Dog Breeds For Seniors and Retirees

The best dog breeds for seniors will mostly be low-maintenance dogs with lower exercise needs. However, the canine best suited as a companion will vary from senior to senior depending on your 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.

Beagle  Beagles have a reputation for being loud, however that is not always the case. Many seniors care experts have ranked these friendly dogs as one of the most ideal dog breeds for seniors. The breed loves to play, which will keep you active, and has relatively low grooming needs. The beagle is gentle very friendly with kids, so you won’t have to worry about the  grandchildren. To learn about the Beagle breed from The American Kennel Club click here

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel  The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are an elegant breed with a long, silky coat. This affectionate pooch weighs between 13 and 18 pounds and has a life expectancy of 9 to 14 years. Playful, adaptable, and sociable, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can make a loyal companion whether in a rural setting or in your apartment in the city. Though this breed has an excellent watchdog ability and is sure to alert you to any intruders, this small dog is very gentle and friendly. This breed is not hypoallergenic and requires moderate grooming and brushing, as its long, silky fur can be easily matted. With this breed it is critical to find a trustworthy breeder as they are prone to many health issues such as heart conditions, neurological conditions, and eye/skin conditions. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are fairly active and do very well with moderate exercise. Long walks and trips to the dog park are much appreciated! This dog could be suitable for you if you enjoy a somewhat active lifestyle or have a spacious backyard. To learn about the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed from The American Kennel Club click here

Italian Greyhound Greyhounds are quite large dogs, but if you love the look of a greyhound and want something more manageable, the Italian Greyhound might be just the breed. Italian Greyhounds are affectionately, and have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. The friendly dogs are ideal for apartments or small homes as they only need an hour of exercise each day. To learn about the Greyhound Breed from The American Kennel Club click here

Welsh Terrier  The Welsh Terrier is a medium-sized breed that is tan and black and is a true terrier. It was bred for hunting, this dog is full of energy and has an independent spirit. They will generally weigh around 20 pounds. What makes this breed suitable for seniors is its playfulness, energy, and spirit. While it may not be ideal for less able seniors, this dog requires a great deal of exercise, which can help a person to stay in shape. In addition, they are very playful and lively, making them perfect dogs for playing with grandchildren. To learn about the Welsh Terrier Breed from The American Kennel Club click here

Yorkshire Terrier  This bundle of love grows to be about 7 pounds in weight and only 8 to 9 inches tall. Their average lifespan is anywhere from 12 to 15 years. This is undoubtedly the most famous of the very small dog breeds and they are good inside dogs. They will be able to get along with your neighbors pet’s once they get to know them. These dogs do not shed much but do require daily brushing so their coat doesn’t get tangled. They are prone to digestive problems, barking and dental problems. They can be trained not to bark with patience though. To learn about the Yorkshire Terrier Breed from The American Kennel Club click here

West Highland White Terrier  The West Highland White Terrier is a friendly, low maintenance small dog with a rugged, non-fragile build. West Highland White Terriers are happy and curious. They are always busy and involved something. Terriers are also among the friendliest and most affectionate of terriers. They love walks and love to play indoors or outdoors. The West Highland White Terriers are very playful and have a loving personality.  They will keep you entertained with their desire to romp and play will keep you active and alert. To learn about the West Highland White Terrier Breed from The American Kennel Club click here

Poodle  Poodles are suitable dogs for anyone, and are especially popular with seniors. The breed is one of the most intelligent and will provide you with loyal and faithful companionship. Poodles come in three sizes.  The Standard Poodle: Stand over 15 inches at the shoulder; most are in the 22-27 inch range.  The Miniature Poodle: Stands over 10 inches and not over 15 inches at the shoulder; most are in the 13-15 inch range.   The Toy Poodle: Stands 10 inches high at the shoulder. Their gentle loving nature and ability to adapt to any space makes them a suitable choice for any senior. If you have allergies, you can appreciate the low-maintenance needs of the breed’s coat, thanks to its hypoallergenic nature. To learn about the Poodle Breed from The American Kennel Club click here

Labrador Retriever  Labs are known to be friendly, intelligent dogs, and yes, the assumption is true. These qualities make them appropriate for seniors, provided they can get the exercise they crave. It may not be fair to coop these large dogs in an apartment, but if you have a spacious yard, they’ll be very happy. This breed is loving and loyal, and makes a reliable watch dog. To learn about the Labrador Retriever Breed from The American Kennel Club click here

Greyhound  This may come as a surprise, but Greyhounds make excellent pets. While most commonly associated with racing (these dogs can run at 40 miles per hour). Greyhounds are a breed that can be easily adopted as adults. They enjoy daily walks and the occasional chance to run, but they are mostly couch potatoes who enjoy lounging around with their owners. They greyhound stands at around 30 inches in height and weighing up to 80 pounds, it may be surprising to know that Greyhounds are beloved as affectionate couch potatoes. Retired Greyhounds are loving and gentle, rarely bite humans. To learn about the Greyhound Breed from The American Kennel Club click here

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