Dogs are loyal, friendly, and overall great companions. You may have grown up with a furry friend and know how seeing a happy tail wag can instantly make you feel better no matter what. Studies show that pet ownership is connected to lowering blood pressure and decreasing anxiety. Take a deep dive into the best dog breeds for seniors.

When you take care of a pet, you feel the love and affection they have for you when you see a tail wag, when they curl up right at your feet, and when they move closer for you to pet them. It only takes 30 minutes of interacting with your pet for your brain to produce endorphins and dopamine, hormones that help us feel happy and improve our well-being.

The Overlook, a pet-friendly senior living Community in Charlton, MA, understands the special bond between pets and owners. Our Community welcomes residents and their furry friends with a dog park on-site and fun opportunities to introduce your pet to the rest of the Community, like our dog show.

If you’re interested in becoming a dog owner as a senior, you’ll want to make sure that the dog breed you select is right for you. Take a look at the best dog breeds for seniors to help you choose your new four-legged companion.

Dog Breed Characteristics for Seniors

When you’re looking at the best dog breeds for seniors, it’s important to keep in mind what characteristics each type of dog tends to have. While everyone will have different qualities they’re looking for in a dog, we recommend dogs with low-maintenance characteristics for seniors.

Low energy – Having a low-energy dog means you can take them for a short walk for exercise and they’ll be ready to relax when you get home. A dog with high energy levels could mean hours of exercise. If you do have a dog that needs to burn off some energy, you could go to the on-site dog park and socialize with fellow dog owners about your four-legged friends.
Easy to train – Some dogs are more eager to learn than others. You may want to find a dog breed that picks up on training quickly.
Light grooming needs – Dogs have coats of fur that need regular grooming. However, some have heavier, more difficult coats that require a lot of grooming and attention. Having a dog with an easy-to-manage coat means less work for you and less dog hair in your living space.
Affectionate – Many dogs love their owners, but some are more prone to showing affection to visitors as well. When your friends and family members visit, having an affectionate dog who is friendly with everyone will make the visit easier. You can also look for dogs that are good with children so your grandchildren can come over at any time.

The Best Dog Breeds for Seniors

1. Maltese

Lap dogs are great for seniors because they’re small and very happy to be petted all day. If you want a furry companion that will curl up on your lap at a moment’s notice, the Maltese is a great choice.

They don’t need a lot of exercise and generally have a friendly demeanor. The Maltese’s coat is long and does require attentive brushing, but regular grooming appointments can help with that.

2. Pekingese

These small dogs may look more like a puffball, but they’re affectionate, low energy, and happy to be at your side. Because these dogs have a lot of fur, they will need to be groomed, and they will shed. Pekingese are playful and may need an introduction to strangers, but once they’ve been introduced, they could be the dog’s new best friend.

3. Bichon Frise

The quintessential lap dog, the Bichon Frise is a perfect dog for older adults. A Bichon Frise is friendly with everyone – including children – doesn’t shed a lot, and is trainable. Be sure to take care of its fluffy coat so it doesn’t develop mats.

4. Corgi

Corgis are affectionate and alert dogs. Their short coats make them easy to care for. While small, Corgis are protective and will bark to alert you of any strangers.

A herding dog, the Corgi can get up to 30 pounds, and you may find yourself being directed when walking. Luckily, Corgis are trainable, so you’ll have them comfortable on a leash in no time.

5. Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is a great dog breed because they’re trainable, smart, and loving. They are good with small children and will show you all the affection in the world. As a vocal dog, a Miniature Schnauzer will bark to express themselves.

6. Shih Tzu

Friendly is this dog’s middle name. A Shih Tzu is happy to spend time with you and play with kids or other dogs. While they don’t shed much, they will require regular grooming to keep its coat as healthy as possible.

These dogs are highly adaptable and can easily handle schedule or environmental changes – like taking a walk at a different time of day or hearing the air conditioning turn on.

7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

A gentle dog breed, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the most affectionate dogs. They don’t shed that much and only need to be groomed about once a month. They’re trainable and can play with other dogs after they’ve been introduced and socialized.

