Those who live alone often battle loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Senior citizens who have lost spouses and friends tend to self-isolate, thinking that there is no one left close to them. This way of thinking can be very difficult to process – and very dangerous if the senior starts to spiral into deep sadness. You can help the senior in your life combat isolation, including scheduling regular visits and assisting with transportation to events they enjoy. But if they are able to care for a pet, companion dogs may represent one of the best (and cutest) solutions.

Not every senior can consider a dog – some may not be able to care for them effectively, including making sure that they get daily walks. But older adults who live in an assisted living or another type of senior residence should check with the administrative staff to see if pets are allowed in the facility.

Best Companion Dogs for Senior Citizens

Many different breeds of companion dogs would be ideal for elderly adults. Some of the best choices include:

Pembroke Welsh Corgis: If you are a very active senior, your corgi will be happy to go on all your adventures. They are friendly and calm (even in public) and not only love exercise – they need it. So if you love taking long daily walks, this dog will be very happy.
Bichon Frise: If your senior hates the idea of hair and fur everywhere, these little non-shedding dogs are perfectly suited for them. Elderly adults who can take short walks will be able to keep the bichon frise adequately active, but the truth is that they will love to mostly sit on your lap.
Shih Tzu: These little lap dogs are divas, so if you want to shower your companion with affection and groom them throughout the day, consider adopting a Shih Tzu!
French Bulldog: Don’t let their grumpy face fool you – these bulldogs love to cuddle! For a senior craving the engagement that companion dogs offer, the French bulldog will make a perfect furry friend.
German Shepherd: Many adults might be intimidated by this large breed, but they are intensely loyal animals who can also provide protection for seniors living alone. German Shepherds are also very active and need ample exercise, so be sure to have the ability to accommodate that need.
Cocker Spaniel: These companion dogs are very gentle and love their humans. They need a bit of exercise, but not much. Mostly they are low-maintenance dogs who love hanging out on the couch with you.
Golden Retriever: These dogs are an excellent option for active seniors because they are gentle, affectionate, and have a coat that needs little maintenance. Because they are active, they will require daily exercise. If the senior dog owner is healthy and active, having a golden retriever is a great way to stay in shape and keep moving.
Labrador Retriever: This is another type of retriever that make great companion dogs for active elderly adults because they have a calm disposition and are very loyal and friendly. Like their golden cousins, labradors are very active and will need an owner who can exercise them regularly.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: These small dogs with the impressive and regal name are another great option for seniors who need companionship because they are very amicable and have a calm, reserved and measured temperament. One downside to these calm cuties – they will need a lot of grooming. But for seniors who want to spoil a little dog in their lap, these Spaniels are wonderful.
Boston Terrier: These little companion dogs are typically very easy to take care of, as well as being very friendly. They make excellent companion dogs for seniors who can’t be as active, as the dog needs less exercise than many others on this list.