The best dogs for older people

Dogs can be incredibly helpful and beloved companions, especially for those in retirement or whose mobility isn’t the same as it once was. From reducing loneliness to motivating people to keep mobile, a dog can have an enormously positive effect on older adults. Fortunately, there is a breed of dog that is perfect for everyone, including those who do not wish to walk for hours a day or who are concerned about their mobility limitations. Whether you enjoy long rugged walks or are reliant on a stair lift, the right dog is waiting for you. 

Michelle from the dog walking company, Wet Nose Waggy Tail, thinks dogs are wonderful companions and explains her thoughts on what type of dog is best for older people: “It depends on how active an older person is. As a general rule, I’d say an older rescue dog, one that needs company and moderate exercise, so you benefit from companionship and the outdoor life without having to try and tire a young, energetic breed like a Springer Spaniel!”

Read on to find out the best dog breeds for seniors.

It should be noted that some breeds can be prone to health issues (such as French Bulldogs and the Cavillier King Charles Spaniel). To offset potential vetinary costs, consider adopting a dog rather than purchasing one outright.

Greyhounds

Though this breed is known for speed, they are actually gentle giants with a deeply affectionate nature, making them one of the best dogs for older people. Forever Hound Trust, a charity dedicated to rehoming greyhounds and lurchers, spoke about the suitability of greyhounds as pets for those who are retired:

“Many retired greyhounds are wonderful companion animals for older people. They can be calm, gentle and affectionate. They like to go out for a short walk once or twice a day but don’t require a huge amount of exercise. It’s important to find the right dog for a family or individual’s lifestyle and home, and Forever Hounds Trust carefully match dogs with their new owners.” Emma from the trust also mentions the opportunity presented by adopting an older dog:

“Adopting a dog is so important because there are so many rescue dogs in desperate need of a home. There are dogs of all ages in rescue organisations, including Forever Hounds Trust, so adoption is possible, whatever the age of dog you are looking for. There are some real benefits to adopting a dog. When you adopt a dog from Forever Hounds Trust, you will be given as much information as the charity has on that dog. It will have had a full medical check, be vaccinated, neutered, and come with a lead and harness. The charity will continue to offer help, information and support for the life of the dog.”

With any breed, people often have perceptions of what to expect from that kind of dog. However, Emma is quick to dispel incorrect notions about greyhounds:

“People think that they need a lot of exercise, which isn’t true. While they do need one or two short walks a day, most greyhounds are content to spend the rest of the day snoozing on the sofa.”

READ ALSO: Tips for retired first-time pet owners

French bulldogs

French bulldogs are a great dog for seniors and this breed has seen a sharp rise in popularity in the last few years. As a small companion dog, Frenchies have a lot of character and many qualities that are highly prized, especially if you have limited mobility.

Although Frenchie’s can be high energy as puppies, as all breeds are, once they get older, they generally only need a few short to medium walks per day.

They love getting and giving attention and can always be found around the dinner table waiting for treats and also snuggled under the covers in their owner’s bed. They are very entertaining, love belly rubs, and enjoy being affectionate with their owners. Frenchie’s are generally a friendly breed of dog, so they also make friends fast in the dog park.

They weigh typically less than 35lbs (although some are bigger), which makes them a great size for a small home. They are highly intelligent and will learn your routines and adapt to them to please you. Frenchies love to cuddle their humans and, therefore, make great companion pets. Frenchies will always prefer to be with their human than away from them.

Older adults can be a great fit for the French Bulldog Rescue Network (FBRN), which is an organisation that accepts surrendered French bulldogs only and tries to match them with a forever home based upon the Frenchie’s needs and preferences. FBRN typically prefers households without young children and with people who are home more often than not.

READ ALSO: How to prepare for getting a pet

West Highland Terriers

West Highland Terriers are often seen as companion pets, and rightly so, despite their small stature, they have big personalities. With expressive faces and a lot of quirky characteristics, they make wonderful partners.

Steve Owen, Chairman of the Southern West Highland White Terrier Club, shared his own experience with the breed:

“West Highland White Terriers do not require a great deal of exercise. I would say that about 20 minutes twice a day would be enough, provided they have a garden to play in. However, once full-grown, they are perfectly able to walk for hours if the owner has the energy.

