Adding a dog to your family during retirement can be one of the most rewarding experiences. From wagging tails to cozy cuddles, a furry friend brings plenty of love and companionship. Whether you’re a senior looking for a loyal companion or helping a loved one choose, it’s important to find a breed that matches lifestyle and activity levels.
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the joy of dog ownership. Some may think dogs only belong in big houses with yards, but many outgoing breeds thrive just as well in smaller spaces. Quiet, social, and these best dog breeds make perfect neighbors in apartment living—so you can enjoy your golden years with peace of mind.
Beyond companionship, dogs also bring proven health benefits for seniors. According to Harvard Health Publishing, spending time with a pup can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and raise serotonin—the “feel-good” chemical in the brain. With seniors often having more time at home, other dogs also enjoy extra love and attention.
Dog Breeds for Senior Citizens in Apartments That Don’t Shed
We’ve compiled a list of the best dog breeds that are loyal, small dogs that are easy to handle and won’t leave a trail of hair throughout your apartment.
1. Poodle
Historical Background
Although often associated with France, the Poodle’s roots trace back over 400 years to Germany, as per Britannica. Originally bred as water retrievers, their name comes from “pudelin,” meaning splashing in water. Over time, their elegance and intelligence won favor among European nobles and entertainers
Suitability for Apartment Living
Poodles adjust well to apartment life as long as they receive regular exercise. A brisk daily walk or indoor play is usually enough to keep them happy. They are also known for being quiet, which helps maintain a peaceful environment with neighbors.
Personality and Temperament
Despite their elegant looks, Poodles are lively, clever, and the smartest dog breed. They thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy being involved in daily activities. Their playful yet gentle nature makes them a great fit for senior citizens.
Why Seniors Love Them
Hypoallergenic, low-shedding dog hair is perfect for apartments
Quick learners, easy to train, and eager to please
Adaptable to both active and relaxed lifestyles
Friendly, social, and great companions for daily routines
2. Maltese
Origins and Early History
The Maltese traces its roots back to the Mediterranean island of Malta, where it has been cherished as a companion for centuries, according to Hill’s Pet.
Ancient Greek and Roman writings mention this elegant breed, admired for its beauty and charm. Over time, the Maltese became a beloved lapdog among nobility and families alike.
Living Comfortably in Apartments
Small in size and low-energy compared to larger breeds, the Maltese adapts easily to apartment living. Short walks or a bit of indoor play are usually enough to keep them content. Their minimal shedding makes them well-suited to close quarters with neighbors.
Disposition and Behavior
Maltese dogs are affectionate dog breeds, while being lively and deeply loyal to their families. They enjoy playtime, entertaining with little tricks, and offering plenty of cuddles. Seniors especially value their attentiveness, as this breed often acts like a natural therapy dog, tuned into emotions.
Why They’re Ideal for Seniors
Silky, low-shedding coat that reduces allergens in the home
Compact size perfect for apartment living and travel
Playful yet gentle personality suited to calmer lifestyles
They form a strong bond with their dog owners, providing constant companionship
3. Bichon frise
Historical Origins
The Bichon Frise has roots in the Mediterranean, where it was related to other calm small dog breeds like the Maltese and Havanese.
Spanish sailors introduced the breed to Tenerife, and later, Italian sailors reintroduced it to Europe in the 14th century, as per WebMD. Over time, their charm and elegance made them favorites in noble households.
Apartment-Friendly Lifestyle
Compact and adaptable, the Bichon Frise thrives in apartment settings. Their playful energy doesn’t require a large yard—short walks and indoor games are enough. They are also not excessive barkers, which makes them an excellent choice for city living.
Personality Traits
Known for their cheerful and affectionate nature, Bichons treat every day like a joyful adventure. They love to have outdoor play sessions, cuddle, and interact with everyone they meet, including other pets. While naturally friendly, they can sometimes become overly excitable if not given a calm structure.
Why Seniors Appreciate Them
Hypoallergenic coat makes them suitable for allergy-sensitive owners
Gentle, playful personality that lifts spirits
Easily trained and eager to please their pet parent
Small size and adaptability are ideal for apartment living
4. Shih Tzu
Historical Roots
The Shih Tzu, meaning “lion dog” in Chinese, originated in Tibet over 1,000 years ago, according to the AKC.
Bred from the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso, they were treasured by Buddhist monks and often gifted to Chinese royalty. Their bold look and flowing coats symbolized the lion, an important figure in Buddhist tradition.
