Top 10 Best Dogs for Seniors

by Mary Simpson

Published: March 15th, 2021

Pets make perfect companions for aging people. If you’re looking for a pooch to spend your golden years with, here are the best dogs for seniors.

In addition to lowering your stress level, blood pressure and heart rate, pets are a tremendous source of companionship and dogs in particular are a great source of socialization. Did you ever walk a dog and not get into a conversation with someone? That’s super rare. From health benefits to a bigger social circle, there are plenty of merits of being a pet owner. For seniors, fur kids provide a sense of purpose, a source of exercise and they can be a great addition to an empty nest that’s beginning to feel a little lonely. Nothing can brighten your day like a wagging tail of a pooch that follows you wherever you go! A four legged friend can make you look forward to the future days once more.

However, when it comes to becoming a dog owner in your senior years, there are some important factors to consider before choosing your four legged companion. In your golden years, you want a pet that will enjoy your lifestyle the same way you do, and that will fit in perfectly with your pace and routine, maybe even improve some parts of it. But, with the amounting difficulties that naturally come with old age, you would want to consider easy-going, low maintenance dog breeds that don’t require too much exertion or have needs you would have difficulty meeting.

So, to make sure you and your new furry friend will be the right match, choose one of the senior-friendly dog breeds- or, find an adorable rescue mutt that fits all senior-friendly dog criteria to share your home and heart with. Either way, we’ve got you covered with the list of top 10 dog breeds for seniors and a short guide on important factors to consider when choosing a dog for someone older.

(Photo credit: McIninch/Bigstock)

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

For active seniors who love a long walk, the Corgi is a great bet. His compact size and a strong willed personality make him a great companion dog who is up for activity but not hyper. Corgis are quite goofy and natural born entertainers. They are also quite adjustable – they will be fine with both walks and playtime, but also with some snoozing and relaxation. Short legs and a long back make his ideal home environment one without a lot of stairs. Hey, you already have something in common! (Photo credit: Grisha Bruev/Bigstock)

French Bulldog

Another great walking companion is the Frenchie. This solid little pooch is happy just to hang with you all day long and because he’s active but not super athletic, he’ll never tire you out with the need for lengthy walks. French Bulldogs don’t like a lot of running about. A few minutes of zooming all over the place and then it’s back to snoozing and napping. They are generally low maintenance in every aspect, making them easy to take care of. He loves to snuggle into a welcoming lap and because he’s such a low shedder, a lint brush is all you need. Warning, he does snore! (Photo credit: Eduard Vivsik/Bigstock)

Goldendoodle

This cross between a Golden Labrador and a Poodle is great for seniors with mobility issues that might cause them to worry about a smaller dog getting underfoot. Taking the best traits from both breeds, these dogs are ideal pets for anyone – not just seniors. This gentle natured pooch is often used as a therapy dog and is not high maintenance when it comes to exercise. His low shedding nature makes him an easy boy to clean up after. Their lovely looks might require a few trims here and there, but that shouldn’t be an issue. (Photo credit: SusanFeldberg/Bigstock)

West Highland White Terrier

The smart little Westie is considered to be the calm version of a terrier and he’s a perfect fit for apartments or smaller living accommodations. This pooch thrives on human interaction and wants to be with you at all times. Quite intelligent, a Westie can easily understand what is needed or wanted – they will get used to your daily routine with ease. His sturdy, compact size means he is not likely to be knocking anyone over and his moderate exercise needs make him ideal for those less active. Also, their dietary and grooming needs are also basic and not demanding, making them great as pets for seniors. (Photo credit: Ian Dikhtiar/Bigstock)

Bichon Frise

This mini pooch has a sweetheart of a personality and his playful antics can entertain for hours. He adores his human companions and loves his role as a lap dog. Because of his gentle nature he is often used as a therapy dog and while this social little guy loves to get out and show off his personality, a daily walk is all he really needs. Snoozing, goofing off, or walking with that classic bichon elegance – everything goes with these puppers. So, whatever you like or can do – so will your Bichon Frise. (Photo credit: Ian Dikhtiar/Bigstock)

