When looking to adopt a dog, instead of looking for a newborn pup, how about making a home for a senior dog? Most of the older dogs in the shelters get overlooked because people prefer puppies, which is a pity because older dogs have their benefits too!
They’ll stay their current size, they have passed their hyperactive pup years, and they just waiting for someone to love. So consider adopting a senior dog — you could spend your golden years together.
Senior Dogs
When looking to adopt a dog, instead of looking for a newborn pup, how about making a home for a senior dog? Most of the older dogs in the shelters get overlooked because people prefer puppies, which is a pity because older dogs have their benefits too!
They'll stay their current size, they have passed their hyperactive pup years, and they just waiting for someone to love. So consider adopting a senior dog — you could spend your golden years together.
Yorkshire Terrier
If you’re in search of a small and gentle dog, then let's tell you more about the Yorkshire terrier. It can live up to 20 years, so it will be by your side for a long time as long as you take good care of it.
Yorkies are common in assisted living centers mainly because they are low-maintenance and don't need much grooming or exercise. They will be happy just being able to rest on your lap for most of the day.
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu has been called the ultimate family pet, as it can easily adapt to a large family, and bond with people of all ages.
It's a very confident and independent breed but still loves nothing more than spending quality time with its owners.
Pug
If you feel like you've worked hard most of your life and want to spend your retiree years chilling on the couch, then a Pug is the perfect companion. Relaxing is pretty much their favorite hobby.
Pugs make amazing pets for elderly people. They are smart, friendly, easy to maintain, and they easily adapt to almost any environment.
Poodle
Poodles are very popular among pensioners and for a good reason! It's one of the smartest dog breeds out there. You can have endless fun teaching them new tricks. And Poodles naturally have a loving and tender nature.
If you suffer from fur allergies, you're in for luck, because these lovable dogs are allergy-friendly.
Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound or 'Iggies' is the purest form of the Greyhound. It's energetic, slender, and muscular. The Greyhound's accentuated curved back gives it a royal appearance.
The Greyhound is the largest dog on our list, and despite being known as a swift racing hound, ironically it's also the laziest breed. It'll be happy to just relax on the couch for most of the day. Perhaps you can adopt one from a track near you!
West Highland Terrier
With seniors, Terriers seem to be a popular choice. The West Highland Terrier is one of the popular ones since it has a nice temperament and is a good lap dog.
Not to mention, this breed is suited for apartment living and only needs an hour of exercise every day. Despite having a soft fur coat, you won’t need to do too much grooming.
Biewer
You may be just discovering this unique breed, and you'll be happy you did. The Biewer is a relatively small dog, well, one of the smallest in fact, but its heart is huge.
Biewers are known for being very affectionate, clever, and playful. Despite its thick mane, it actually doesn't shed much. If taken good care of, it typically lives up to 14 years, so you'll have many years to spend together.
Pomeranian
If you’re looking for an affectionate and active dog, a Pomeranian could be a perfect fit for you! Their small size makes them great in small spaces like apartments, and even though it's fluffy, it hardly sheds, though you should brush it often.
And you’ll have no trouble training a Pomeranian because it's very intelligent.
Peekapoo
Yes, you read correctly, Peekapoos. You may not have heard of this breed, it's actually a crossbreed between two adorable dogs we've mentioned before, a Pekingese and a poodle! Like their parents, Peekapoos are smart, friendly, and affectionate dogs.
It's an excellent breed for people who suffer from allergies due to its coat that is allergy-friendly. If you have a backyard, you'll find it running around several times a day since it loves its exercise.
Japanese Spitz
This bundle of joy has fans all over the world. The Japanese Spitz is adaptable, friendly, and energetic. The breed's size ranges from small to medium making it suitable for both apartment and home living.
Because of its thick mane, it should be brushed at least twice a week. But once you own a Japanese Spitz you wouldn't mind even if you had to groom it daily.
Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier came to us from England, as its name suggests. The sweet, petite, and calm dog only needs a moderate amount of exercise and almost no grooming.
Manchester Terriers are known for being affectionate, cheerful, and well-behaved. So, if those are traits you're looking for in a dog then this one may be the one for you!
English Bulldog
The famous English Bulldog makes a great pet for people of all ages. Most people know that despite its tough appearance it's actually a very friendly dog, and they're very loyal to their owner.
