I’ve been around dogs my whole life — Golden Retrievers that dragged me through mud puddles, a Border Collie who outsmarted me daily, and enough fosters to fill a small shelter. But the question I get most from my parents’ friends and neighbors? “Sarah, what dog should I get now that I’m retired?”
It’s a great question. And honestly, the answer isn’t the same as it was twenty years ago. Your lifestyle has shifted. Maybe your knees aren’t what they used to be. Maybe you’re on a fixed income and need to think about vet bills differently. None of that means you can’t have a wonderful dog — it just means picking the right one matters more than ever.
Research backs this up, too. Studies consistently show that dog ownership lowers blood pressure and reduces feelings of loneliness in older adults. A 2019 study in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that pet owners had better cardiovascular health markers overall. So this isn’t just about companionship. It’s genuinely good for you.
What Seniors Should Consider When Choosing a Dog
Before I run through my favorite low energy dog breeds for seniors, let’s talk about what actually matters when you’re making this choice. Because the cute factor is real — trust me, I know — but it shouldn’t be the only thing driving your decision.
Physical Demands and Mobility
This is the big one. A dog that needs two hours of vigorous exercise daily is going to be a problem if you have arthritis or balance issues. You want a breed that’s happy with a couple of short walks and some indoor playtime.
Size matters too. Can you physically pick the dog up if needed? If there’s an emergency, if the dog gets hurt on a walk, you need to be able to lift them. I generally recommend dogs under 30 pounds for most seniors, though there are exceptions. A 35-pound Cocker Spaniel with a calm temperament might work perfectly. A 12-pound Jack Russell that acts like it’s possessed? Not so much.
Think about leash pulling as well. Some small breeds are surprisingly strong pullers, and that’s a fall risk on uneven sidewalks.
Grooming Requirements
Here’s where people get tripped up. That gorgeous Shih Tzu with the floor-length show coat? That’s hours of grooming every week. But the same breed in a puppy cut? Totally manageable.
Every breed on my list below, I’ll note the grooming reality. Some need professional grooming every 6-8 weeks (budget $40-$80 per session). Others just need a weekly brush and occasional bath. Factor this into your decision — both the physical effort of grooming and the cost.
Veterinary Cost Considerations
I’m not going to sugarcoat this. Dogs are expensive. The average annual vet cost for a healthy dog runs $700-$1,500, and that jumps significantly for breeds prone to health issues. When you’re on a fixed income, a breed that’s likely to rack up $5,000 in surgery bills matters.
For each breed below, I’ll flag the common health concerns and give you a realistic cost range. Pet insurance is worth looking into — plans for older dogs typically run $30-$60/month, and they can save you thousands on unexpected emergencies.
10 Best Low-Energy Dogs for Seniors
I’ve ranked these based on a combination of temperament, exercise needs, grooming demands, and typical health costs. These are genuinely the best dogs for older adults who want a calm, loving companion without the chaos.
| Breed | Weight | Exercise Needs | Grooming Level | Avg. Annual Vet Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | 13-18 lbs | Low | Moderate | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Bichon Frise | 12-18 lbs | Low-Moderate | High | $800-$1,200 |
| Maltese | 4-7 lbs | Low | Moderate-High | $700-$1,100 |
| Shih Tzu | 9-16 lbs | Low | High (or low with clip) | $800-$1,300 |
| Pug | 14-18 lbs | Low | Low | $1,000-$1,800 |
| French Bulldog | 20-28 lbs | Low | Low | $1,200-$3,000 |
| Havanese | 7-13 lbs | Low-Moderate | High | $700-$1,000 |
| Miniature Schnauzer | 11-20 lbs | Moderate | Moderate | $800-$1,200 |
| Pembroke Welsh Corgi | 25-30 lbs | Moderate | Moderate | $900-$1,400 |
| Cocker Spaniel | 24-30 lbs | Moderate | High | $900-$1,500 |
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If I had to pick one breed that was practically designed for retired life, it’s the Cavalier. These dogs are gentle, affectionate, and completely happy spending the afternoon on the couch with you while you watch Jeopardy. They’ll follow you from room to room — not in a needy way, just because they genuinely like being near their person.
Exercise-wise, a 20-minute walk once or twice a day is plenty. They enjoy it, but they’re not going to destroy your house if you skip a day because the weather’s awful.
The catch: Cavaliers are prone to mitral valve disease, a heart condition that affects a significant percentage of the breed. This can mean expensive cardiology visits and medication. Get pet insurance early if you go this route, and always buy from a breeder who does cardiac testing. Budget on the higher end — $1,000 to $2,000 annually once they’re older. Despite the health concerns, their temperament is absolutely unmatched for seniors.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon is a happy little cotton ball of a dog, and I mean that in the best way. They’re cheerful, gentle, and — here’s the key thing — hypoallergenic. If allergies have kept you from getting a dog before, Bichons are a fantastic option.
