10 Best Breeds for Older Adults.

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Today I will talk about 10 Best Dog Breeds for Older Adults

Just because you are getting older or are retired doesn't mean that adopting a dog is out of the question.

A dog can be a wonderful companion for an older adult who lives alone or who has more time to spend now that the working years are behind them.

A dog can even be a wonderful "baby" for an older couple whose own babies are now long grown and out on their own.

But choosing a dog in your golden years should be carefully considered; dog breeds that might have been good companions when you were young may not be the best choices now.

Poodles, Maltese, Pomeranians, and pugs are a few breeds that make good pets for seniors.

The best dog breeds for older adults are mostly low-maintenance dogs with lower exercise needs.

However, the canine best suited as a companion will vary from person to person depending on their lifestyle and abilities.

As with any age dog owner, you need to make sure you can meet your dog's needs like exercise, grooming, and health care.

Certain dog breeds are ideal for a more relaxed lifestyle.

With so many dogs out there, you can find the type of dog that best fits your lifestyle and abilities, even when you're in your golden years.

Tip!

Dog ownership has many health and emotional benefits.

Dog companionship has been known to reduce stress and lower blood pressure.

Having a dog may even improve or prevent depression and anxiety.

Plus, exercising with your dog is a great way to stay active.

Breed Characteristics.

The best dog breeds for seniors have moderate energy levels, and most are smaller.

An older adult who has moved to smaller living quarters may have less space for a large, more energetic pup.

Look at breeds that make great companions and adapt well to the lifestyles of their owners.

Larger dogs like Rottweilers or herding dogs like Briards can be a falling hazard if they herd or nudge their humans too hard.

Here are the 10 best dogs recommended for older adults for their golden years.

Number one.

Bichon Frise.

The fluffy little bichon frise is a joyful and affectionate dog that makes an excellent companion.

With an average weight of about 7 to 12 pounds, most people can handle this small breed easily. Bichons are also relatively simple to train.

The bichon will need to be groomed periodically but is otherwise reasonably low maintenance.

Many bichon owners take their dogs to a professional groomer every month or two.

Moderate daily exercise is usually enough to keep the bichon healthy and happy as long as it has companionship.

Breed Overview.

GROUP: Non-sporting (AKC)

HEIGHT: 9 to 12 inches

WEIGHT: 7 to 12 pounds

COAT AND COLOR: Fluffy and curly white hair , may have traces of apricot, buff, or cream, resembling a cotton ball or powder puff.

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 14 to 15 years

Number two.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

The Cavalier is a beloved puppy-like spaniel that is affectionate and adaptable.

This small dog is often happiest when snuggling with its owner.

This breed typically weighs about 11 to 18 pounds and is easy to handle and train.

The Cavalier has some grooming needs, such as regular hair brushing, ear cleaning, and possibly the occasional trip to a groomer.

Overall, Cavaliers are favored among those who love small companion dogs that are well-suited for apartment living.

Breed Overview.

GROUP: Toy (AKC)

HEIGHT: 12 to 13 inches

WEIGHT: 13 to 18 pounds

COAT AND COLOR: Medium-length silky, wavy coat; adults have feathering on their ears, chest, legs, feet, and tail; four-color varieties including tricolor, blenheim, ruby, and black and tan

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 15 years.

Number three.

French Bulldog.

It's almost impossible to be sad around the happy Frenchie.

French bulldogs are among the most cheerful of all dog breeds. They are compact, muscular, and active dogs.

However, at about 19 to 28 pounds, they are still very manageable.

Although they have a good deal of energy, they tend to lack endurance.

Moderate daily exercise is usually adequate for this breed.

Their grooming needs are relatively ​minimal, but be aware of health concerns like brachycephalic syndrome and various skin issues.

Breed Overview.

GROUP: Non-sporting (AKC)

HEIGHT: 11 to 13 inches

WEIGHT: 19 to 28 pounds

COAT AND COLOR: Short, smooth coat in brindle, fawn, white, or combination of brindle and white or fawn and white

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years

Number four.

Greyhound.

How can a racing dog be good for older adults?

You may be surprised to learn that greyhounds are not the high-energy dogs many think they are.

Although greyhounds will enjoy daily walks and the occasional chance to run, most tend to be couch potatoes that enjoy loafing around with their owners.