“I have seen many dogs that are quite happy to walk beside a mobility scooter, but some training would be required. I have owned this breed for nearly 30 years’, and as I’m now 70, I suppose I come in the ‘older adult’ category. However, the great thing about dog ownership is that you have something to get out of bed for.”

Steve also offered an alternative if you are interested in a Westie: “I have also owned a Shih Tzu for many years, and I would say that this delightful breed is also an ideal pet for older people. They need a similar amount of exercise as Westies. Both breeds require regular clipping at a trimming parlour, so this ongoing expense should be taken into account.”

Michelle from Wet Nose Waggy Tail also recommends Westies alongside Greyhounds and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: “From our experience, the lower to moderate energy dogs that still like the fresh air are the Westies for people who want smaller dogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in the medium size dog bracket and Greyhounds if people prefer a larger dog.”

READ ALSO: Reasons why getting a pet can lead to a happier life

Poodles

Majestic and fun-loving, Poodles are perfect for those with a little more energy, though as they come in three sizes - toy, miniature and standard - they can be suitable for any size living space.

The Poodle Club in Victoria is an authoritative voice on this breed, and Linda Johnson and Jo Turnley were happy to share their insight:

“What makes Poodles special is poodles are non-shedding, non-allergenic, low odour, extremely easy to train and they love to be pampered. They come in three sizes, so there is a size to match everyone’s living space and exercise routine. They make good watchdogs and will when trained, alert the hard of hearing to the phone ringing or visitors approaching.

“Toys make good lap dogs but have lots of energy and enjoy a walk. Minis and especially standards need daily exercise. They motivate seniors to get out and about. Poodles have a non-threatening image and can be a social magnet, encouraging seniors to get out and about to the local Obedience Dog Club or dog park, creating new friendships with other dog owners/walkers.”  

“All I could really add is that the intelligence of the breed seems to especially understand the elderly. Mine, for example, knows not to jump on my mother’, who is now 87; I didn’t train them this way; they just seem to know. Even when my Mum was younger and walked one of mine from time to time, they would behave perfectly on a walk with her.”

Catherine from Wild Paws also agrees that toy breeds are a great option: “The best breeds would be something small and easy to handle. Anything that’s too big or boisterous will be a struggle to control, which will not be enjoyable.

“Toy dogs are a great idea as they don’t have many demands, they just want a warm home and someone to care about. They love nothing more than snuggling up on the sofa, keeping your lap warm and require little more than short walks. Some great dogs for those in retirement would be a Shih Tzu, Maltese Terrier and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They were literally bred to be companion dogs, so it’s what they do best!”

READ ALSO: Top UK walking spots for you and your dog

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small to medium-sized dogs known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They make great dogs for older people for numerous reasons. In terms of size, they are compact, generally weighing between 6 to 8 kilograms and are about 12 to 13 inches tall. Their manageable size makes them easy for older individuals to handle and care for.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are also renowned for their friendly and sociable disposition. They love human companionship and are known to be affectionate lap dogs. They don't require extensive exercise, although they do enjoy daily walks and playtime.

When it comes to low-maintenance dogs for seniors, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are near the top of the list as they have relatively low grooming needs. This makes them easier to care for, which can be beneficial for older owners. They are loyal and devoted to their owners, often forming strong bonds with them. This can be an attractive asset for many potential dog owners.

Maltese

A Maltese is another recommended dog for seniors, due to their small stature, friendly temperament, and minimum exercise requirements.

Some older adults will be attracted to Maltese dogs because of their tiny size, making them easy to handle and suitable for smaller living spaces. Maltese dogs are also popular because of their sweet and gentle nature. They are affectionate, playful, and enjoy being around their human companions.

Those with limited mobility will also like the Maltese for their relatively low exercise needs. They still enjoy short walks and playtime, but they don't need vigorous exercise to stay healthy and happy.

READ ALSO: Best pets for old people

What are the best dogs for older people?

• Greyhounds
• French Bulldogs
• West Highland Terriers
• Poodles
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
• Maltese

As you can see, there are some fantastic dog breeds for older people, helping those in retirement enjoy the companionship of dogs for years to come. The best dog for you will ultimately be a personal matter based on your unique situation, but the best tip is to make sure you choose one with a temperament that matches your lifestyle.

This article was brought to you by Handicare, working with Age Co, who provide a range of home mobility products such as stairlifts, homelifts and bathing solutions. For more information about how they can help make your home more accessible, please get in touch.