Bulldogs can be pretty lazy, so be sure to take your pup out a few times daily, and watch its diet. Hey, same for you! Diet and exercise are key to pretty much anything.
Golden Retriever
Much like Labradors, Golden Retrievers are extremely friendly and clever dogs that are easy to train. They also have high emotional intelligence and are very attuned to humans’ emotional needs.
However, they need lots of exercise, so you'd love to have one if you live a more active lifestyle, or have enough space for it to roam. Golden Retrievers thrive on companionship and have a lot of patience. You'd be one lucky person to own one.
Papillon (Continental Toy Spaniel)
Being a 'Toy' breed, Papillons are petite and easy to bathe and transport. In fact, you may have even seen one in women's purses.
Papillons are very intelligent, so you'll have no trouble training one. And it's very fun, some would even call it silly. This breed can be quite possessive of their owners, so it’s best to not have any other pets around.
Japanese Spaniel
Japanese Spaniels, also known as Japanese chins are dignified yet silly dogs, that'll keep you entertained during your newfound free time.
It's relatively low-maintenance as you only have to brush it about once a week, and this breed doesn’t bark as much as other dogs which is a plus if you have sensitive neighbors.
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers, also known as Labs, are famous for being affectionate and intelligent dogs, and rightfully so. The qualities of Labs make them great companions for senior citizens as long as they are provided the exercise they need.
However, this breed is rather large and should not be cooped up in a small apartment. So, if you have a nice-sized yard, they’ll be ecstatic. Labradors are very loving and loyal and will be great at performing watchdog duty.
Sealyham Terrier
The classic Sealyham Terrier, also known as the Welsh Border Terrier, shows off a lush wavy coat that comes in different shades. It can grow up to weigh around 24 pounds.
This breed is suitable for seniors who enjoy their sofa time as these pups don’t require as much exercise compared to other dog breeds.
Irish Terrier
As its name implies, this breed originates in Ireland. While the Irish Terrier is known for being aggressive it's actually a great dog breed for older adults.
It's loyal and independent, and if you happen to be the active type, this dog will make a great companion.
Chinese Crested
The eerie-looking Chinese Crested requires no grooming at all unlike most of the dogs on our list. However, one thing different about this breed is that you will need to care for its exposed skin.
Chinese Cresteds have a moderate amount of energy but are also more than happy to sit quietly and chill with their owners.
Keeshond
If it's fluffiness that you’re looking for in a domesticated companion, then look no further than the Keeshond. Say hello to this fluffy, four-legged cloud. This is a unique-looking dog that has an impressive gray mane.
It's known for being obedient, clever, playful, and quick, so with traits like this, you're in for an entertaining ride getting to know and raise one of these furry fellas.
Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are known for being very clingy to their owners. So once this domesticated companion falls in love with you, you'll have trouble keeping it out of your lap!
This breed may feel overwhelmed by young children and tend to prefer the company of older people. Brussels Griffons are affectionate and relaxed, so one of these just may be The One for you.
Mixed Breeds
You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on a purebred dog. Why not adopt a mixed-bred dog from your local shelter?
Mutts have benefits of their own — they usually experience fewer health problems and live longer than pure-bred pups. And you'll enjoy the best qualities of their parent's breed.
Shih Tzu
Originating from China, Shih Tzus, also called ‘Lion Dogs’, are wonderful for seniors. These pups are loyal, friendly, and pretty relaxed, as they don't require too much exercise. And the best part is that they love to snuggle.
Surprisingly, despite their (small) size, Shih Tzus make for good guard dogs, and will gladly take the watch for you whether you live in an apartment or a duplex — they can adapt to any lifestyle!
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are often described as couch potatoes because they just love chilling and can spend all their time lying next to their owner. These Terriers have wonderful personalities making them great dogs for people of any age.
Seniors love this breed especially, because of its easy grooming requirements and relaxed nature. What's not to love?
Cairn Terrier
This one may look very familiar to you because Toto from "The Wizard of Oz" was a Cairn Terrier! These dogs aren’t just great actors, but great companions as well.
It's said that it can be stubborn at times, but these Terriers are also friendly, cheerful, and love to socialize. So they do well with an owner who’s firm yet affectionate.