They do need regular professional grooming, roughly every 4-6 weeks, to keep that coat from matting into a nightmare. That’s probably the biggest ongoing commitment. But their exercise needs? Minimal. A short walk and some play indoors keeps them perfectly content.
Personality-wise, Bichons are social butterflies. They do well in apartments, condos, and retirement communities. They’re not big barkers (unlike some small breeds I could name), and they’re friendly with everyone — visitors, other dogs, the mail carrier.
Cost-wise, they’re one of the more affordable breeds on this list. Generally healthy, with occasional knee issues (luxating patellas) being the main concern. $800-$1,200 per year at the vet is typical.
Maltese
Tiny but sturdy — that’s how I describe the Maltese. At 4-7 pounds, they’re one of the smallest breeds on this list, which is either a pro or a con depending on your situation. Pro: you can absolutely carry them anywhere, they’re fine in a small apartment, and they eat very little (your food bill will be minimal). Con: they’re fragile enough that you need to watch your step, and they’re not great if you have young grandkids visiting who play rough.
Maltese are incredibly devoted. My neighbor Margaret got one after her husband passed, and that little dog became her whole world. He sits on her lap while she reads, walks beside her to the mailbox, and sleeps curled up next to her every night. That kind of bond is exactly what a lot of seniors are looking for.
Grooming: kept in a short clip, it’s very manageable. Weekly brushing, a bath every couple weeks. Skip the show coat unless you genuinely enjoy grooming as a hobby.
Health is generally good. Dental issues are the main concern — small breeds tend to have crowded teeth. Budget for annual dental cleanings ($300-$500). Overall annual cost: $700-$1,100.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were literally bred to be lap dogs for Chinese royalty. They’ve had centuries of practice at sitting around looking adorable, and they’re very good at it.
I’ll be honest — the grooming can be a lot if you keep the coat long. But here’s the secret most Shih Tzu owners figure out fast: the puppy cut changes everything. A short all-over trim every 6-8 weeks, and your grooming between visits is basically just a quick brush. Done.
What I love about Shih Tzus for seniors is their adaptability. They don’t care if your house is 800 square feet or 3,000. They don’t care if you walked three miles today or just went to the kitchen and back. They’re happy if you’re happy. That easygoing nature is exactly what makes them one of the best calm dog breeds for retirees.
They can be a little stubborn about housetraining — fair warning. But once they’re past that stage (or if you adopt an adult), they’re absolute sweethearts. Annual vet costs: $800-$1,300. Watch for eye issues and breathing problems due to the flat face.
Pug
Pugs are comedians. There’s no other way to put it. If you want a dog that makes you laugh every single day, get a Pug.
They’re sturdy for their size (14-18 pounds), low energy, and content with minimal exercise. A short walk plus some indoor silliness covers their needs. They’re also incredibly social — Pugs love people, love other dogs, love pretty much everyone.
But I need to be straight with you about the health stuff. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed (flat-faced), and that comes with real respiratory concerns. They overheat easily, can develop serious breathing problems, and often need surgery for elongated soft palates or stenotic nares. Eye problems are common too — those big beautiful eyes are vulnerable to injuries and ulcers.
This is a breed where pet insurance isn’t optional. Budget $1,000-$1,800 annually for vet care, potentially more if respiratory surgery is needed. If you’re on a tight fixed income, a Pug might not be the most financially practical choice, even though their personality is top-tier.
French Bulldog
Frenchies have exploded in popularity, and I get why. They’re compact, quiet (they rarely bark), affectionate, and almost comically lazy. A French Bulldog’s idea of a perfect day involves a short walk followed by several hours of snoring on the couch. Sound familiar?
At 20-28 pounds, they’re on the heavier end of this list but still very manageable. Grooming is a breeze — short coat, minimal shedding, just wipe down their face wrinkles regularly to prevent infection.
Here’s my concern with Frenchies: the health costs are the highest on this list. Same brachycephalic issues as Pugs, but often worse. Spinal problems, allergies, skin infections, and those breathing issues I mentioned. The average Frenchie owner spends significantly more on vet care than most other breeds on this list. We’re talking $1,200-$3,000 annually, and that’s if you dodge the big surgeries.
I love Frenchies. I really do. But I’d only recommend them to a senior who has a financial cushion for vet bills or excellent pet insurance. If budget is a primary concern, look at some of the other breeds first.
Havanese
The Havanese is my sleeper pick on this list — the breed a lot of people overlook that they absolutely shouldn’t.
Cuba’s national dog is small (7-13 pounds), hypoallergenic, incredibly smart, and genuinely one of the healthiest toy breeds around. That last point matters a lot when you’re thinking about long-term costs. Annual vet bills typically run just $700-$1,000, which is about as low as it gets.
They’re also remarkably trainable. Most toy breeds have a reputation for being difficult, but Havanese actually want to please you. They pick up commands quickly, they housetrain reasonably well, and they’re not prone to the yappy-small-dog syndrome that drives everyone nuts.
