Entering the golden years is a time to savor life’s simple pleasures—and few things bring as much daily joy as the loyal companionship of a dog.
For people over 60, having a furry friend by their side can brighten routines, encourage gentle activity, and create cherished moments of laughter and love. Dogs offer unwavering affection, and for many seniors, they become trusted confidants who add warmth to every day.
Beyond emotional comfort, the health benefits of sharing life with a dog are remarkable. Harvard Health notes that spending time with dogs can lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and increase serotonin levels, helping to uplift mood and promote well-being.
Walks, even if leisurely, can keep seniors active and socially connected, making dog ownership a fulfilling addition to their lifestyle.
The key is choosing a breed that matches this stage of life—one that’s calm, adaptable, and not overly demanding. From affectionate lap dogs to relaxed, low-maintenance companions, some breeds are especially suited to seniors.
Let’s explore the best dog breeds for people over 60 who are ready to embrace the joy of their golden years with a loyal four-legged friend by their side.
Best Dog Breeds For People Over 60 To Enjoy Golden Years
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, often simply called the “Cavalier,” is a small toy breed known for its affectionate nature and regal charm. AKC says Cavaliers combine the gentle attentiveness of a toy breed with the energy and athleticism of a sporting Spaniel.
With their long, silky coats, expressive eyes, and gentle demeanor, these dogs are adored companions who adapt easily to various lifestyles, especially those of retirees seeking calm companionship.
For people over 60, Cavaliers are ideal because they thrive on close bonds and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are content whether lounging at home or joining short strolls, making them well-suited for a slower-paced lifestyle.
Their naturally friendly temperament also makes them less stressful to manage in social settings. Unlike high-energy breeds, Cavaliers happily match their pet owners’ activity level.
They’ll enjoy light play sessions or brisk daily walks, but are just as happy curling up on a warm lap. This flexibility makes them easy companions without demanding intense exercise.
They are also notably patient and trainable, which is reassuring for older adults who may prefer a gentle, cooperative pet.
Fun fact: This breed was named after King Charles II, who was so fond of them that he reportedly let them accompany him everywhere, even during royal meetings.
2. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, sometimes called the “Chrysanthemum Dog,” is a toy breed originally bred as a royal companion in ancient China. PetMD says this breed has existed for centuries, though it wasn’t officially recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1969.
With their luxurious long coats, round eyes, and sweet expressions, they exude elegance in a small package. Their gentle demeanor and affectionate nature have made them beloved lapdogs for centuries.
For people over 60, Shih Tzus are a wonderful choice; thanks to their calm temperament and minimal exercise needs. A daily short walk and indoor play keep them content, making them ideal for seniors who prefer a relaxed pace without compromising on companionship.
They are also considered low-maintenance in terms of energy levels and adaptability. While their coats require regular brushing to prevent tangles, they shed very little and thrive in cozy indoor environments—perfect for apartment living or smaller homes.
These friendly little dogs adore being near their humans, providing emotional comfort and reducing stress.
3. Maltese
The Maltese, also called the “Melitae Dog,” is a tiny toy breed originating from the island of Malta and is one of the oldest European companion breeds. Renowned for its long, silky white coat and expressive dark eyes, this breed has an elegant yet approachable charm.
WebMD says Maltese dogs are a small breed with a playful and charming personality. Their playful yet gentle demeanor makes them perfect for relaxed households, especially for older adults seeking a loving, manageable companion.
What makes the Maltese ideal for people over 60 is its minimal exercise needs. A couple of short walks and light play are enough to keep them content, which suits a slower-paced lifestyle. They adore lounging on laps and being close to their owners, offering constant companionship without being demanding.
Their small size makes daily care stress-free. Weighing just a few pounds, they are easy to handle and carry, reducing strain for seniors. While their coat requires brushing, they shed very little and can be kept in a low-maintenance clipped style.
Beyond their charm, Maltese dogs are quick learners and eager to please, responding well to gentle training. Their affectionate and intuitive nature even makes them popular therapy dogs for providing comfort and emotional support.
Fun Fact: The Maltese is believed to be the oldest toy breed from Europe, tracing back to ancient Malta.
4. Pug
The Pug, often referred to as the “clown of dogdom,” is a small yet sturdy toy breed celebrated for its playful charm and affectionate nature. With their signature wrinkled face, big round eyes, and curly tail, Pugs bring endless delight while asking for little in return.
They are low-energy companions who prefer lounging and short play sessions over vigorous activities, making them a great fit for seniors.
Pugs excel as gentle breeds for loyal company because of their deeply affectionate temperament. They thrive on human attention and form strong bonds with their owners, often shadowing them from room to room. This devotion ensures older adults always feel loved and accompanied.