Maltese
Like the Havanese (also featured on this list), the Maltese is a breed that is low-maintenance and sweet-natured. They require less grooming and exercise and love their cuddle time.
Maltese adjusts well to smaller spaces like apartments. Plus, did you know that they are often used as therapy dogs because of their calm personality?
Bolognese
Another breed that seniors would love is Bolognese. Its plush-like fur won't leave traces all around the house like other breeds, so that's great news for housekeeping. The Bolognese is also a very intelligent breed and easy to train as well.
It also has a naturally calm demeanor, so, if you're in search of a house pup, this could be the ideal breed for you!
Pekingese
Originating from China, the regal appearance of the Pekingese is the reason it has millions of fans around the world. While its Chinese ancestor is the "lion dog," in nature, it's not lion-like at all. In fact, it is the ultimate lapdog.
Pekingese are loyal, independent, and affectionate, and they don't need much exercise, only 30 minutes a day is enough to keep pups of this breed healthy. You could spend hours just brushing its gorgeous mane while it sits in your lap.
Chinese Shar-Pei
If you’re a pensioner who isn't such a fab of lapdogs and prefers a real beast, then the Shar-Pei may be the perfect breed for you. Plus, it's one of the easiest to train!
Shar-Peis are loyal to their owners and are not too fond of strangers, so they make for great watchdogs. In fact, they were used as fighting dogs. It's a very independent breed, making it a good choice for owners who leave the house for long periods of time.
Lowchen
The Lowchen originates from France and Germany and comes in an array of colors like brown, black, red, and even silver.
It can grow to be about 13 lbs. so if you prefer a small dog that is also alert, then a Lowchen may be the breed for you.
Xoloitzcuintli
This unique dog breed comes from Mexico and is also called also known as the Mexican hairless dog. It's one of many breeds of hairless dogs and comes in a variety of colors.
Being bred for thousands of years, this breed is not as prone to health problems as others. Its personality is happy, friendly, alert, and they only need a moderate amount of exercise.
Miniature Pinscher
The Minature Pinscher is one affectionate tiny dog that would make a great friend for seniors who are looking for a feisty little companion. Miniature Pinschers are playful, curious, and independent. This breed shows limitless affection to its family but can be wary of strangers.
One thing to keep in mind is that it requires a lot of activity, but because of its size, that can be done indoors or outdoors. It also isn’t too fond of cold weather.
Dachshund
Dachshunds or ‘weiner dogs’ are cheerful little dogs with a big personality. They love their playtime and grow to be very attached to their owner. So get your tennis balls ready to play lots of games of fetch.
They’re great in small apartments and require minimum grooming. Get ready to be amused by their silly antics.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
A breed that originated from the United Kingdom is the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. It was bred as a hunter's assistant. Don't let that be offputting because its personality is golden! It's very affectionate, loyal, and very sociable.
In fact, Dandie Dinmont Terriers thrive on the attention! You will also admire its intelligence, which makes it easy to train.
Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are one of the more popular breeds on our list, and its popularity is totally justified! It's full of personality and has a reputation for being mischievous at times. But that's only when you don't give them enough attention.
This breed of Terrier also makes for an excellent watchdog since they usually are very alert. This breed would be happiest with seniors who are active and enjoy exercising.
Otterhound
For some reason, the Otterhound doesn’t get as much publicity, so you may not be familiar with this exquisite breed. Still, it's such a great companion for seniors we had to introduce it to you.
If you're pretty active during the day or want to become so, you'll love an Otterhound because it'll always be happy to go out for a stroll. It's also very intelligent, loyal, independent, and loving, you'll wonder how you lived your whole life without one by your side.
Schipperke
Schipperke is another dog breed that would make a fantastic pet for more active seniors. They have an average lifespan of 15 years and are very lively and playful.
These loveable dogs do, however, require that you devote some time to training them. But if you're a pensioner, you probably won't mind that at all. Since they grow to weigh around 12-18 lbs, they’re suitable for both a nice-sized apartment and a house.
Skye Terrier
If you like to spend a lot of your free time outdoors, then the Skye Terrier may be the breed for you! You could spend time together at the park showing off its lovely bangs.