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This little dog with the big name adores being with his people and is naturally well behaved. Their graceful and cute looks are a definite eye catcher in the pet world, and can certainly bring up plenty of conversation along daily walks. He makes our list of best dogs for seniors because he can suffer from separation anxiety and needs a family who will be home for him. This breed craves affection and a loving relationship, and will love to be around you at all times. This active pooch needs a good daily walk but because of his good manners and small size, he doesn’t tug or pull which makes for an easy walk. This Spaniel breed has a loving and easy-going personality – an ideal match for people in their golden years. (Photo credit: otsphoto/Bigstock)

Greyhound

Surprise! These gentle retired athletes are ideal for seniors. They are well trained, have a mild sensitive manner and prefer a quiet environment – no, they don’t bark either. And in spite of their racing spirit, they’re cool with just getting out for a daily walk; remember, they don’t run marathons, they sprint, so long, drawn out hikes aren’t their thing. So no worries if you’re not up to strenuous activities- your Greyhound will be perfectly content with walks around the neighborhood. (Photo credit: Angled End/Bigstock)

Miniature Poodle

This super intelligent dog with the distinctive appearance and playful personality is ideal for the older owner. He considers himself an important part of the family and just loves to spend his day with his human companion. A highly trainable breed, this little guy adores continual interaction and being pampered by someone with the time to spend on him. They will always be around and looking to join your daily activities. Besides, their elegant looks will earn a nice comment at the dog park all the time. (Photo credit: hin255/Bigstock)

Miniature Schnauzer

This spunky little pooch is a well mannered, playful breed that adores human companionship and being the center of attention. One of the most loving and goofy breeds out there, the Miniature Schnauzer can really bring a dose of fun into your senior days. His passion for cuddling and belly rubs makes him a great option for a senior looking for someone to love. He is a minimal shedder and a couple of short walks a day are enough to keep this little guy fit and trim. Minimum hassle – maximum love. An ideal combo. (Photo credit: Elen33/Bigstock)

Maltese

Finishing off the best dogs for seniors, this small breed is incredibly attentive to his pet parent and in spite of his tiny frame; he’s a pretty sturdy pooch. He’s highly affectionate and easy to maintain; shedding minimally. While he loves to be busy, his small stature means he is satisfied with brief, 10-15 minute daily walks followed by interactive play. And then, it’s all about that well deserved snoozing around the home. (Photo credit: kimrawicz/Bigstock)

What Traits to Look for In Dogs for Seniors?

Each dog is unique, and as a result, not every canine finds a perfect match in his human owner, so it’s important to think through before adopting a dog. While you might be a dog lover your whole life, that doesn’t mean that the same type of pooches will be a fit for your needs as the years pass. When it comes to choosing a dog that will fit a senior person’s lifestyle, here are the most important factors to consider:

Activity demands

Unless the senior in question is still very active and an outdoorsy person, having a high energy dog could be too much of a challenge. Laid back pooches that do well with a few short walks a day and don’t need hikes or hours of playing fetch to burn off energy are a much better fit. Incidentally, these are usually either older dogs or smaller dogs, but more on that below. Some of the more adjustable breeds would be content with any situation. A short walk and a long day of lounging about is a good activity ratio that fits both parties involved!

Personality compatibility

You should choose your four legged friend the same as you choose any friend – their personality must be a match for yours. If a shy, introverted senior gets a mischievous and hyper pooch, it’s highly likely that they won’t hit it off, so to speak. Make sure that not only the dog you pick has a nice personality overall, but that his quirks and temperament are also a fit for your own. If you find that your senior days are a bit challenging, get yourself a loving and low action pooch: you’ll love snoozing together.

Grooming requirements

Size and age

It’s not the same if your new roommate needs just a quick brushing a few times a week, or if his beauty regime includes regular baths, trims, or visits to a professional dog grooming salon. Before you commit, make sure that you can keep up with your new pet’s grooming demands. Elegant pets with long coats and plenty of need for grooming are rarely a good choice for seniors: their coat can grow surprisingly fast and require plenty of attention (e.g. frequent visits to the groomer’s) that you cannot always offer.