Their easy grooming routine further suits retirees. These loyal dogs have short coats that need minimal brushing, though their adorable facial folds require occasional cleaning to prevent irritation. This simplicity makes caring for them far less demanding than higher-maintenance breeds.
Because of their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure, Pugs are best kept in cool, comfortable environments and should avoid strenuous outdoor activities. A couple of brief strolls or light indoor play are enough to keep them content.
Fun Fact: A group of Pugs is called a “grumble,” likely inspired by their signature snorting sounds.
5. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise, also called the Tenerife Dog or Bichon à poil frisé, is a small toy breed known for its cloud-like white coat and cheerful demeanor.
Originally popular with European nobility, this affectionate companion has long been admired for its charm, adaptability, and playful nature. Their round dark eyes and powder-puff appearance make them especially endearing to many.
For people over 60, the Bichon Frise is a wonderful fit because it adapts seamlessly to slower-paced lifestyles.
These dogs thrive on companionship and are happiest when spending quiet time with their owners, whether that’s relaxing on the couch or taking a short stroll through the neighborhood. They’re naturally sociable yet not demanding, making them easygoing companions.
Their small size and minimal shedding also mean they’re easy to groom and handle, which is ideal for seniors who may want a low-maintenance yet delightful pet. Regular brushing keeps their coat tangle-free without the hassle of constant clean-up.
Gentle, lively, and eager to please, Bichons excel in bringing joy and emotional comfort to their owners. They are known to get along well with visitors and other pets, ensuring seniors enjoy both company and calm.
6. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog, often affectionately called the “Frenchie,” is a small, compact companion dog known for its signature bat-like ears, muscular frame, and cheerful nature.
Originally bred in France as a lapdog for lace workers, this breed has since become a beloved urban companion thanks to its easygoing personality and minimal grooming needs.
For people over 60, French Bulldogs are perfect walking partners because they prefer short strolls over strenuous exercise. Their moderate energy levels mean they won’t demand long daily hikes, making it easier for seniors to enjoy bonding time without feeling exhausted.
A few relaxed walks around the neighborhood or to the local café are usually enough to keep them content.
Frenchies also thrive on companionship and love tagging along for errands or visits, turning simple outings into cherished routines. Their affectionate and humorous nature makes them wonderful emotional support for older adults, brightening even the quietest days.
Another benefit is their low-maintenance coat, which requires only occasional brushing. Seniors can easily manage their grooming needs while enjoying their playful antics and loyal presence.
Fun Fact: Twentieth-century American breeders gave French Bulldogs their iconic upright “bat ears,” which replaced the older rose-shaped ear style.
7. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer, sometimes affectionately called the “Mini Schnau,” is a small yet spirited member of the terrier group.
With their wiry double coat, bushy eyebrows, and iconic beard, these charming dogs are as stylish as they are affectionate. Known for their compact size and long lifespan, they make ideal companions for those looking for a loyal friend through their golden years.
Miniature Schnauzers possess a naturally cheerful and lively temperament that fits well in a quiet retirement lifestyle. They’re attentive without being overly demanding, and their medium energy level makes daily strolls enjoyable without becoming overwhelming.
Their social, people-oriented nature helps prevent loneliness, a key benefit for older adults. They enjoy spending time with their owners yet remain calm indoors, making them ideal for relaxed living environments. They also handle visiting grandchildren well, thanks to their patient disposition.
Low-shedding and hypoallergenic, Miniature Schnauzers require only moderate grooming, which is manageable for older pet parents. Their eagerness to please and quick learning ability mean training them is usually straightforward, especially with positive reinforcement.
Fun Fact: The Miniature Schnauzer’s distinctive beard was originally meant to shield them from bites when catching rodents on farms.
Conclusion
Finding the best dogs for seniors means balancing companionship, care needs, and temperament—and the breeds discussed show just how rewarding that choice can be. Many of these affectionate dogs thrive on human connection, making them ideal for providing comfort and joy during the golden years.
While small dogs are often easier to manage, some medium-sized dogs also fit beautifully into quieter homes, especially when they are calm yet alert dogs who can sense their owner’s routines.
It’s also worth noting that most dogs benefit from regular grooming or even occasional professional grooming, ensuring their coats and skin remain healthy as they age.
Even senior dogs can enjoy gentle play and daily walks, while naturally intelligent dogs—whether a classic herding dog or a spirited yet calm breed—keep their minds sharp with light training.
While not all breeds need the energy of the fastest dog breed, choosing a loyal companion can bring seniors unmatched happiness.
