Top 7 Types of Dogs for Aging Adults (2024)

Having a dog in the home can boost your senior loved one’s mood and activity level. A dog may also ward off intruders. The animal’s love can dispel loneliness, anxiety, depression, and stress. Even when another person performs pet care, a senior can reap these benefits.Before adopting a dog, families should consider their loved ones’ health conditions to see if pet ownership is a viable option.

1. Bichon Frise

This happy-go-lucky, fluffy white breed is very obedient and adores people. They’re also friendly toward other animals and children. A bichon will gladly accompany your loved one wherever he or she goes. They have a curious nature and thrive on fun and excitement.Bichons are easy to train, since they strive to please their owners. They especially love to cuddle. They’re ideal for seniors who don’t leave home for long periods. If bichons feel abandoned, they display anxious behaviors such as chewing, whining, and barking. Bichons don’t require much exercise—just a few daily walks and a little playtime. Their coats are hypoallergenic, and they need daily brushing and monthly grooming.Caring for pets isn’t the only way older adults can boost their overall wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

2. Boston Terrier

This breed craves companionship and is especially fond of seniors. Boston terriers are very attentive and responsive to their owners. They’re also reliable watchdogs who announce visitors at the door. However, once introduced, they’re polite and easygoing, especially with children. They love to play but don’t require much exercise.Temperament varies by dog. Some are high-spirited, while others are gentle and dignified. The most reliable way to discern personality is by obtaining a dog as an adult.Grooming is relatively easy. Boston terriers need daily face cleanings and weekly brushing.

3. French Bulldog

Frenchies are cheerful and companionable. They become nervous and verbal if left alone for long periods. They tend to be well-behaved with strangers, children, and other pets.French bulldogs need daily face cleanings and weekly brushings.To stay healthy, French bulldogs should have 15-minute walks twice daily. They also require some playtime each day, and they love chasing balls. However, be cautious during warm weather, since the breed is vulnerable to heatstroke.

4. Havanese

This is another breed that’s ideal for stay-at-home seniors. Gentle and affectionate, the Havanese seeks constant company. If left alone for more than a few hours, they start chewing and barking.They get along well with strangers, children, and other animals. With a playful nature, the Havanese likes to act silly and draw attention.This breed is alert, notifying when someone has arrived at the house.A Havanese is ideal for a senior with allergies, since it doesn’t shed. Regarding care, this breed requires two walks a day and daily brushing. Keeping the coat clipped short makes grooming easier. Take them to dog salons every two months.Some older adults need help caring for their dogs and managing other daily activities. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Arlington respite care experts at Home Care Assistance are here to help. All of our respite care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.

5. Lhasa Apso

This breed is a loyal friend, happy to sit in its owner’s lap or lie at his or her feet. Their gentle nature makes Lhasa Apsos a good choice for seniors with grandchildren.With an acute sense of hearing and assertive nature, Lhasa Apsos are natural watchdogs. Curious and adventurous, they like to play in yards and parks. However, they don’t require much exercise.Lhasa Apsos don’t shed, but their fur gets matted unless it’s brushed daily. They have long life spans averaging 14 years.

6. Poodle

This breed suits housebound seniors, since poodles are happiest in the company of people. If left alone for extended periods, poodles get lonely and agitated.They’re loyal, affectionate, and playful. Being very intelligent, they’re easily trained, and they get along well with children.There are three sizes of poodles: toy, miniature, and standard. Regular walking will suffice, as they don’t require much exercise. They also prefer staying indoors.These dogs shed less than most other breeds, and their fur is hypoallergenic. However, they still need professional grooming every two months.

7. Pug

Pugs are charming, sociable, and gentle—the ideal temperament for a senior. Though very affectionate, they tend to be quiet. They love to play, cuddle, and please people.Pugs adapt their behavior to their owners. If your loved one tends to be sedentary, a pug will be content to rest with him or her. If your loved one is active, the pug will want to be involved.Make sure to set limits, since pugs can get carried away by activity and experience overheating and breathing difficulty.They need minimal exercise. Regarding grooming, clean their face creases and brush their fur weekly.When it comes to living a healthy and purposeful life, older adults may need more than pets. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of Arlington home care service. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping. Call Home Care Assistance today at (817) 591-1580 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.