Mary Simpson

Sharing space with three seriously judgy Schnoodles and a feline who prefers to be left alone. #LivingMyBestLife

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Bedlington Terrier: The Bedlington Terrier is known for its wooly coat and sheep-like appearance. These dogs have a gentle nature, making them an excellent choice for families. They can be energetic and playful with children but are typically not rambunctious, it all depends on their circumstance. This breed is often born with a dark coat that fades to a blue-gray or sandy color with age. Their fur is thicker on their legs and the top of their heads, but he generally does not shed much. Regular grooming is required to keep the coat in its proper form and to prevent matting of the curly hair. Friendly and lovable with minimal shedding?! What more could a dog lover who suffers from allergies possibly want? 3. Schnauzer: The Schnauzer is a handsome-looking breed that comes in three sizes: miniature, standard and giant. These dogs have long fur on their face, which forms a sort of beard, as well as a wiry double coat on the rest of the body. The coat of this breed sheds little and, unless you are grooming your dog for show, is fairly easy to care for. Show dogs may require hand-stripping of the coat, while the average pet owner may only need to clip the coat for the dog’s comfort. This breed is smart and cheerful, generally making a good family pet. It will melt your heart without tickling your nose, making it a strong option for anyone who wants a dog in their life, despite their allergies. 4. Bichon Frise: The Bichon Frise is a descendant of the Water Spaniel and it is known for its fluffy double coat and cheerful personality. These little dogs are typically white in color, though cream or buff shading is permitted. Bichon Frise dogs have hair that grows continuously (which is what gives it its iconic cotton ball appearance), but they do not shed significantly. Due to the continuous growing of the fur, however, regular grooming is required to prevent mats. So while there is a little extra upkeep involved, allergy sufferers should find themselves living a sneeze and sniffle free life with their Bichon Frise. 5. Maltese: The Maltese is known for its long, silky coat and large, dark eyes. These little dogs are intelligent and, despite their regal appearance, can actually be quite lively and playful. This breed is typically kept as a companion pet due to its portability and affectionate nature. They make wonderful family pets due to their immensely lovable nature. The Maltese does not shed significantly, although his long coat should be groomed often to prevent mats from forming. The good news is that long coat doesn’t let off much dander either, making them a strong choice for dog owners with allergies. 6. Affenpinscher: The Affenpinscher is yet another great option for anyone who suffers with allergies but refuse to let that stop them from having a dog in the family. These adorable little canines feature a coat that is wiry. That means that shedding is minimal and grooming is a breeze. Overall, you can expect an Affenpinscher to be easy-going, adaptable, and bold. Proper training will help ensure that your pooch will be social and friendly towards everyone that he meets. These dogs will get along well with other pets, including other dogs (especially if they are raised around other animals from puppyhood). As curious as they are stubborn, Affenpinschers are playful, smart, and confident companions. They can be loads of fun and rarely cause allergies to flare up. 7. Hairless Chinese Crested: There are actually two types of Chinese Crested pooches, one of which is the Hairless. This is a great choice for individuals with allergies because if the dog has less hair, there will be less shedding, and less risk of allergic reactions. Obvious, but true. These pups offer relief for those who have a hard time being around other dogs. 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You might think your dog feels fine in cold weather, thanks to their thick coat, but they can definitely feel the chill—and when they aren’t warm and comfortable, they could develop serious problems like hypothermia. So, it’s important to know the signs that your dog is cold, and to take steps to keep your pet comfy, whether they’re indoors or outside.  Although any dog can be affected by cold temperatures, wind, and snow, some are going to feel the drop in temperature sooner or more intensely. Puppies and seniors, as well as small dogs and those with short coats, are a few examples, along with hairless dogs and those who are ill or have chronic medical conditions.Signs Your Dog Is ColdHere are some of the ways to tell if your dog is cold:Your dog feels cold to the touch – An easy way to tell if your dog is cold is by petting them and feeling the temperature of their body. A good place to check is their ears, but also touch their paws, belly, and skin under their fur. If their body is cool to the touch, there are ways to warm them up.Your dog doesn’t want to be active – If your dog isn’t as active as they usually are, they might be feeling the chill in the air. Feel their body, as discussed above, to see if they’re cold, and take steps to make them warm. A dog who’s moving more slowly than normal while outside should be brought inside right away. Your dog is shivering – Just like people shiver when they’re cold, dogs will too, so this is an obvious sign that your pet needs to be warmed up as soon as possible. If your dog is trembling, consider the temperature inside your home, as you might need to turn the heat up. And if your dog is shaking while outside in the cold, bring them inside right away.Your dog is searching for ways to stay warm – If your dog wants to lie down next to the fireplace or heater, or they want to snuggle up next to you or under a blanket, they’re looking for ways to get warm. In addition, your dog might be reluctant to go outside, whether for a walk or to go potty. If they’re outside and you see them trying to find some shelter to warm up, bring them in immediately.  Your dog’s body language and vocalizations change – If you know your pet’s normal behavior and demeanor, it should be easy to tell when they’re cold. There will be signs that they’re uncomfortable, and they might exhibit anxious behaviors that let you know something is wrong. For example, your dog may tuck their tail, have a hunched posture, or curl up in a ball, and they might also bark or whimper. What To Do if Your Dog Is ColdWhenever your dog is showing signs of feeling cold, take action right away. Remember, a dog who gets too cold is at risk of hypothermia. Also, the cold can make some dogs, such as those with arthritis, experience even more discomfort. If your dog is outside, bring them inside. And if they’re wet from rain or snow, dry them gently.If your dog is already inside, move them to a warmer area, such as near a heat source and away from drafts.Help your dog feel warm and cozy indoorsYou can rub and massage your dog to help generate some warmth with your hands. Give your pet a cozy bed to rest in, and cover them with a blanket. You can also lie down next to your dog to help them warm up.There are heated dog beds you can use whenever your dog is chilly, along with dog heating pads that can work well too—just be sure to use these products as directed for safety and so your pet won’t get too hot. Keep your dog warm while outsideBefore heading outside with your dog, check the temperature. Generally, if it’s colder than 45°F (7°C), you should take additional precautions to ensure your pet won’t get too cold. But you know your individual dog best, so you’ll know when they need extra protection and less time outside.There are various jackets, sweaters, and boots made for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Put these on your canine companion before heading outside so they can stay warm while they go potty or go for a short walk.If it’s too cold for a walk or play session outside, don’t force your dog to stay out there. Instead, find ways to play with your dog indoors until the weather warms enough to be safer and more comfortable for your pooch.Use products that help your dog warm up and stay warmHere are a couple of items to consider buying for your dog: K&H Self-Warming Crate Pad

