7 Best Calm Dog Breeds That Are Perfect For Seniors

7 Best Calm Dog Breeds That Are Perfect For Seniors

For adults who want to have dogs that don’t make them go crazy and are calm like water are some dog breeds they’ll love. These dog breeds are affectionate and lovely. These dogs have a great temperament and good nature that make them ideal for seniors. Seniors want to have dogs with a flexible and relaxed lifestyle, and the calmest dogs are good at flexibility.

Calmest Dog Breeds That Are Perfect for Seniors

If you’re a senior person or a human who just doesn’t want a mess and running after dogs, then these seven dog breeds are calm and quiet to have, and most of them do not do excessive barking. You always have to know their energy levels and diet instructions to maintain their lifestyle.

We’re sure that these large dogs and also the small ones will love walks and little exercises, and won’t be as stubborn as other pets are.

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

It’s a small breed that has the attentiveness of a toy dog and the athleticism of a sporting Spaniel. These dogs stand 12 – 13 inches in height and weigh about 13 -18 pounds. These dogs are perfect and cute for apartment living, and this is why they’re good companions for seniors.

According to Hill’s Pet, they are known for their loving nature. This breed stays happiest around its owners. They have silky coats that come in four colors like black, ruby, tricolor, and tan. You’ve got to make sure to regularly groom so they have the best shape and appearance for a long.

When you talk about their health, Cavaliers are prone to certain conditions like eye problems and mitral valve disease, so regular checkups are a must. If you want a cute dog, this dog breed is a good choice.

2. Shih Tzu

Often referred to as lion dogs, they come from a rich history. They originated from China but were cherished by royalty later. They are affectionate dogs with an elegant appearance. Their long, flowing coat needs regular grooming to prevent matting.

They are minimal shedders, and their luxurious coat demands daily brushing and grooming. You have to keep them cool in summer as they are prone to conditions due to their short-nosed structure. They can develop breathing issues easily, and that’s where you have to be careful.

If you’re looking for an active dog and a great dog breed, ShihTzu are friendly and intelligent, with fewer health concerns and an outgoing personality. They love humans and want to be in their company. They have moderate energy levels, which make them the best dogs for seniors.

3. French Bulldog

Some say they’re velcro dogs because they love to stay close to people. They have good bursts of energy and enjoy playtime. You’ll have to spend time with this dog breed so they do not get frustrated. You can take them for walks and also play with them in indoor games.

Call them Frenchie as a nickname. They are compact and muscular dogs with a unique bat-like ear and a short and smooth coat. They originated from England and were refined in France. They were bred as companion dogs, and this makes them the best dog breed for apartment dwellers.

French Bulldogs need a well-balanced nutritional diet that keeps them healthy and active. You’ll have to ensure portion control as per the dog’s age so they do not get into diseases later. They are the best dog breeds when it comes to loyalty and friendship.

4. Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise

If you want to be loved by a calm and gentle nature dog, the Bichon Frise is the best dog to have. This small breed has Mediterranean roots and is adored by European nobility. Perfect for seniors, this is the best dog breed that’s calm and affectionate.

Bichon Frise Profile

If you leave them alone for some time, they can develop separation anxiety and will be frustrated. They are wonderful partners and perfect for small spaces, as they are small in size but have a big personality. They are alert dogs, so you can have a good-natured guard dog that cares for you when you’re asleep.

They have curly white coat that looks luxurious, and they’re manageable with brushing and grooming. Their low-shedding hair is a win for pet owners who want to have less mess and no allergies.

5. Pug

Pug

With its squished face, expressive eyes, and charming snore, Pug is a bundle of happiness in a small package. They were bred as royalty lapdogs in ancient China. They are one of the best dog breeds for seniors. Pugs are not fans of long coat walks or intense activity. They need to play a little and then they’re well to go!

Pug Profile

They are low-energy dogs, but that doesn’t mean that they’ll sit all day at a place. They are expert snugglers. They just cannot have too long play sessions, but when they are indulged in play, they give you the fullest. Take them on daily walks and see the magic. They want to have a relaxed lifestyle, which helps them be better at mental health as well.

What sets them apart? Their loyalty proves that this is a great breed. They want you to be yours, and they prove that themselves. They are known for a little drooling and snorting, but that only adds to their charm. They are low-maintenance dogs and need minimal grooming as a small dog, and you won’t be bothered too much.

6. Greyhound

Greyhound

It might surprise you, but the Greyhound is famous for its racing past. They are one of the calmest dog breeds that are perfect for seniors. Nicknamed the “40-mph couch potato,” this elegant breed is incredibly laid-back and loves short walks followed by long and luxurious naps.

Greyhound Profile

Greyhounds have a sleek and short coat that needs minimal grooming. You just need to groom them a little to keep their skin healthy. While they’re considered large breeds, their gentle dog nature and calm nature is best for smaller living spaces too. They rarely bark, don’t drool much, and are content with a relaxed lifestyle. They are an energetic breed.

Greyhound grooming

These are intelligent dogs according to Purina, and love their pet parents. They’re loyal, sensitive, and affectionate. Many retired racers make excellent family members in their later years. Greyhounds do benefit from a soft bed, regular walks, and some mental stimulation. They don’t love the cold due to their thin coat, so a cozy sweater is a must in cooler climates.

7. Maltese

Maltese

The Maltese may be one of the tiniest dogs on the list, but their presence is larger than life. With their long and flowing white coats and soulful eyes, Maltese dogs are affectionate companions who have won hearts for centuries. Their origin traces back to the island of Malta, where they were adored as noble lapdogs.

Maltese Profile

These Maltese dogs are among the best dogs for seniors, not only for their size but for their loyalty and low energy. They love short walks and quiet companionship. Although their coat appears high-maintenance, daily brushing and regular grooming keep it healthy and mat-free. Some pet owners go for a puppy cut to reduce grooming time.

They’re intelligent dogs and are really friendly, but are picky eaters. High-quality dog food is important to support their health and a glossy coat. Maltese dogs want calm environments and don’t enjoy rough handling. 

Though they are tiny dogs but they have bold personalities and act as alert dogs. With their affectionate nature and compact size, the Maltese is a wonderful choice for those looking to share life with a sweet and loyal furry friend.

Conclusion

When it comes to dogs, the perfect companion isn’t the fastest or flashiest, it’s one that knows when to slow down.

Choosing the best dogs that are also intelligent and great companions can be a big challenge as a dog owner.

The choice also becomes hard as elderly individuals want to have a dog ownership in which occasional professional grooming is needed, and not regular brushing.

Russel Fawn
Russel Fawn is a writer with nearly two decades of experience creating pet-focused content. He has a deep passion for animal rescue and spends his free time volunteering to help animals in need. Over the years, Russel has cared for a variety of pets — including dogs, cats, rabbits, gerbils, and horses — and has always enjoyed learning about animal care, training, and breed behavior. Especially interested in canine obedience and training, Russel loves helping dog owners strengthen the special bond they share with their pets through kindness, patience, and understanding.