The Best Dog Breeds For Older Adults, According To Reddit

While there are plenty of challenges that older adults can face, retirement can also bring a much-needed break and a chance to start enjoying life. This can be as luxurious as traveling to new locations or as rewarding as bringing a new pet into a home to find that unique companionship they may not have had time to nurture before. Of course, not many older adults will be looking for the excitement of a puppy or a breed that requires high maintenance; instead, they may want a pet that can adapt to the lifestyle of a retiree.

Thankfully, Reddit users recommend several breeds, both big and small, ideal for older adults whether they are active or less mobile. Still, those looking should consider how to adopt a dog that best fits their needs, including finding a friend in need at a shelter. These breeds are a great starting point, but each canine is just as unique as its owner, and deciding 'the best' of any breed can always be situational and subjective. We relied on the advice given by Redditors, pulling from their personal experiences or how a breed acted, and crosschecked their advice with breed info sites.

While the greyhound is often known for how fast they can run, they are quite mellow and affectionate outside their short bursts of energy. One of the best parts for older adults worried about budgetary restraints is that the greyhound is generally healthy and requires minimal grooming, making it manageable and affordable. Because greyhounds can live in an apartment, the breed is perfect for those who can take it to a nearby dog park to burn off energy and then just enjoy its naturally calm and affectionate nature at home.

The greyhound matches well with medium-activity-level older adults who still want to get outside and spend time with their dog but primarily focus on potential emotional companionship. In a Reddit thread about the best pets for older adults, one user emphasized how great an older greyhound can be as a pet, stating, "Retired greyhounds are a great bet. Fully adult so a bit more chill, and they tend to be quite lazy chilled dogs anyway. Short, fine coat so minimal grooming required."

In the same thread, others recommend the whippet or Italian greyhound for those looking for a smaller yet similar dog. One user emphasized "Instead of a full-sized greyhound, I would go with either an Italian greyhound or a whippet. Both are a smaller size that would be easier for older people to carry if needed."

A mini schnauzer is excellent for a small family or a single older adult, as the dog's affectionate nature, loyalty, and high intelligence make it an easy-to-train and loving friend. Mini schnauzers require a moderate amount of exercise — at least an hour a day, putting them on the lower end of the activity needed to keep them content. Mental puzzles can also go a long way in keeping this breed stimulated in a lower-activity household. No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the schnauzer is a good option for those with allergies, though their double coat shouldn't be shaved and will need some care. 

In a Reddit thread, an older individual asked about the potential challenges of having a mini schnauzer puppy. Various users responded with their parents' experiences. One user said, "My mom got a mini-schnauzer puppy at 76, and it's re-invigorated her. She walks a lot more, and it has improved her mood." Another user chimed in when discussing the prospect of a puppy versus an older mini schnauzer, saying, "My parents are in their seventies and they have a six-month-old miniature schnauzer. He is very active but they love him. And I don't think they've had any problems with their age and his activity level."

While a potential owner will need to deal with an abundance of energy when considering a standard poodle, the trade-off is that these dogs are minimal shedders and are considered generally healthy. Training also comes naturally for the intelligent poodle, who is always eager to please their caretakers. Those who don't have the space or energy to care for a standard poodle can consider a miniature or toy version, both of which require less exercise — 30 to 60 minutes compared to a standard's 1 to 2 hours — and can thrive in an apartment if they are kept stimulated and busy.

In a Reddit thread asking for advice about the compatibility of poodles with older adults and their general safety around others, users chimed in, with one saying, "Poodles are good to walk. They're easy and they're extremely bright and loving. It's a great dog for elder people."

One user, touching on the original poster's concerns about activity in the breed, emphasized, "The only issue with poodles is they are so intelligent, you have to work to give them some mental stimulation." Without it, you may find your poodle becomes destructive. Luckily, mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys like the Dr. Catch Food Puzzle Feeder, can keep them occupied.

The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is ideal for older adults whose most significant concern is finding an emotionally supportive pup. Originally bred to entertain and help warm the laps of royalty, this breed thrives on building close connections with its caretaker. Despite its luxurious origins, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel still needs moderate exercise and mental stimulation, but playing together will be rewarded by a long rest together on the couch. Those with budgetary issues should know that the breed is prone to various health problems, and requires regular bathing and grooming.

Depression and anxiety can occur at any age, but older adults can face unique challenges due to loneliness that can lead to various mental health issues. A Reddit thread discussed if the breed was good for mental health. Many users spoke about how great a Cavalier King Charles spaniel can be as a comforting companion. One highlighted the dog's adaptability to their mood and energy levels, saying, "I brought my Cavalier home a year and a half ago and she's made a profound difference for my mental health." If you're looking for a snuggly companion, this pup certainly has oodles of love to share. 

No matter what breed you choose, taking into consideration your own needs, the needs of your potential pup, and how you might work together can ensure you have a happy companion well into both of your golden years.

The methodology for these results involved browsing through Reddit and finding advice given or asked regarding the best breeds for older adults. At the same time, we also looked at possible concerns that older adults could face, such as loneliness, to find a breed that fits those specific requirements while still being manageable for those with a less active lifestyle. Various breed-specific websites, as well as veterinary health sites, were used to confirm breed and health information.