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Should My Dog Wear a Winter Coat?

As the temperatures drop and winter approaches, many pet parents face a common question: Should my dog wear a winter coat? It’s a valid question! After all, we bundle up before heading out into the ice and snow. Why shouldn’t our dogs? This article will explore the considerations, benefits, and potential downsides of winter coats for dogs. Plus, we’ll share the coats we use to keep our pups warm and cozy. Let’s get started… Do All Dogs Need a Coat in Winter? The short answer is no. Not all dogs need a winter coat to stay comfortable in the colder temperatures. In fact, some dogs will be more comfortable without a winter coat. That leaves us with one more question – how do you know if your dog will need a coat this season? Here are a few factors to consider: Breed & Coat LengthWhat breed or breed mix is your dog? Some dogs, like the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, and Keeshond, were specifically bred to handle the colder temperatures. These dogs have thick double coats, including a water-resistant guard coat and a plush, warm undercoat. If you own one of these dogs, you may see them relaxing outside, happily napping in a snowbank. They thrive in cooler weather but struggle when the temperatures climb. On the other end of the spectrum, some dogs were bred to live in warmer climates. These dogs have short coats, offering little protection from the winter cold. Age Your dog’s age could make them more sensitive to changes in temperature, both heat and cold. If you have a young puppy or a senior dog, they may need a little extra care and attention. Not only do they feel cold faster, but the low temperatures could worsen the discomfort of a senior dog’s arthritis or other joint problems. Even if your dog once thrived in cold temperatures, they may struggle in their older years.Disease or Illness If your dog is currently living with a disease or illness, it can compromise their ability to regulate their body temperature effectively. Your dog’s condition can impact many aspects of their well-being. It may weaken their immune system, causing dehydration or interfering with proper circulation. Contact your veterinarian if you’re unsure whether your dog’s illness could impact their ability to handle the cold. Activity LevelAre you heading outside to hang out in your yard, or are you planning to engage in something more active like a hike or skijoring? As your dog’s muscles are engaged and working, they are producing heat that raises the body temperature. If your dog occasionally needs a light jacket, they may not need one during heavy activity. On the other hand, if your dog is usually okay when you’re going for a walk, they may need a light jacket or sweater if they are going to be standing around.