8. Greyhound

Don’t let the size scare you. While Greyhounds are larger dogs and extremely fast, it doesn’t mean they actually want to spend their time running around all day. Greyhounds are generally calm, affectionate with others, and can do well with one daily walk. Relatively easy to care for, the Greyhound is a great choice for a furry companion.

9. French Bulldog

If you want a dog that’s going to play and love everyone they meet, then the French Bulldog is for you. French Bulldogs are trainable and less likely to bark than other dog breeds. They have a medium energy level, so while they’ll need to run around or walk during the day, they can also rest and relax with you.

10. Pug

Pugs are friendly and, according to the American Kennel Club, charming and mischievous. These dogs are ready to play with anyone and everyone, and never want to stop. While they don’t bark a lot, these dogs can shed quite a bit.

11. Pomeranian

A Pomeranian may only be 7 pounds maximum, but that doesn’t stop them from having a bold personality. These fluffy dogs are affectionate with their owners. Introducing them to family members, friends, and other dogs will most likely make them feel the most comfortable. Expect some consistent activity, as these dogs have a medium energy level compared to others breeds but are more likely to bark to alert than others.

Dog Ownership and Senior Health Statistics

Dog ownership offers seniors measurable benefits for physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.

Approximately 59.8 million, or 45.5%, of American households have a dog.
Senior dog owners walk an average of 22 more minutes per day, or about 2,760 more steps, compared to seniors who do not own dogs.
Seniors who own pets are 36% less likely to report feeling lonely than their non-pet-owning peers.

Dog ownership is a simple yet powerful way to enhance seniors’ physical activity, emotional health, and overall quality of life.

Best Dog Breeds For Seniors FAQs

1. Is it good for seniors to have a dog?

Absolutely! Dogs offer companionship, boost emotional well-being, and encourage daily activity like walks or playtime – great for both body and mind.

2. What is the 3-3-3 rule with dogs?

The 3-3-3 rule helps both you and a newly adopted dog adjust smoothly to a new home.

First 3 days: Focus on letting the dog settle in. Keep interactions calm and predictable, provide a safe space, and avoid overwhelming them with visitors or new experiences.
Next 3 weeks: Expect the dog to test boundaries or show signs of stress. Stay patient, enforce consistent rules, and continue gentle training to build trust and establish routines.
Next 3 months: By now, the dog should feel fully comfortable. Their routines become familiar, and their true personality emerges, allowing a strong, lasting bond to form between you and your new companion.

3. Why do dogs like older adults so much?

Dogs are drawn to calm, gentle, and consistent people. Seniors often provide affection, patience, and predictable routines, which dogs naturally respond to with trust and love.

4. Is 70 too old to get a dog?

Not at all. Age matters less than your energy, lifestyle, and health. Choosing among the best dog breeds for seniors will ensure a happy, manageable relationship for years to come.

5. How can I adopt a dog in Charlton, MA?

Local shelters offer wonderful senior-friendly dogs looking for a loving home. Some great options include:

Friends of Charlton Animal Shelter (FOCAS) – Supports Charlton Animal Control and collaborates with local shelters to help pets find loving homes
Second Chance Animal Services – Offers adoption services, veterinary care, and community programs to match pets with senior owners
Worcester Animal Rescue League (WARL) – Provides adoption services, low-cost veterinary care, and education programs to help animals thrive

Adopting not only gives a pet a second chance but also allows you to find a companion suited to your activity level and lifestyle.

Bring Your Furry Companion to The Overlook

When you’re retiring, having man’s best friend at your side during this time can be one of the greatest things to enjoy. You have all the time to devote to training, going on walks, and knowing how special it is to have a dog’s trust and affection.

At The Overlook in Charlton, MA, we understand why so many seniors cherish their pets or are interested in getting one. That’s why we’ve opened a veterinarian clinic in our Community. This way, you have the peace of mind that your dog can easily get care when they need it.

When you’re ready to make the move to independent living, you and your furry friend will find all you could need or want at The Overlook. Contact us today to schedule a tour.

Explore The 11 Best Dog Breeds for Seniors

Dog Breed Characteristics for Seniors