Often when we grow old, we need a companion. Even when the house is full, there is loneliness that haunts you. When you grow old, you need somebody who cuddles with you, plays with you, and enjoys your company.
That’s where the dog breeds step in as great companions. Usually, older people prefer keeping dogs as pets to fill a missing space in their lives.
Small dog breeds often work well for families and elderly people. You will find by discovering the dog breeds. As puppies are good for children, likewise, dogs that match the seniors’ energy levels must be chosen for them. Because if you choose a dog that is energetic and highly active, you will end up going to the hospital for pains and physiotherapy.
So, growing old does not mean the fun of life ends here. Choosing from companion dog breeds means spicing up life’s fun. Also, this is the right way to ask yourself, at this age, how fit you are. And honestly, if you have a pet dog, it can help you keep your health and life balanced with daily walks.
Did You Know?
Owning a dog in your 80s means several health benefits. So, just like an apple keeps a doctor away. Good companion dogs keep health issues like blood pressure and stress away.
This guide will walk you through dog breeds that are best for senior citizens, require minimal grooming, and have an affectionate nature.
Best Dog Breeds For Seniors Seeking a Quiet Companion
1. Bolognese
The Bolognese is a calm, gentle, and reserved dog, making it an excellent companion for older adults. They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes training relatively easy and helps them become well-mannered, obedient pets.
However, because the Bolognese is naturally shy and deeply attached to its owner, it does not tolerate being left alone for long periods and may develop anxiety if isolated too often.
They enjoy staying close to their people and appreciate light, gentle playtime. Another reason they’re a great match for seniors is their low-shedding coat. One of the biggest advantages of owning a Bolognese is that they don’t leave fur everywhere and don’t require frequent brushing.
A simple weekly combing—once or twice—is usually enough to keep their coat in good condition.
2. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is an excellent companion for older adults thanks to its small size, intelligence, and cheerful personality. This breed thrives in calm, cozy environments, making it especially well-suited to senior lifestyles.
While generally quiet and affectionate, the Japanese Chin is also alert—quick to bark when it notices strangers or senses something unusual, adding a gentle layer of awareness to the home.
The Japanese Chin is happiest around dogs of its own breed or those it already knows well. They are generally easy to train and do not have demanding grooming needs, which makes them low-maintenance companions.
However, if you have children at home, it’s important to supervise interactions, as the Japanese Chin prefers gentle handling and a calm environment.
Purina says this cute dog with a soft and silky coat drools a lot. So, you know what to do? Carry a towel to wipe away the drooling.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is often recommended mainly for its small size and adorable appearance. Small in size and gentle by nature, Shih Tzus are ideal for indoor living and adapt well to apartments or cozy homes. They enjoy companionship and calm interaction, making them perfect for seniors who want a loving lapdog without high energy demands.
While playful and loyal, they are generally low-vocal and easygoing, providing comfort, warmth, and companionship without overwhelming their owners. With regular grooming and gentle care, a Shih Tzu can be a lifelong, devoted friend for seniors looking for a peaceful yet affectionate canine companion.
They also enjoy outdoor exercise, keeping their owners engaged throughout the day.
It is known for gaining weight, so you need to keep a count of its calories, as AKC mentions.
4. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs, also known as lazy dog breeds, are known for alleviating feelings of loneliness and depression. They are adorable, furry, and always ready to cuddle.
They make a great companion because they have the ability to bring joy and happiness to your life. They are also known as couch potatoes because they can snuggle and snore all day on the couch.
They are perfect for senior citizens because they act like a personal trainer. They never let you miss a walk and require gentle exercise, which keeps them healthy, active, and busy.
Aren’t these small dogs a gateway to a healthy lifestyle?
No doubt, yes!
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a popular dog breed known for their friendly and affectionate nature. It likes to be around children and is a perfect companion for all age groups. It is mainly recommended for older people because of its calm and gentle nature. The Cavalier dogs are patient and tolerant and require low exercise.
They have the ability to provide emotional support that elderly people crave. However, daily walks and running are essential for their health and mental stimulation. If you have a backyard, playing with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel would be enough to keep it energetic all day.
Also, they are low-maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming.
6. Pug
Pugs belong to the toy group with a charming, loving, and easy-going nature. They are friendly and loyal companions that are good to be around children and other dogs.
They are recommended for seniors because of their two qualities. First, because of their lazy attitude, they quickly adjust to home environments, which means zero to minimal efforts are required by the owner to adjust them. They crave their owner’s presence regardless of the size of the home.
Secondly, because of its size and low energy levels, that includes low exercising and less dietary requirements, make them a perfect fit.
The grooming requirements for a Pug are also minimal. It has a short coat, which is easy to groom, but it sheds a lot. However, with brushing 4-5 times a week, shedding is manageable. The low-maintenance requirements of the Pug and its calm personality traits make it the ideal choice for senior people.
7. Pekingese
Last but not least, the Pekingese is a loyal, affectionate, and independent breed that belongs to the toy group. Apart from being a companion, they also work as watchdogs and can alert you when they sense danger.
They are safer to be around children, pets, and other dogs, however, with supervision. They are perfect for senior people because of the minimal grooming requirements and easy-to-train personality. As they like to live in calm and cozy atmospheres, they will enjoy being lap dogs and prove to be one of the most loyal dogs to their owners, as noted by WebMD.
The Pekingese’s double soft coat sheds seasonally, so daily brushing is required to avoid matting. Having a Pekingese does not require daily exercise. A brisk walk is enough to keep them healthy.
In terms of training, they might get stubborn. Therefore, it is important to socialize them early with other people. It is famous about the Pekingese, what you give them, they return to you.
Conclusion
All of the breeds that we have listed make a perfect match for older people. They are low-maintenance companions that require minimal exercise and grooming. Their necessities are basically food, vet visits, and daily walks. However, there are many other breeds, like Mini Goldendoodle, that also rank as best dog breeds for seniors.
Getting a dog for yourself, whether you are young or old, is a huge commitment and something that must not be rushed into.