Adaptability to Smaller Spaces
Shih Tzus are perfectly suited to apartment living thanks to their compact size and sociable nature. They enjoy short daily walks but are equally content lounging indoors with their owners. Their calm temperament makes them ideal for seniors who want a balance of activity and relaxation.
Character and Temperament
This breed is affectionate, lively, and enjoys being part of every family activity. Shih Tzus are friendly with visitors, other pets, and children, though their small size means supervision is needed with young kids. While playful, they also love snuggling on the couch—making them wonderful companions for seniors.
Why They Make Great Senior Companions
Gentle, affectionate, and devoted to their owners
Low-shedding coat, though frequent grooming is essential for upkeep
Small size makes them easy to handle and ideal for apartments
Adaptable to both active and quieter daily routines
5. Havanese
Historical Development
The Havanese is the only dog breed native to Cuba, where it was cherished as a beloved companion. Over the years, its cheerful nature and adaptability have made it popular among city dwellers worldwide. Today, the breed is admired for its charm, intelligence, and ability to thrive in many environments.
Apartment and City Living
Small but sturdy, the Havanese fits seamlessly into apartment life. They are adaptable, playful, and happy as long as they are near their people. Although they can be vocal at times, they typically keep barking to a manageable level.
Personality and Social Nature
PetMD mentions that Havanese are known as natural comedians with a lively, affectionate temperament. They love entertaining their families and thrive on attention from adults, children, and even strangers. Smart and eager to learn, they excel in training and often enjoy showing off tricks.
Why Seniors Enjoy Them
Low-shedding short coat, suitable for allergy-sensitive pet parents
Affectionate and social, perfect for companionship
Small size makes them portable and easy to handle
Adaptable to various environments, from busy cities to quiet homes
6. Yorkshire Terrier
Breed Origins
Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately called “Yorkies,” originated in 19th-century England. They were first bred by Scottish weavers who migrated to Yorkshire, where the small dog breeds were used to chase rodents in textile mills. Today, their role has shifted from hardworking vermin hunters to beloved lapdogs and companions.
Living in Small Spaces
Despite their bold personalities, Yorkies adapt well to apartment life. They require minimal exercise daily, such as short walks and indoor play, to stay happy. However, their tendency to bark makes early training important for peaceful coexistence in close quarters.
Character and Behavior
Yorkies are small in size but have a big, confident personality. They are affectionate with their families, yet can be stubborn, which sometimes makes training a challenge. With positive reinforcement and patience, they quickly learn to be perfect for seniors.
Why Seniors Find Them Perfect
Tiny size makes them portable and easy to handle
Loyal and affectionate lapdogs that enjoy constant companionship
Moderate exercise needs are ideal for apartment living
Hypoallergenic dog breed, silky short coat with minimal shedding (though daily brushing is needed)
7. Lhasa Apso
Breed Origins
The Lhasa Apso hails from Tibet, where it was bred over a thousand years ago to serve as a sentinel in monasteries and palaces. Revered as sacred dogs, they were believed to house the souls of lamas after death. Their alert nature and dignified presence made them excellent guardians, despite their small size.
Living in Small Spaces
Lhasas are well-suited for apartment or small-home living. They don’t require much exercise—short walks in the dog park and bursts of indoor play are usually enough to keep them happy. Independent by nature, they enjoy lounging but also surprise their owners with playful sprints around the house.
Character and Behavior
Smart, confident, and sometimes stubborn, the Lhasa Apso is a unique mix of regal aloofness and family clown.
They can be reserved with strangers but are deeply loyal to their families. Training may take patience due to their independent streak, but with gentle, reward-based methods, they can become obedient and furry companions.
Why Seniors Find Them Perfect
Small and manageable size, easy to carry and care for
Independent yet affectionate, offering balanced companionship to the senior living community
Low-to-moderate exercise needs are ideal for relaxed lifestyles
Long, hypoallergenic coat (minimal shedding) that brings beauty, though it requires minimal grooming regularly
Conclusion
Finding the best dogs for seniors often comes down to matching lifestyle with the right temperament. Many small dogs adapt well to apartment life, needing only minimal exercise and a bit of regular grooming to stay happy and healthy.
For those seeking low-maintenance dogs, breeds like the Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, or Yorkshire Terrier make a great choice. Their low-shedding coats and adaptability to small living spaces make them ideal dogs for senior citizens in apartments that don’t shed much. While some may require occasional professional grooming or regular brushing, their sweet temperaments and loyalty more than make up for their grooming needs.
Ultimately, the best dogs for seniors are the ones that bring joy, comfort, and a sense of companionship. With their fun-loving personalities and even-tempered nature, they truly are the perfect furry friends for senior living communities and beyond.