If you happen to be a cat owner, this isn’t the dog for you, as Skye Terriers don't generally like cats. Otherwise, it's very dependable and sociable and makes for a great pet for people of all ages.
Welsh Corgi Pembroke
With their huge ears and squat bodies, the Welsh Corgi Pembroke is nothing short of adorable. No wonder it used to be the late Queen of England's favorite pet. In fact, she's owned at least 30 of them.
They make great companions whether you live in a house or in an apartment — Corgis will fit just fine. However, keep in mind that it likes to move around, so it'll need plenty of exercise.
Beagle
Beagles are quite notorious for being noisy, but in fact, many senior care experts recommend this dog breed to them.
Beagles are very playful, which will keep their owners active, and will keep the grandkids entertained. You also won't have to constantly be sweeping up fur and it requires minimal grooming.
Havanese
Havanese is another breed seniors would appreciate. It's small, playful, and sharp. And it only needs a moderate amount of exercise a day. Havanese just adore their owners, so you'll have one cute clingy pet at your legs.
Its abundant thick fur is fairly easy to maintain with regular brushing. Fun fact, Havanese is the national dog of Cuba!
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer can often be seen in big cities. While it's an active breed that needs plenty of exercise, it's very sweet and gentle.
These Schnauzers will also need some routine grooming in order to keep their coat clean and healthy.
Goldendoodle
When combining two affectionate dog breeds, it's hard to compete with the Goldendoodle. The breed is a mix between a poodle and a Golden Retriever, so you can just imagine what a gorgeous dog this is.
If you are not the outdoorsy type then we wouldn't recommend this breed to you because the playful Goldendoodle needs plenty of exercise, and should be taken outside rather often.
Chihuahua
The popular Chihuahua is known for being tiny but mighty. This faithful companion loves sitting in your lap and is very loyal to its owners. The long-coated Chihuahuas are super cute, and despite the extra fur, they require minimal grooming.
And because they don't require much exercise, short walks are perfect for them. Believe us, they'll get enough physical activity just by jumping up and down your lap.
Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier can be a great option for seniors who aren't very active since it doesn’t require much exercise or grooming. Another advantage is that it is fairly easy to train.
The little dog is spirited, playful, and very loyal. Because this breed is so intelligent, you'd want to provide it with plenty of mental stimulation.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a great dog to own at any age. This ancient breed has been making a great companion literally for centuries.
The average life span of the Lhasa Apso is 14 years, so you'll have plenty of years of quality time.
American Eskimo Toy
This small toy dog has a pretty impressive mane. The American Eskimo Toy is a sub-breed of the smallest type of American Eskimo. They’re super cute and petite and weigh about 7-8 lbs as adults.
It's a very affectionate and adaptable breed that's fairly easy to train and bond with. The only con that we can think of when it comes to this adorable pup is the shedding that comes along with its admirable mane.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small and fluffy dog breed, that is happy, affectionate, and relatively easy to train. It can weigh anywhere between 7 and 12 lbs, making it compact and easy to raise in nearly any living condition.
They do need to be groomed every now and then and require a moderate amount of daily exercise, but otherwise, it's a pretty low-maintenance breed. It could become your new best friend!
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
With a name like 'Cavalier King Charles Spaniel,' it's no surprise that this breed has been a royal family favorite for centuries.
It makes a great house dog, as it usually doesn’t grow past 18 lbs. And this breed is so affectionate, intelligent, and endearingly devoted, that it'll conquer your heart in an instant.
French Bulldog
These pups may look tough, but in actuality, French bulldogs are tenderhearted and loveable! According to experts, this is one of the most loving and lively dog breeds one can own.
If you prefer smaller dogs or just live in a modestly-sized apartment Frech Bulldogs don't take up much space at all. And like Terriers, it too doesn't need much exercise or grooming.
Icelandic Sheepdog
Introduced to Iceland by the Vikings, the Icelandic Sheepdog has a soft, straight, and fluffy coat, which naturally comes with a bit of shedding.
If you don't mind sweeping up behind these cute pups you'll enjoy how clever and playful they are, and your grandchildren surely will as well.
Cocker Spaniel
Another Spaniel on our list is the Cocker Spaniel! Although it's popular as a children-friendly dog, it actually has the perfect temperament for seniors.