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Is a Cat Tree Necessary for My Cat?

When you first bring home a new cat, it’s an exciting time – especially if you’re a first-time cat parent. However, amidst the excitement, there are many questions that may be holding you back from fully embracing the joy. Are you prepared to meet all your cat’s needs? Are there “must-have” items you have overlooked? The struggle is real! We have good news… Many of the items that are deemed “necessary” are actually optional. One such item is the traditional cat tree or cat scratcher. Do they offer benefits? Yes! Can they help to improve your cat’s mental and physical health? Yes! But is a cat tree necessary for your cat? No, it’s not. There are other ways you can meet your cat’s needs if your budget or space doesn’t allow for a large piece of cat furniture. Let’s dig into the truth about cat trees and your cat. What is the Point of Cat Trees? If you’re currently standing in your local pet store, looking over the wide assortment of cat furniture available, you may wonder – what exactly is the purpose of cat furniture? Is it just a fancy bed solution for your cat, or are there other considerations when these products are developed? It’s an honest question I often hear from first-time cat parents. After all, these large, elaborate structures often come with a hefty price tag. If they do nothing more than provide a place to sleep, wouldn’t a simple cat bed suffice? Cat furniture is designed to meet many of your cat’s instincts, including their need to scratch, hide, climb, and oversee their surroundings. Each type of cat furniture has its benefits to consider.

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28-pound Cat Named 'One Frosty Too Many' Finds a Forever Home

A morbidly obese cat found wandering the streets in Virginia has found a forever home after Richmond Animal Care and Control shelter posted a funny adoption ad on their Facebook page.Tipping the scales at 28.5 pounds the shelter named the chubby feline ‘One Frosty Too Many’ or Frosty for short, after Wendy’s frozen treats. “You know we love a cat with a belly, and lord almighty this one has the best belly in town. Meet One Frosty Too Many,” wrote the shelter on its Facebook page. The shelter described the cat as 28.5 pounds of pudge with a side of crankiness. “As long as you let him do what he wants when he wants, everything is fine; still we recommend you proceed with caution.”The person who brought Frosty to the shelter said he found the chubby cat roaming the streets of Richmond, shared shelter director Christie Peters. The cat was morbidly obese but was otherwise in good general health. “We put him on a strict low-calorie diet and he wasn’t too happy about that,” said Peters, estimating that Frosty is about two years old. “Because he was cranky, we kept telling him he’ll feel a lot better when he loses weight.”Frosty’s adoption ad garnered a lot of attention, and many were interested in adopting the chubby tabby. However, one woman beat everyone to it and took Frosty home. Maggie Thompson, her husband, and two sons were on the way home to Stafford when she saw the Facebook post about Frosty. “I thought, ‘Oh, I want that cat,’” said Thomson, who owns a pet-sitting business, according to The Washington Post. She persuaded her husband, Mike, to stop in Richmond so they could visit the shelter and ask about adopting Frosty.As soon as she met Frosty, she knew that she couldn’t go home without him. “He got on my lap and started purring,” said Maggie. “With animals, they pick you. You just know when it’s right, and they do, too.”Thomson’s sons, Mickey and Andy, were ecstatic they’d be taking home a chubby cat. The family already has two cats, Rose and Wolfie, which are around one year old. “They are under seven pounds each - less than 14 pounds together,” said Thompson. “But I had a feeling they’d all get along just fine and become friends.”After Thompson filled out adoption papers, the shelter staff explained to her that Frosty would need to follow a strict diet and eat low-calorie cat food twice a day until he’d dropped half his body weight. The shelter didn’t have a large enough carrier for Frosty, so they placed him in a dog crate. “We put him in the back of the car, and he didn’t protest at all. He was a good rider and was pretty quiet the whole trip,” said Thomson. When they arrived home, Thomson placed the family’s newest addition into a spare room for a few days to gradually introduce him to their other two cats.Thomson decided that their new cat deserves a new name, one that won’t be associated with desserts. “We’ve decided to call him Gus. That’s what he looks like to me. I now call him Gussie, and he responds well to that.”Gus has adjusted nicely to his new home and loves lounging on the bottom level of a cat tree. Thomson plans to start a weight-loss journey page for Gus on Facebook to track his progress.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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