Table of Contents:

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
2. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
3. Pug
4. Bichon Frise
5. French Bulldog
6. Shih Tzu
7. Greyhound

Earning the title of “Man’s Best Friend” is no easy feat. Dogs are known for bringing joy and companionship to our lives, regardless of our age. So, if you’re a senior thinking about getting a dog, know that the perfect match is out there for you!

Things Seniors Should Consider When Choosing a Dog

Once you’ve decided to get a dog, there are a few things you need to consider before committing to a breed.

• Reflect on your activity and energy level. Whether you’re fairly active, enjoy a casual walk, or have mobility or stamina issues, different breeds can match your pace.
• You need to be mindful of your living space. Smaller dogs require less physical space, while larger dogs will inevitably need additional space. With size, there’s also the feature of controllability to consider. Will you be able to physically care for the dog and perform tasks like lift them and walk them with ease?
• Age is another factor to consider. Think about whether you’re looking to adopt a puppy or an older dog, as well as life expectancy.
• Temperament is influenced by a dog’s upbringing, but also depends on genetics. Some breeds are acknowledged as more gentle and welcoming than others.
• The breed of dog will impact the frequency that they’ll need to receive baths, trimmings, clippings, and brushings.

Don’t be overwhelmed by all these considerations. If you’re a senior looking to adopt a dog, or a family member helping choose a dog for your senior relative, we have all the information you need right here! Keep reading for the top 7 breeds for seniors, and key information about each.

The Best Dog Breeds for Seniors

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for sporting athleticism, paired with an even temper. Cavaliers are identified by their large, round eyes and silky, colored coat. Their calm presence allows them to get along with both children and other dogs. They’re also praised for their adaptability, which allows them to thrive regardless of their guardian’s lifestyle, active or not.

Size & Breed Group:

• Height: 12 – 13 inches
• Weight: 13 – 18 pounds
• Toy Group

Lifespan:

• 12 – 15 years

Temperament:

• Affectionate
• Gentle
• Graceful

Energy Level:

• Moderate Energy

Grooming Requirements:

• Minimal Shedding
• Monthly Coat Grooming
• Minimal Drooling

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are well-known for their strong, athletic, and lively nature. Despite their short legs, Pembrokes are quick and agile. They also have an affectionate side that results in close bonds with their human family, and an eagerness to please while training. Due to cattle herding genetics, Pembrokes can be fearless, making them vigilant watchdogs and giving them a larger bark than one would expect from such a small package.

Size & Breed Group:

• Height: 10 – 12 inches
• Weight: up to 30 pounds
• Herding Group

Lifespan:

• 12 – 13 years

Temperament:

• Affectionate
• Smart
• Alert

Energy Level:

• High Energy

Grooming Requirements:

• Frequent Shedding
• Monthly Coat Grooming
• Minimal Drooling

Pug

Thanks to their large facial features (head, eyes, and eyebrows), Pugs can easily share their emotions with humans, which is a delight in itself. With such a big heart, they make a great companion for families and individuals of any age, regardless of city or country living and lifestyle. They also thrive as an individual pet or a member of a larger furry pack. Don’t be tricked by their muscular nature though, they love to eat, and sometimes need structure to stay in shape!

Size & Breed Group:

• Height: 10 – 13 inches
• Weight: 14 – 18 pounds
• Toy Group

Lifespan:

• 13 – 15 years

Temperament:

• Charming
• Loving
• Mischievous

Energy Level:

• High Energy

Grooming Requirements:

• Frequent Shedding
• Monthly Coat Grooming
• Moderate Drooling

Bichon Frise

With their happy-go-lucky personalities, Bichons Frises are highly adaptable dogs that get along well with children and other animals. They enjoy pleasing and performing for their humans, making training a joy. Another adorable quality of this breed is their hypoallergenic coat, allowing all your family and friends to love them without worry. Bichons are little watchdogs, due to their alert and curious ways, but seek to greet those who approach with kindness. This confidence makes Bichons ideal for city living, where they’ll come into contact with lots of people.

Size & Breed Group:

• Height: 9.5 – 11.5 inches
• Weight: 12 – 18 pounds
• Non-Sporting Group

Lifespan:

• 14 – 15 years

Temperament:

• Playful
• Curious
• Peppy

Energy Level:

• High Energy

Grooming Requirements:

• No Shedding
• Daily Coat Grooming
• Minimal Drooling

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs charm everyone they meet with their affectionate disposition. They don’t require a lot of outdoor exercise, making them a great dog for apartment, condo, or care facility living. They’re also ideal for people with mobility difficulties. Despite being alert dogs, French Bulldogs are not known to bark much.

Size & Breed Group:

• Height: 11 – 13 inches
• Weight: under 28 pounds
• Non-Sporting Group

Lifespan:

• 10 – 12 years

Temperament:

• Playful
• Smart
• Adaptable

Energy Level:

• Moderate Energy

Grooming Requirements:

• Moderate Shedding
• Monthly Coat Grooming
• Moderate Drooling

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu are extremely loving towards their human counterparts. They’ve also been known to be extra affectionate with children, making them a great choice for seniors with grandchildren. Thanks to their petite build, Shih Tzu generally prefer indoor activity to outdoor. This makes them a great breed for individuals who struggle with mobility or do not have a yard.

Size & Breed Group:

• Height: 9 – 10.5 inches
• Weight: 9 – 16 pounds
• Toy Group

Lifespan:

• 10 – 18 years

Temperament:

• Playful
• Affectionate
• Outgoing

Energy Level:

• Moderate Energy

Grooming Requirements:

• No Shedding
• Weekly Coat Grooming
• Minimal Drooling

Greyhound

Greyhounds are larger dogs, with long legs and lean figures. Although Greyhounds are known to be pleasant and gentle-natured dogs, due to being independent in spirit, they’d best be suited as the only pet in a household. Their well-mannered and sweet temperament makes them an introvert’s ideal companion.

Size & Breed Group:

• Height: 27 – 30 inches
• Weight: 60 – 70 pounds
• Hound Group

Lifespan:

• 10 – 13 years

Temperament:

• Independent
• Gentle
• Noble

Energy Level:

• Moderate Energy

Grooming Requirements:

• Minimal Shedding
• Monthly Coat Grooming
• Minimal Drooling

The Perfect Breed for You Is Out There

We hope you found this article helpful, and we wish you all the best in finding a dog breed that matches your needs and circumstances. When it comes to fulfilling your dreams of companionship, age shouldn’t be a barrier. And by taking into account the unique features of various breeds, you can match your senior lifestyle with the best dog for you.