Dogs can be a great companion for a senior citizen, providing them with day to day love and company when the family cannot be there and these eight breeds are some of the best at doing just that. Remember when picking a dog for an elderly member of your family, an already trained older dog is probably a better choice than a puppy. Also, take into account energy level and the mobility of the person. Make sure the dog and the new owner are a match.
#1 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This breed was bred to be a lap dog and they are great at it. They will sit contently on the couch while you read or watch TV.
#2 – Pug
Pugs are laid back and don’t require too much exercise, making them a good choice for a senior.
#3 – Maltese
Like the King Charles, this breed loves a lap to sit in and is content to stay in it all day. They do require grooming, however, so that needs to be taken into consideration, and they have a bit more energy when they are younger than the pug.
#4 – Bichon Frise
This happy fellow makes an entertaining companion. He will need grooming too and will need a walk, but he likes a lap too.
#5 – Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkie is a small breed, making her a good choice for a senior citizen. Like many on this list, they do need grooming, but they won’t need much exercise.
#6 –Chinese Crested
A breed many don’t think about, actually has a lot going for them. They are small, and the hairless variety won’t need the haircuts some of these other breeds will. Though you do have to take care of their exposed skin, they can be a great companion for a senior that is looking for a dog with a medium energy level that still likes a lap to snuggle on in the evenings.
#7 – Greyhound
We know you are probably thinking, what? But, a rescued greyhound that is retired from the track is actually huge couch potato.. They are a soft and gentle breed, and a good fit for a lot of seniors wanting a larger dog than a lap dog. Not a lot of grooming required, either.
#8 – Italian Greyhound
Like his big relative above, the “Iggy” loves to chill on the couch, or better yet, snuggle on your lap. They do require some exercise, so they would be a good choice for an active senior.
