Pet ownership is linked to improved well-being and reduced physical health deterioration in older adults. Studies have shown that having a furry friend provides social support, encourages regular exercise, and enhances emotional well-being. The best dog breeds for seniors are those that are low-energy and affectionate, making them well-suited for apartment living. However, the right dog depends on your owner's lifestyle, as some breeds require regular grooming while others need moderate daily exercise. Whether you prefer a tiny dog, a fluffy dog, or a purebred dog, find out which dog breed is best for you and your needs today!
20 best dog breeds for seniors
Low Maintenance and Apartment Friendly
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers are excellent for seniors due to their small size (12–13 inches tall) and moderate weight (13–18 pounds), making them easy to manage. They are known for their dogs' personality that thrives on companionship, making them great companions for older adults. They require moderate daily exercise, such as a daily walk, but are also content to be a quintessential lap dog. Their smooth coat requires regular brushing to avoid tangles, but they are typically easy to care for. Cavaliers adapt well to their owners' lifestyles, making them a wise choice if you live in an apartment. Although they are usually healthy, they may be susceptible to heart issues, making regular veterinary check-ups important.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a fluffy dog that’s ideal for seniors due to its cheerful and affectionate temperament. Weighing between 12 to 18 pounds, this small dog breed is easy to handle and adapts well to apartment living. Bichons are smart dogs that love spending time with their owners, making them excellent companions for older adults. They require routine exercise, such as short walks or indoor play, and their curly coat needs regular grooming to maintain its appearance. Many Bichon owners rely on grooming services to keep their pet looking its best. Bichons are typically healthy, but they may be susceptible to allergies and dental problems.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are small, sturdy dogs, weighing 16-28 pounds, and their low-energy nature makes them ideal for seniors. Frenchies are low-energy dogs that require minimal exercise, making them ideal for older adults with a less active lifestyle. A brief daily walk or some indoor play is enough to keep them content. Their short coat is easy to care for, needing only occasional brushing. French Bulldogs are ideal for apartment living and generally get along well with other pets. However, due to their flat faces, they can be prone to breathing problems, so it's important to keep an eye on their health.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is one of the best dog breeds for seniors, as they are known for being calm and affectionate. Weighing between 9 to 16 pounds, this tiny dog is easy to handle and adapts well to small spaces. Shih Tzus are known for their dogs' personalities that thrive on companionship, making them great companions for older adults. They require minimal exercise, such as short walks or indoor play, and their long, silky coat needs regular grooming to prevent tangles. Many owners opt for grooming services to maintain their pets’ appearance. Shih Tzus are typically healthy but susceptible to dental problems and eye conditions.
Maltese
Another great companion for seniors is the Maltese. Weighing under 7 pounds, this tiny dog is easy to manage and adapts well to apartment living. Maltese are known for their dogs' personality that thrives on companionship, making them great companions for older adults. They require minimal exercise, such as short walks or indoor play, and their long, silky coat needs regular grooming to maintain its appearance. Many pet owners turn to grooming services to maintain their pets' appearance. Maltese dogs are usually healthy but may be prone to dental problems and knee issues.
Pug
The Pug is a small dog breed perfect for seniors due to its affectionate and calm nature. Weighing between 14 and 18 pounds, this small dog is manageable and adjusts easily to apartment life. Pugs are known for their dog's personality that thrives on companionship, making them great companions for older adults. They need little exercise, like brief walks or indoor play, and their short coat is easy to care for, needing just occasional brushing. Pugs are typically healthy but may be vulnerable to breathing difficulties because of their flat faces.
Havanese
The Havanese is a fantastic option if you're looking for a small and playful dog. Weighing between 7 to 13 pounds, this tiny dog is easy to manage and adapts well to apartment living. Havanese are known for their dogs' personalities that thrive on companionship, making them great companions for older adults. They require minimal exercise, such as short walks or indoor play, and their long, silky coat needs regular grooming to maintain its appearance. Many pet owners depend on grooming services to ensure they stay in top condition. Havanese dogs are usually healthy but may be prone to dental problems and knee issues.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are small to medium-sized, weighing 12-25 pounds and standing 15-17 inches tall. They are friendly, smart, and easy to train, making them excellent companions for seniors. Boston Terriers need moderate exercise, like short walks or play sessions, and adjust well to apartment life. Their short coat is low-maintenance, but their brachycephalic structure requires care in hot weather. Their loving and energetic nature makes them a delight for seniors.
Pekingese
The Pekingese is a tiny dog breed that has long been cherished as a quintessential lap dog, making it one of the best dog breeds for seniors. Weighing 7-14 pounds, this small dog is perfect for small-space living and requires minimal space. Pekingese are low-energy dogs that require only short walks or indoor play for routine exercise. Their double coat needs regular brushing to avoid matting, but their gentle and loving temperament makes them excellent companions for seniors. While they may not be as energetic as younger dogs, their loyalty and gentle temperament make them ideal for seniors who want a furry friend to spend time with. Pekingese are also known for their independence, which suits seniors who prefer a low-maintenance dog that doesn’t demand constant attention.
Slightly Higher Maintenance
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a compact dog breed perfect for seniors because of its bright and loving personality. Weighing between 11 and 20 pounds, this tiny dog is easy to manage and adapts well to apartment living. Miniature Schnauzers are known for their strong desire for companionship, making them excellent companions for older adults. They require moderate daily exercise, such as a daily walk, and their wiry coat needs regular grooming to maintain its appearance. Many pet owners turn to grooming services to maintain their pets' appearance. Miniature Schnauzers are typically healthy, though they may be susceptible to diabetes and bladder stones. With their affectionate and adaptable temperament, they make an ideal companion for seniors looking for a low-maintenance dog that is both loving and loyal.
