It can really make a difference in your life when you have a cute furry friend waiting for you at home. Seniors often face social isolation, and a pet may be just what they need to maintain their well-being. If your elderly loved one is looking for entertainment or someone to keep them company, a dog is a perfect choice!
Temperament: loyal, affectionate, outgoing
Height: 9-10.5 in
Weight: 9-16 lbs
Life expectancy: 10-18 yrs
Shih Tzu is a popular breed for its loving energy and beautiful fur! Their small size makes them great lap dogs and perfect for tight living situations. Shih Tzus are also great with children and are family-friendly. They are a little stubborn but otherwise are easy to handle!
Temperament: playful, affectionate, mischievous
Height: 10-13 in
Weight: 14-18 lbs
Life expectancy: 13-15 yrs
Pugs are affectionate dogs known for their enthusiastic, almost human-like facial expressions. They are quite strong dogs despite their petite size. They tend to overeat so be sure to keep an eye on their weight. One of the perks of being a pug owner has to be their minimal grooming needs.
Temperament: sassy, charming, comical
Height: 5-8 in
Weight: under 6 lbs
Life expectancy: 14-16 yrs
Chihuahuas are small in size but big in personality! If you want a small dog with the confident energy of a large dog, a Chihuahua is a great choice. They’re a playful and entertaining breed. However, since they are compact and small, they’re ideal for smaller living situations. They also get cold easily, so roughhousing is not suitable for them.
Temperament: gentle, attentive, affectionate, graceful
Height: 12-13 inches
Weight: 13-18 lbs
Life expectancy: 12-15 pounds
A Cavalier is an affectionate and adaptable breed. They’re playful and athletic dogs that enjoy being active. They are especially favored by those who love small companion dogs that can live in apartment living.
Temperament: affectionate, athletic, strong
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: up to 30 lbs
Life expectancy: 12-13 yrs
If you’re looking for a dog not too small or big, a corgi can make a great companion! Corgis are also smart dogs and easy to train. Since they are herding dogs by nature, they do require routine exercise such as daily walks.
Temperament: playful, curious, alert
Height: 9.5-11.5 in
Weight: 12-18 lbs
Life expectancy: 14-15 yrs
The Bichon is great for seniors who don’t have a lot of space in their homes. They’re small, fluffy dogs that get along with children and other animals. Their coats are hypoallergenic but need to be groomed regularly.
Temperament: playful, gentle
Height: 7-9 in
Weight: under 7 lbs
Life expectancy: 12-15 yrs
A Maltese is very similar to a Bichon. They’re little white lap dogs that are quite low maintenance. Maltese dogs enjoy spending time curled up in their owner’s lap and going on easy walks. You can even carry them around in your bag!
Temperament: bright, curious, high-spirited
Height: 15-17 in
Weight: 12-25 lbs
Life expectancy: 11-13 yrs
Boston Terriers make good family dogs! They’re a very playful and expressive breed. Their energies can change by their moods and personal temperaments. They are also great watch dogs but this does not mean they’re aggressive.
Temperament: loyal, charming, entertaining
Height: 10-11 in
Weight: 15-20 lbs
Life expectancy: 13-15 yrs
Westies make great companions! They’re quite small but not as delicate as the Maltese or Pomeranian. Overall, this dog breed is friendly and low maintenance.
Temperament: bright, curious, high-spirited
Height: 12-14 in
Weight: 11-20 lbs
Life expectancy: 12-15yrs
Originally bred as farm dogs, the Miniature schnauzer is an outgoing, strong breed. They make great watchdogs and are generally low-maintenance. They are also adaptable to different living situations. Their personalities vary greatly. Some are more extroverted than others.
Temperament: intelligent, active, faithful
Height: 15 in
Weight: 40-70 lbs
Life expectancy: 10-18yrs
The poodle has always been a popular choice! They are considered one of the smartest breeds. They learn fast and can adapt to all types of living environments. Their big, fluffy coats should be professionally groomed every month or two.
Temperament: cheerful, playful, intelligent
Height: 11-13 in
Weight: under 28 lbs
Life expectancy: 10-12 yrs
The French Bulldog is considered the most cheerful of all dog breeds. They enjoy being active and have high energy. However, they’re not athletic and lack endurance. Moderate daily exercise is ideal for this breed.
Temperament: happy, inquisitive, lively
Height: 6-7in
Weight: 3-7 lbs
Life expectancy: 12-16 yrs
A Pomeranian is often admired for its adorable fluffy coat. Who wouldn’t a fluffy little pooch you can carry around in your bag? Pomeranians are affectionate and enjoy their owner’s companionship.
Temperament: gentle, independent, sweet-tempered
Height: 13-15 in
Weight: 7-14 lbs
Life expectancy: 14-15 yrs
You may be surprised to see a racing dog on this list, however, Greyhounds are not as energetic as people think they are. While Greyhounds enjoy daily exercise, they also enjoy being couch potatoes and lounging with their owners. They usually are super responsive to training.
Temperament: cheerful, outgoing, intelligent
Height: 8.5-11.5 in
Weight: 7-13 lbs
Life expectancy: 14-16 yrs
The Havanese is a social, adaptable breed. Their size makes them great for city dwellers and their small living situations. Since they are quite extroverted, they don’t like to be left alone for too long. Their coats also require daily grooming.
Temperament: clever, loyal, happy
Height: 13-15 in
Weight: 20-30 lbs
Life expectancy: 10-15 yrs
Were you a fan of Snoopy? The Peanuts cartoon dog is a perfect example of how clever, curious, and happy Beagles are. They make great family dogs and are generally low-maintenance.
Temperament: affectionate, feisty, playful
Height: 7-8 in
Weight: 7 lbs
Life expectancy: 11-15 yrs
Yorkies are tiny but feisty! They can be loyal, protective, and a little bossy. They also require daily brushing and weekly baths. Overall, they are dedicated to being loving companions for seniors.
Whether they’re big or small, dogs are loving animals that can be extremely beneficial to aging adults. Once your loved one finds their perfect fit, they get to enjoy life with their forever furry friend. You can read more articles with 1+1 Cares to learn about pets and how to improve your loved one’s aging experience.
1+1 Cares is a referral agency that works for clients and caregivers. We match caregivers with clients and inform them of your requirements. We work for you so you and your loved one can have a safe, enjoyable caregiving experience.
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