 pounds. They tend to be devoted companions to their pet parents and can be quite sensitive. They have high energy levels and love to play, so active individuals who like the outdoors are probably the best match.

10. Pekingese

Pekingese can make great companions for senior citizens. They were once popular in the Chinese Imperial Court and still have a regal bearing. Their thick, luxurious coats require regular brushing and trims, but they’re accustomed to being handled and will bond closely with whoever their primary caretaker is. They are generally good-natured, calm, and affectionate and do not require a lot of exercise. 

11. Newfoundland

One of the best large dogs for seniors is the Newfoundland. These big strong dogs once worked alongside fishermen hauling heavy loads. While they can be energetic, especially as young pups, and need moderate exercise, they’re pretty laid back as adults. Their temperament is calm, and they have a gentle disposition making them a suitable choice for active seniors looking for a larger dog. These dogs naturally have very muscular builds under their thick, water-resistant coats; they look like adorable, huggable bears. Personality-wise, they are sweet-natured, gentle, and loyal. Newfoundland dogs love children, other pets, and playtime. They especially enjoy swimming and are better suited to cooler climates.

12. Chihuahua

These tiny Mexican toy dogs are adorably small, weighing in at just six pounds at their biggest. Their loyalty to their humans is unwavering, making Chihuahuas the perfect cuddle buddies for senior citizens. A little bit of training goes a long way in shaping their personalities.

What breed is the best for seniors?

While all of the above breeds can be great matches for seniors, senior rescue dogs are still probably the best companions for older people for the following reasons: 

They’re a better energy level match:

Senior dogs are often content to spend their days relaxing and cuddling with their pet parents, making them great companions for seniors who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle. They have already lived full lives and are more settled and calm than younger dogs.

They often already have some training:

Senior dogs may be less likely to exhibit destructive or challenging behaviors and may be better trained, including potty trained. They also may be better socialized than younger dogs. These attributes can make them easier to care for and better for seniors who may not have the time or energy to devote to training and socialization. 

Senior dogs can be a great source of emotional support for seniors, and adopting a senior rescue dog can be a deeply rewarding experience; providing a loving home to a dog in need can give people a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Breeds Seniors Should Avoid

High-energy dogs and dogs with high prey drives are not recommended for older people. Some breeds to avoid are the Border Collie, Jack Russell Terrier, Siberian Husky, Australian Shepherd, Cattle Dog, Weimaraner, Belgian Malinois

Why Puppies May Not Be a Good Choice for Seniors

In addition to high-energy dogs and dogs with high prey drives, puppies may not be the best match for seniors. Puppies are known for their boundless energy and need for frequent exercise and play, and they require a lot of attention and supervision. Seniors may not have the physical stamina to keep up with them (or may simply not want to). 

Puppies also need a lot of time and effort to train and socialize properly. For example, puppies need to be housebroken, taught basic commands, and exposed to a variety of new experiences and people. 

Puppies are also a longer-term commitment, and seniors may have concerns about what will happen to their dogs if they are unable to care for them in the future or worry about the financial and practical aspects of caring for a pet as they age. 

Of course, there are always exceptions to these generalizations, but it’s important to carefully consider lifestyle, energy levels, and long-term plans before committing to a new pet. Lower-energy breeds or senior dogs may be a better match for seniors who are looking for a companion.

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