10 Best Dog Breeds You Can Adopt As Your Retirement Companion

#6. Pug

a pug for retiree

Pugs, so long as they are healthy, are fantastic companions for elderly people. They do not require much exercise, as they can’t breathe very well through their shortened snouts.

These dogs would much prefer to spend the day lounging on the couch and going for short walks once a day.

Pugs are prone to health issues, and should not be overfed. However, they can be low maintenance, and very entertaining for their elderly owners.

#7. Greyhound




greyhound for retiree

Standard Greyhounds, much larger than Italian Greyhounds, make beautiful companions for seniors looking for a larger dog. Similar to their petite cousins, these dogs sleep the majority of the day and do not require much exercise.

They are incredible apartment dogs, as they are often calm tempered and quiet.

Greyhounds do not shed much and are great with kids. They should be taken for a run every once in a while and will be great for seniors with eager grandchildren.

Greyhounds love a good game of fetch!

#8. Italian Greyhound

Italian greyhound for retiree

Italian Greyhounds are much smaller than their racing legend cousins. These pups are slightly larger than a standard Chihuahua, but weigh less than a handbag!

They are perfect for seniors, who may be lacking in upper body strength.

Their small build gives them an appeal, but many are fearful that they require too much exercise. Fortunately, most Italian Greyhounds will sleep for over 20 hours per day.

During the time that they are awake, they should be walked or exercised before having their next nap. These dogs have almost no fur, and shedding is not an issue!

#9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier-King-Charles-Spaniel for retiree

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sounds like the name of a dog who exudes high maintenance. However, in reality, these dogs are the exact opposite. Cavaliers have a mellow temperament and are generally very sweet and reserved dogs.

They do not need much exercise, and their thick coats are mostly tangle free. These dogs require grooming every so often but will make amazing lap dog companions for seniors looking for a new best friend.

Cavaliers are also usually great with children! This is the perfect excuse to get the grandkids over for a play-date!

#10. Mutts (mixed-breed)

A typical mutt dog (mixed breed) for retiree

Last but not the least there is always the mixed breed will be perfect for an elderly companion! Most mixed breed dogs are void of hereditary health defects, and they come in all shapes and sizes.

The best option for senior citizens is to adopt from a rescue or shelter, where the dog has passed behavioral exams or is predictable.

See Also: Dogs are indeed man’s best friend- 5 stories that prove it

Adoption Tip – The Most useful benefit for a retiree to have a pet dog.

Seniors could use their pets as a means to promote social interaction. They can have regular coffee dates with their pets in tow.

Many seniors head to local dog parks to chat with fellow pet owners. Going for walks with her dog is a great way to open up conversations with new people.

“Dogs are like furry icebreakers,” David Gramly from (Florida) said after adopting and taking care of Noodle for 9 years.