Best dog breeds for older people
Manageable size, low energy and a docile temperament for easy day-to-day living.
For an older person, the right dog is the one they can handle without strain: one that doesn't pull on the lead, doesn't need daily runs and is steady enough not to cause falls.
This list favours contained size, low energy and ease of handling. It is also worth thinking about the dog's life expectancy and who would take over if needed: an uncomfortable conversation, but a necessary one before adopting.
Top 24 breeds
- 1. Bolognese 80%
- 2. Cesky Terrier 75%
- 3. Chi-Poo 75%
- 4. Chihuahua 75%
- 5. Havanese 75%
- 6. Lowchen 75%
- 7. Maltese 75%
- 8. Maltipoo 75%
- 9. Norfolk Terrier 75%
- 10. Papillon 75%
- 11. Pekingese 75%
- 12. Pomapoo 75%
- 13. Pomeranian 75%
- 14. Shetland Sheepdog 75%
- 15. Shih Tzu 75%
- 16. Tibetan Spaniel 75%
- 17. Bull Terrier 70%
- 18. Bulldog 70%
- 19. Cardigan Welsh Corgi 70%
- 20. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 70%
- 21. Cavapoo 70%
- 22. Chigi 70%
- 23. Chinese Crested 70%
- 24. Chipin 70%
The percentage shows how well each breed matches the criteria of this guide, not how "good" the breed is.
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- Best dog breeds for apartment living Breeds that cope well with a flat: moderate size, moderate energy and little barking.
- Best dog breeds for families with children Breeds that are affectionate with the family, tolerant with children and sociable with other dogs.
- Best dog breeds for first-time owners Breeds suited to people who have never had a dog: easy to train and forgiving of mistakes.
- Dog breeds that shed very little Breeds with minimal shedding and little drooling, for people who don't want hair everywhere.
- Dog breeds that tolerate being left alone More independent breeds, for people who are out of the house during the day.
- Calm, quiet dog breeds Low-energy breeds that bark little, ideal where neighbours are close.
- Best dog breeds for runners and active people Breeds with the energy and stamina for running, hiking or dog sports.
- Easiest dog breeds to train Breeds that learn quickly and respond well to training.
- Dog breeds that handle hot weather well Breeds adapted to hard summers.
- Best guard dog breeds Territorial, protective breeds suited to guarding with an experienced owner.
- Dog breeds that get on well with other dogs Sociable breeds, for homes that already have a dog or for regular dog-park visitors.