It does require a bit more grooming than other breeds we mentioned, but Spaniels are so lovable that their owners just take it as more quality time.
Welsh Terrier
The Welsh Terrier was bred for hunting, so you can imagine why it has a lot of energy and independent nature.
This breed could be a great option for active and able seniors because of its playfulness, spirit, and cleverness. It will keep you up and about and entertained. Your grandkids will fall in love with this breed instantly.
Scottish Terrier
If you're looking for a dog that will keep you active, a Scottish Terrier could be your new workout buddy. It's a fan of long walks, not so much fast running though.
This breed adjusts well to apartment and house living. Also, don't let their size fool you — they make for good guard dogs.
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are easygoing and affectionate, and once one of them falls in love with you, it'll be shadowing you closely. Don't let their 'down' faces fool you, these pups are fun and playful.
You’ll just have to sure you get your Hound enough exercise because it tends to put on weight which isn't healthy for any dog.
Saluki
Salukis are known to be content to lounge for hours; still, they need daily exercise. They are devoted but tend not to be demonstrative. They can be gentle with children and relish sitting by your side.
These dogs are not well-suited for a small space and don't fare well when left home alone all day; they need space to roam, preferably in a yard with a high fence as they tend to get quite big and can scale a fence.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a dog that comes from ancient China, with an air of mysterious timelessness. Dignified, serious-minded, and sometimes aloof, the Chow Chow is a breed of unique delights. Owners say Chow Chows are the cleanest of dogs as they housebreak easily and are known to be as careful as cats.
Well-socialized Chow Chows are never fierce or intractable but constantly behave in a refined manner. They are reserved with strangers and endlessly loyal to loved ones.
Rat Terrier
This is an original American breed with a name said to be coined by Teddy Roosevelt. The Rat Terrier is a sturdy, smooth-coated exterminator pup. They're excellent lap dogs but also need some exercise to stay happy.
The breed comes in two size types and is happy-go-lucky, playful, and portable companions. The Rat Terrier was first bred for ratting and farm work.
Wire Fox Terrier
The Wire Fox Terrier standard breed is known for being "on the tip-toe of expectation at the slightest provocation."
They were once a mainstay of traditional British foxhunts, but today's Wire is a handsome and amusing companion and a master show dog for those who'd like to pursue a new hobby in their retirement.
The Docker
Dockers are bred from Dachshunds and Cocker Spaniels. They may be smaller in appearance than some super-sized breeds, but they can still be fierce and they make a great choice for watchdogs. Dockers are known to be sociable dogs, and they make a good addition to the family.
Dockers like to be active, and they make good companions for people who like to do a lot of outdoor activities. These guys are incredibly sweet and will do anything to keep the peace in their household.
Border Terrier
Fans of the upbeat and agile Border Terrier cherish this breed’s reputation as a tough, no-frills working terrier. These spirited, playful, and affectionate dogs are popular pets in towns and the countryside.
The wiry coat is an easy keeper. Bred to be country dogs, Borders adapt well to city life as long as they get enough exercise.
The Jarkie
Jarkies are tiny little balls of energy that were created from a Japanese Chin and a Yorkshire Terrier. Like most dogs, they really don’t fare well around small children, though they are great for families with older children who are well-behaved and will respect them.
Jarkies are great companions for seniors and for those living in apartments and small homes. Although they’re very playful, they’re also content just sitting on your lap and watching television. Of course, they still need to get out every day, and they love taking trips to the park with their humans!
The Morkie
Morkies are a tiny little combination of the Yorkshire Terrier and the Maltese. The cross of those two small balls of fur results in this adorable little fluffy thing. Morkies are known to have very playful personalities and often have a lot of energy. This breed gets attached to their owners, which can lead to separation anxiety if they have to be left home by themselves. They do best in environments where they will get the attention that they need.
Morkies are said to be intelligent, but hard-headed when it comes to training them. Keep plenty of treats on hand to make sure your Morkie stays motivated. They make the perfect companions to snuggle with while you watch your favorite shows at night.
Bedlington Terriers
Graceful terriers in wooly clothing, Bedlington Terriers, named for the English mining shire where they were first bred, are pleasant companions. They are also alert watchdogs and cuddly TV-time companions.
Jolly and cheerful, Bedlingtons want most to be their family’s center of attention. If you're looking for a no-shedding, lively, and loyal companion, your search might end here.