Papillon
Papillons are petite dogs, weighing 5-10 pounds, making them an excellent fit for seniors with limited living space. Renowned for their intelligence and loving personalities, they make excellent companions for older adults. Although small, they are moderately active and appreciate light daily exercise, like short walks or indoor play. Their silky coat needs regular grooming to stay healthy, but their minimal shedding makes them a low-maintenance option for seniors. Papillons are also highly trainable and adaptable to their owner's lifestyle, whether it’s a relaxed routine or occasional outings. Their playful yet gentle demeanor makes them one of the best dog breeds for seniors seeking a lively yet manageable furry friend.
Yorkshire Terrier
Another breed suitable for small spaces is the Yorkshire Terrier, commonly referred to as a Yorkie. Weighing just four to seven pounds and standing seven to eight inches tall, Yorkies are small, affectionate dogs known for their loyalty, making them excellent companions for older adults. Their silky coat needs regular grooming, but their minimal shedding makes them a favorite among pet owners who prefer low-maintenance pets. They are intelligent dogs and enjoy short walks or indoor play for routine exercise. Yorkies are also adaptable to their owners' lifestyle, whether it’s a relaxed routine or occasional outings. Their compact size and loving nature make them one of the top dog breeds for seniors looking for a loyal and easily portable companion. Their long lifespan also ensures they’ll be a companion for many years.
Pomeranian
Seniors will surely love Pomeranians for their lively and affectionate nature. Weighing between 3-7 pounds, this tiny dog is easy to handle and adapts well. Pomeranians are known for their dogs' personalities that thrive on companionship, making them great companions for older adults. They require minimal exercise, such as short walks or indoor play, and their double coat needs regular brushing to prevent tangles. Pomeranians are typically healthy, though they may be susceptible to dental issues and knee complications. Their affectionate and playful nature makes them a perfect dog for seniors seeking a loving and loyal, low-maintenance dog.
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is an excellent choice for seniors due to their gentle nature. Weighing between 20-30 pounds, this purebred dog is easy to manage and adapts well to apartment living. Cocker Spaniels are known for their dogs' personalities that thrive on companionship, making them great companions for older adults. They need moderate daily activity, like a daily walk, and their silky coat requires regular grooming to stay in good condition. Many pet owners use grooming services to keep their dogs looking their best. While generally healthy, Cocker Spaniels may be prone to ear infections and hip dysplasia.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are one of the best dogs for seniors due to their tiny size, weighing only 2-6 pounds, and their adaptability to small living spaces. These tiny dogs are perfect for apartment living and excel as classic lap dogs. Chihuahuas are loving and develop strong connections with their owners, making them excellent companions for seniors. While they are intelligent dogs, their exercise needs are minimal, requiring only short walks or indoor play. Their short or long coats are relatively low maintenance, though regular brushing is recommended for long-haired varieties. Chihuahuas are also known for their longevity, which aligns well with the needs of senior dogs and their owners. Their compact size and versatility make them an ideal choice for seniors looking for a loyal, easily portable companion.
More Exercise or Space Needed
Whippets
The Whippet is a medium-sized dog that’s well-suited for semi-active seniors. Weighing between 25-40 pounds, this breed is relatively easy to manage but requires more exercise than some other senior-friendly breeds. Whippets thrive on daily walks and enjoy occasional opportunities to run in a secure space, making them well-suited for homes with access to a yard or a nearby park. Their short coat requires minimal care, needing only occasional brushing. Although generally healthy, they may be prone to heart and joint problems, so regular veterinary check-ups are essential.
Greyhound
Despite their larger size, Greyhounds are surprisingly well-suited for seniors. Weighing between 60 and 70 pounds, they are known for their calm and gentle nature, often described as "couch potatoes." While they do need moderate daily exercise, such as a brisk walk or a short run in a safe space, their short coat is low-maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing. Greyhounds adapt well to apartment living but appreciate having space to stretch their legs. Although typically healthy, they may be susceptible to joint issues and dental issues.
Poodle (Toy or Miniature)
Toy and Miniature Poodles are small and intelligent dogs, but they do require more mental and physical stimulation than some other breeds. Weighing between 4 and 15 pounds, these dogs can thrive in apartments, but they need regular exercise, such as daily walks or interactive play, to stay happy and healthy. Their curly, hypoallergenic coat needs regular grooming to avoid matting, although they shed minimally. Poodles are highly adaptable and thrive on companionship, making them excellent for seniors who enjoy an active and engaging lifestyle. Although typically healthy, they may be prone to dental problems and joint issues.
Only for Very Active Seniors (Higher Maintenance & Energy)
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retrievers are the best dogs for seniors who are very active. Weighing between 55 to 80 pounds, Labs are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, but they require significant daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Activities like long walks, swimming, or playtime in a yard are essential to meet their energy needs. While their short coat is low-maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing, Labradors are prone to joint issues and obesity, so a balanced diet and regular exercise are crucial. Their affectionate and loyal personality makes them excellent companions, but they are better suited for seniors who can keep up with their active lifestyle and provide the space and time they need to thrive.
Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is another larger breed that’s ideal for very active seniors. Weighing between 55 and 75 pounds, Goldens are known for their friendly and gentle demeanor, but they have high energy levels and require regular exercise, such as long walks, hikes, or play sessions. Their beautiful double coat needs frequent brushing to prevent matting and shedding, making them higher maintenance in terms of grooming. Golden Retrievers are typically healthy, though they may be susceptible to joint issues and certain types of cancer, making regular veterinary check-ups essential. Their affectionate and loyal nature makes them great companions, but they are best suited for seniors who can commit to their exercise and grooming needs while maintaining an active lifestyle.
