20 Dog Breeds That Are Perfect Fur Friends For Seniors

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a suitable pet to raise in apartments or smaller living environments. These dogs can be easily handled and cared for by even those suffering from mobility issues.

These gentle creatures also crave the company of their human companions. Meanwhile, the loyalty of these Spaniels knows no bounds.

Always excited to please its owner, the Bichon Frise is extremely easy to train and socialize. Clever and quick to learn, they respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement and consistency in methods of training.

For the most part, they are well-behaved and easily adapt to apartment living, making them a ready-made modern dog.

Extremely lightweight, Pomeranians can easily be carried or placed on the lap. They can be carried even by individuals suffering from a backache or other back-related issues.

Keeping company is one of the main purposes of keeping a Pomeranian. These dogs help people come to terms with their loneliness or isolation from the world.

Unofficially called the lion dogs, loyalty and devotion are two basic temperaments that every dog owner demands from their Shih Tzu dog. Also, these dogs are known for recognizing the different moods of their owner and sharing emotional support accordingly.

While almost perfect, the only drawback to this breed is its susceptibility to separation anxiety when left alone. For retired individuals, however, this will not be an issue as they don’t have to leave daily for work.

As long as the owner is willing to groom their dog regularly or hire a professional groomer, Maltese dogs are not that challenging to raise. Since they are happy with being taken on short walks and playing indoors, even the low-energy-level seniors can deal with them.

Aside from that, Maltese are easy to train dogs that do not require much hassle in teaching basic instructions to them. Their intelligence and adaptability make it easy for them to learn, hence allowing seniors to develop a great bond with their pets.

French Bulldogs, an iconic breed, are easier to take care of than you may have realized. Thanks to their minimal grooming and moderate exercise needs, these pups are beloved among elderly citizens.

The very social and affectionate nature of the French dog also makes it a champion for older people. This French bulldog breed is often the first choice for elder people who live alone and/or need emotional support.

Though the Boston Terrier is a gentle breed, it isn’t called the “American Gentleman” for just its calm demeanor. These dogs also possess a unique coat with a mix of black and white that resembles a tuxedo, hence the name.

Additionally, this terrier breed has also been called big dogs in little packaging, as they can only grow around 10 to 15 inches tall. Playful and clownish, these dogs are also great entertainers.

Adorned with a catchy appearance, the Miniature Schnauzer uses the combination of its beautiful double coating and curious eyes to attract potential pet owners.

Another distinguishing feature about Schnauzers is their adaptability. They easily adapt to various living conditions, from a very small apartment to a really big house.

Initially bred to serve as lap dogs, Pugs are often the go-to breed when gifting to a senior citizen. They are possibly one of the least energetic breeds with minimal exercise requirements.

Despite their inactive lifestyle, Pugs leave no stone unturned when showering their owners with love and affection. The only thing they love more than human company is the occasional treats they love to snack on.

The West Highland White Terrier is rather famous among the elderly for its tiny size, friendly nature, and low exercise needs. In fact, the playful and affectionate nature of Westie makes them a fun and likable companion for the aged.

In addition, Westie is watchful and protective, therefore acting as added protection for the lonely older adult.

A comfort dog by design, Cocker Spaniels are ideal for seniors with health or cognitive issues, including dementia, Alzheimer’s, and so on. These canines are naturally inclined to serve as protectors to their owners in spite of their small size.

Besides that, Cocker Spaniels boast a perky, special appearance. With their dangling ears and expressive eyes, added to that delicate coat, the dogs are considered one of the most adorable dog species.

While Toy Poodles might be a little expensive to purchase as a gift, you simply can’t put a price on friendship. This designer breed was developed as a luxury dog, but their popularity has since grown to older demographics.

For individuals living in apartments with limited space, Toy Poodles are the perfect specimen. They require minimal space to live and burn their excess energy, making them ideal for city dwellers.

Gifting a Yorkshire Terrier is a great way to someone how much you value their friendship. Though these dogs appeal to a wide range of people, most believe that they are more appealing to older individuals rather than to younger people.

Older people who live alone or have an empty nest may appreciate the companionship and constancy of a dog such as the Yorkshire Terrier. Many have easier, more leisurely lifestyles in which their dogs fit more comfortably.

The Cairn Terrier is compact and strong, originally hailing from the Scottish Highlands. The word cairn refers to a pile of stones used as a landmark in the dog's native habitat.

In the role of working dogs, these terriers were highly demanded for their tenacity and surefootedness on harsh terrain. And, when one dog from this breed featured in the classic 1939 movie, The Wizard of Oz, their popularity skyrocketed almost overnight.

Beagles make for excellent companion dogs despite being originally bred as hunting dogs. As hunting became rare in humans, these canines found a new purpose for their existence: an affectionate pal for elders and families.

Occasionally, beagles are known to show independent traits and may not always depend on humans for affection. But, this is a positive trait that may save lives, especially for people with cognitive decline.

For the most part, Dachshunds are dogs that do not entail much in the way of maintenance. They require moderate exercise, which can be easily tended to by seniors through small walks or time spent indoors playing.

Besides, their grooming requirements are also very low, with a short coat that needs only an occasional brushing. On top of this, Dachshunds can live into their mid-15-year range and beyond. This is quite an extended span of time for a senior to enjoy a loving and fulfilling companionship with their pet.

Despite its similarity in appearance to Rough Collie, the Shetland Sheepdog breed is not related to the latter.

Instead, it is a distinct breed developed from a mixture of Scandinavian herding dogs. This breed is prized for the unique coat that comes with a signature white marking.

Often considered to be overly aggressive, Chihuahua can transform into a loyal and affectionate dog with the right nurturing and care. Besides, these low-maintenance dogs don’t need much less physical effort from the owner's side.

As Chihuahuas can be wary of strangers, it’s vital to socialize them from a young age as pups. Their small size also makes them easier to handle and eliminates the possibility of accidental falls or injuries to their masters.

The second breed from Scotland on our list, the origin of the Scottish Terrier dates back to the early 18th century. Originally meant to be a hunting dog for vermin control, this breed has come a long way to become loving house companions.

Most of the credit for the Scottish Terrier’s popularity should be given to Queen Victoria, who fell in love with this breed. Before becoming common household dogs, they were mostly limited to the Scottish upper class.

You may find a few behavioral issues while raising a Lhasa Apso if you are a novice owner. They may possess much self-importance and are known at times to be stubborn.

But, when they are on their best behavior, these canines are not just loyal but fiercely protective of their families. If you want your elderly friend to have a lasting bond, consider gifting them the Lhasa Apso.