Coton de Tulear
For the bright and beloved Coton de Tulear, the perfect day consists just of doing nothing but being close to their humans.
Whether they are lying at your feet while you work, following you from room to room (not even the bathroom is off-limits), or going for a ride in the car, Cotons love being close to their families like Velcro.
Norwich Terrier
Norwich Terriers are fearless dogs named after their hometown in England. The old cliché “a big dog in a small package” was coined for breeds like the Norwich, who can be unaware that they are just 10 inches tall.
Happy-go-lucky, fearless, and sometimes even bossy, Norwich Terriers are energetic enough to play all day, but affectionate enough to enjoy hours of lap time with their favorite human.
Australian Silky Terrier
Small but not weak, feisty but not yappy, pretty but not sculpted, Silky Terriers are 10-inch-tall energetic dogs, animated by curiosity and high spirits.
They are a charming member of the Toy Club. Silky Terriers are compact and glossy-coated, but still true terriers of lively spirits. The Silky, although a native of Sydney, Australia, is larger than his close cousin, the Yorkshire Terrier.
Toy Poodle
Despite their tiny size, Toy Poodles stand proudly among Dogdom’s aristocrats. Beneath their curly, low-allergen coat lies an elegant and athletic companion for all reasons and seasons.
Forget the old stereotypes of Poodles as pampered dogs. Poodles are eager and incredibly smart dogs of remarkable versatility.
The Pomapoo
The Pomapoo is a sweet, often shy cross between a Pomeranian and a Poodle. Pomapoos love to play, but they’re also content laying on the couch with you after a hard day at work. Their Pomeranian side gifts them with their gentle personality, while the Poodle in them lends to their high levels of intelligence.
They are said to be great dogs for seniors, but they don’t do too well around young children who may be a little rough with them. Pomapoos are also known as a “teddy bear dog,” and are fiercely loyal to their people. This breed has actually been around for quite some time but has gained more popularity over the past couple of decades.
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, also known as the Sheltie, is an extremely clever, alert, and obedient herder dog from Scotland’s remote and rugged Shetland Islands.
Shelties bear a strong family resemblance to their bigger cousin, the Collie. Bright and keen Shelties are easily trained but they are also sensitive and affectionate family dogs, highly in tune with the mood of the household.
Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier, also known as the “Holy Dog of Tibet,” was a watchdog and companion in ancient Buddhist monasteries. A profusely coated, small-to-medium-sized dog with “snowshoe” feet, this breed is affectionate, sensitive, and clever.
Their name only gets it half right: Tibetan Terriers are Tibetan, but they’re not true terriers — not by blood or temperament. They were carelessly given the name “terrier” to this typically Asian dog, and it stuck.
The Yorkipoo
Yorkipoos are small dogs with big personalities. They are a cross between Yorkshire Terriers and Poodles and are known to have a lot of energy and passion for playtime. These guys can be pretty vocal, so keep that in mind as you’re searching for the perfect breed.
Yorkipoos, who are also sometimes called “Yoodles,” are fiercely loyal to their owners, and aren’t particularly fond of strangers. They can be stubborn, but they are very intelligent and easy to train once you’ve gotten past that. Yorkipoos are great for those that live in smaller environments.
Russian Toy
The Russian Toy is a small, lively dog. This breed loves to snuggle and be close to their human companions, although sometimes slightly aloof to strangers.
Some of them will dash through the house or yard chasing toys as long as you can keep up, while others are willing to do nothing more than lounge in your lap all day long, content in knowing that they are the prize jewel in your home. They thrive on human companionship and will let you know if they are feeling neglected.
Cavachon
Cavachons are bred down from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and are mixed with a Bichon Frise. They’re small and spunky and love to have fun with their families, whether it means going for walks or hanging out in the living room.
Because of their small stature, they do well for those who live in houses or apartments.
The Chiweenie
Chiweenies, AKA Chiwees, are short, stubby little mixes of a Chihuahua and a Dachshund. They’re even sometimes referred to as “Mexican Hotdogs.” Chiweenies tend to be very playful, so they do need attention and exercise, but since they’re so small they also make great pets for seniors.
