One of the best things about dogs is that they’re not just wonderful companions for adventures and an active living, but also can provide an enduring friendship to older adults. If you’re wondering, your parents or older relatives should have a dog to keep off feelings of isolation. The answer is, ‘yes!’
Having a pet, especially a dog, is a responsibility, but it’s also a way to stay engaged and active later in life. Still, not everyone ages the same; some senior citizens need calmer dogs, while active seniors can perfectly coexist with slightly more energetic pups.
If you’re ready to adopt a doggo that will be your long-term companion even into your older age, or just want to give a pet to your aging parents, here are 7 loving dogs to pick from.
Best Dog Breeds for Seniors Seeking Peaceful Companionship
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If your parent or some other elderly loved one needs an easygoing but joyful little dog, look no further than the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This toy dog has been favored by royals and has entertaining and sociable company, which will brighten up the lives of its elderly pet owners.
Cavs have a highly trainable nature and an amiable personality that helps them get along with owners of all age groups. They’re not just sweet-tempered lap dogs, but also amazing companion dogs for owners who want to stay active and go out on short walks daily.
As low-shedding doggos, Cavs are comparatively easy to take care of and won’t make your grandma’s favorite sofa all messy with loose hair. PetMD recommends daily brushing, nevertheless, so your Cav can keep looking its best.
2. Pug
Pug is a little clown being loved since the times of ancient Chinese emperors, and make loving pets for older people. With its lively and calm demeanor, it can live calmly with easygoing owners, especially those who don’t have the knees for long walks outdoors.
Pugs are brachycephalic dogs, so they live well indoors, especially in humid and hot weather. Like all dogs, they do need some daily walks or indoor play to stay healthy and keep off obesity. Pugs look too adorable with their wrinkly faces, but these wrinkles also require regular cleaning to avoid infections.
According to the AKC, Pugs have short coats that do shed a little, but brushing them regularly makes it more manageable.
These tiny dogs have big hearts but delicate feelings; make sure to avoid using harshness while training, as they respond nicely to positive reinforcement.
3. Pekingese
Pekingese is another companion dog breed with a history with Chinese nobility, and is still favored by many dog lovers. These flat-faced pooches have a lion-like mane and an affectionate expression that makes us fall in love with them.
These small dogs have a thick double coat that needs regular grooming, such as combing and occasional bathing. If your elderly parents prefer staying indoors, a Pekingese dog can be a pretty awesome companion to them, as long as it’s getting regular play sessions.
These pooches are quite alert in nature and will still let their older owners know of anything unusual with their barks. They’re also quite smart and learn cues and tricks with pleasure and ease. As loving dogs, Pekingese tend to bond with their families and can suffer from separation anxiety if they’re left alone.
4. Bolognese
Beady eyes, a cute snout, and a fluffy white coat… Bolognese is a dog impossible not to love. If you’re looking for smaller-sized companion dogs for your elderly loved ones, this breed is one of the best options you can consider.
Bolognese is an Italian dog breed known for its calm and adaptable nature. They make quintessential lap dogs for senior pet parents, while also being sweet playmates for their grandchildren when they visit. Though these pooches deserve to be cared for, and are better suited for children who know how to handle small dogs.
These little white dogs enjoy the companionship of their owners and don’t mind staying indoors with them. These affectionate dogs get along well with other dogs in the household and don’t mind the presence of guests.
5. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu (or the little lion) is one of the prettiest, long-haired breeds that can live lovingly with senior citizens. Developed in Tibet 1000 years ago (as per Britannica), they were given as gifts to Chinese royals by Tibetan monks.
Nowadays, they’re one of the most popular doggos that can adapt to different types of living situations.
What makes Shih Tzus good companion dogs for older adults is not only their happy-go-lucky and loving nature, but also their alertness. Want your elderly mom or dad to stay active? A Shih Tzu, despite being perfect for apartment living, can also be an eager walking companion.
These pups also coexist nicely with other pets at home and enjoy the company of children. Shih Tzus are playful dogs with a mind of their own and a love for carrying things in their mouths.
Shih Tzu’s long, lion-like mane can be tricky to care for if the owners are older; taking them to a professional groomer or getting their hair trimmed can simplify things.
6. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are small, mild-tempered dogs that don’t need a huge yard or a very active pet parent to live happily. They’re one of the best lap dog breeds for seniors who want canine companionship without having to take their pup on hikes and jogging sessions.
These charming dogs have recognizable perky ears and a flat (brachycephalic) face that can make it hard for them to breathe. Suitable for moderate temperatures, this pup might struggle when it’s too hot or too cold outdoors
These pups will happily play in a fenced yard, but make sure they don’t overexert themselves and keep them cool in summer. Frenchies are good apartment pups and make fancy little city dogs. They can adapt to different types of environments.
Moderate exercise and indoor play time are always a good idea for even a tiny doggo like Frenchie, as it keeps them healthy.
7. Greyhound
Though Greyhounds are larger dogs that love to run, they’re surprisingly calm and just as good indoor pets as some smaller breeds. As the fastest dogs in the world, Greyhounds appreciate a chance to spread their lean and long legs, but also cherish quiet moments indoors with their pet parents.
This hound breed hails from Egypt and can run up to 45 miles per hour. Despite these traits, they make loyal companions and can live lovingly with both senior citizens and children. They have an affectionate nature and get attached to their favorite person, which makes them prone to separation anxiety.
Greyhounds do have a prey drive, so if you have cats or birds at home, better be careful. They’re not aggressive dogs when it comes to their behavior towards strangers, though, and are also rather sensitive in nature.
Conclusion
Pet ownership when you’re older can be an exciting experience; dogs don’t just keep you active and healthy, they also keep away a sense of loneliness. These dog breeds are known to be easy-going and loving as long as they’re getting good care, love, and attention from their pet parents.
Some other dog breeds for seniors may include Bichon Frise, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Boston Terrier, and Labrador Retriever, which are not overly demanding and have moderate exercise needs. All of these breeds for seniors prove to be loyal friends and thrive on human interaction.