One thing to remember, though, is that these dogs tend to be a pretty vocal breed, so expect a lot of barking from your little pooch – it just goes to show how much they love you, and they want to alert you to any potential threats to keep you safe! Chiweenies are loyal and loving and enjoy spending most of their time by their people’s sides!
The Maltipoo
This doggo is a mix of a Poodle with a Maltese. Aside from Poodles being incredibly smart, they’ve also got a great coat of fur that is low maintenance and doesn’t shed. Malteses are also known for their coat, which has even been referred to as a “lion mane” for how long and luxurious it is.
When combined, you get this adorable, soft little ball of fluff. Maltipoos are known for being easy to train and get along with, and they can be great dogs for seniors. They’re also especially great for cuddles since they fit nicely on your lap!
The Maltese Shih Tzu
They should really work on coming up with a more creative name for this breed, which is a mix of a Maltese and a Shih Tzu. Why hasn’t anyone started calling these guys Maltzus or something? This breed is known for being very gentle and kind-natured.
Maltzus love to play, and they need to get exercise like all other dog breeds. However, they’re fairly low energy and, since they’re small, they do better in smaller homes or apartments than their larger brethren. Plus, did we mention how freakin’ cute they are?
The Poochin
Poochins, also known as Chinpoos, Doodlechins, and Chindoodles, are an adorable mix of a Poodle and a Japanese Chin. These dogs are known to be very laid-back and easy to train, which makes them a great family pet or a good choice for retirees.
They often have wonderful personalities but should be introduced to other animals from a young age. Poochins can also demonstrate dominant behavior if you don’t train them properly and clearly establish yourself as the boss from the start. These little guys only grow to an average of about 5-12 pounds, but they can have a very mighty attitude!
The Cairnoodle
Cairnoodles are a cross between a Poodle and a Cairn Terrier. They’re also referred to sometimes as Cairnpoos, Cairnpoodles, and Poocans. These guys are loving and affectionate and love to stay by their owner’s side, but they’ve also got the stubbornness that comes along with most terriers. Because of this, it’s wise to start obedience training with them when they are puppies.
Cairnoodles are the ultimate cuddle buddies, even for those with allergies, thanks to their hypoallergenic coat. They tend to suffer from separation anxiety when their people leave them for too long, so they either need to be crate trained, or with someone who will be there most of the time. This breed is descended from two others who are highly intelligent, so they’re very smart and easy to train.
Cockapoo
These designer dogs are a cross between a Poodle and a Cocker Spaniel and are known for being particularly sweet (and small.)
If you’re looking for a dog that does well in a smaller space, the Cockapoo should definitely be on your list of considerations! They’re smart, loyal, and love their families.
The Schnoodle
Mixed-breeds have the most adorable names! Case in point: The Schnoodle. Schnoodles are a cross between Poodles and Miniature Schnauzers, and they are unbelievably sweet. This breed takes on a loyal, gentle nature from their Poodle side while adopting the bold characteristic of the Schnauzer.
Schnoodles are also known for their soft, silky coat that is less prone to excess shedding than other breeds. They are also said to be terrific guard dogs, thanks to their attentive inherited nature. The Schnoodle is a very smart dog that can learn things very quickly.
The Shichi
This little ball of fluff is a Shichi. It’s a combination of a Shih Tzu and a Chihuahua. They are toy-sized and adorable, with long fur that requires lots of love. This breed is a wonderful example of a tiny dog with a huge personality. They’ve been known to have “small dog syndrome,” where they think they’re bigger than they really are. But thanks to this, they make great guard dogs and are super loyal to their owners.
They can also be very cuddly and love to curl up on your chest and watch movies. Shichis are very sweet, and small, and should be guarded from rowdy children and larger animals. They do best in a home where they will receive plenty of attention and care.
The Beagi
Beagis are a combination of a Beagle, and either a Pembroke or a Welsh Corgi. These guys have short little legs and often have silly personalities. They’re said to be incredibly smart and easy to train, although they also tend to be pretty stubborn. They’re great around people and usually have sweet dispositions. This makes them a great choice for seniors.
Beagis, while they still need their exercise, make a good dog for those who live in smaller spaces. Since they are bred from hunting dogs, they do tend to chase smaller pets in the household. Beagis are also said to be generally healthy and live fairly long lives.