The grooming is the main commitment — that silky coat needs regular brushing and professional grooming. But like the Shih Tzu, a shorter clip makes maintenance much easier. If I were recommending one breed to a senior who wanted low vet costs and a hypoallergenic companion, the Havanese would be it.
Miniature Schnauzer
Now we’re stepping into slightly more energetic territory, but hear me out. Miniature Schnauzers are fantastic for active seniors — the kind who walk regularly, garden, and generally stay busy.
At 11-20 pounds, they’re a solid, sturdy little dog. They’re smart (sometimes too smart), loyal, and they’ve got a personality that’s ten times their size. They’re also hypoallergenic, which is a real selling point.
The exercise need is moderate. They’ll want a good 30-minute walk daily and some playtime. If you’re someone who enjoys being active and wants a dog that can keep up without being exhausting, the Mini Schnauzer hits that sweet spot.
Health-wise, they’re generally robust. Pancreatitis can be an issue (watch the fatty treats), and some develop bladder stones. But overall, they’re a healthy breed. $800-$1,200 annually at the vet. Grooming runs moderate — that distinctive beard and eyebrows need regular trimming, either by you or a groomer every 6-8 weeks.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
“Sarah, a Corgi? For a senior?” I know, I know. But hang on.
Corgis are herding dogs, yes. They’re bred to work. But by the time they hit age 5 or 6, many Corgis settle into genuinely mellow companions. And if you adopt an adult or senior Corgi (which I strongly recommend for older owners), you’re getting a dog that’s past the zoomies stage and into the “let’s go for a nice walk and then nap” phase.
At 25-30 pounds, they’re the heaviest on this list. You probably can’t carry a Corgi comfortably. That’s a real consideration. But they’re low to the ground, they don’t pull much on leash, and they’re incredibly smart and easy to train.
Their big appeal? Personality. Corgis are funny, loyal, and they form deep bonds with their owners. They’re also surprisingly independent — they won’t panic if you leave for a few hours, unlike some velcro breeds.
Watch for back problems (intervertebral disc disease is common in long-backed breeds) and hip dysplasia. Annual vet cost: $900-$1,400. Best suited for a senior who’s still reasonably mobile and wants a dog with real character.
Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is the classic family dog that also happens to be wonderful for seniors. They’re gentle, affectionate, and endlessly sweet. At 24-30 pounds, they’re on the larger side for this list, but their calm indoor demeanor makes up for it.
Exercise needs are moderate — a daily 30-minute walk keeps them happy. They love sniffing around the yard or going for leisurely strolls. They’re not going to demand a five-mile hike.
The grooming, though. I’ll be honest — Cockers have high-maintenance coats. Those beautiful long ears and feathered fur need regular brushing (every other day) and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. If you don’t keep up with it, you’ll be dealing with mats and ear infections. Speaking of ears, those floppy ears are prone to infection anyway. Clean them weekly.
Cockers can be prone to eye problems, ear infections, and some lines have temperament issues (avoid puppy mill dogs at all costs). But a well-bred Cocker from a responsible breeder or a rescue Cocker with a known temperament? Absolutely lovely dogs for older adults who don’t mind the grooming commitment. Annual cost: $900-$1,500.
Adopting an Older Dog: A Smart Choice for Seniors
Here’s something I feel strongly about: seniors should seriously consider adopting an adult or senior dog rather than getting a puppy.
I get the puppy appeal. I do. Those faces. But puppies are a LOT of work — housetraining, chewing, middle-of-the-night potty breaks, teething, socialization. That’s exhausting at any age, and it’s particularly tough if you have limited mobility.
An adult dog (3+ years) or a senior dog (7+ years) gives you massive advantages:
- What you see is what you get. Their personality is established. An energetic dog is energetic. A couch potato is a couch potato. No surprises.
- Most are already housetrained. This alone is worth it.
- They’re past the destructive phase. Your shoes are safe.
- Senior dogs bond incredibly fast. There’s something about an older dog finding a new home — they seem to know they’ve been given a second chance, and they attach deeply.
Shelters are full of wonderful adult dogs who were surrendered because of life changes — a move, a divorce, a new baby, an owner who passed away. These aren’t broken dogs. They’re dogs who need a new person. And they’ll love you for it.
The cost savings are real, too. Adoption fees typically run $50-$300 versus $1,500-$3,000+ from a breeder. Many rescue organizations cover initial vetting, spaying/neutering, and vaccinations.
Resources for Senior Dog Owners on a Fixed Income
Affording a dog on a fixed income takes some planning, but it’s absolutely doable. Here are resources that can help:
Pets for the Elderly Foundation — This nonprofit pays a portion of adoption fees (typically up to $50) at participating shelters for adopters age 60+. It’s not a fortune, but every bit helps, and the participating shelters often provide additional discounts.
Low-cost veterinary clinics — Many areas have reduced-fee clinics. The ASPCA, Humane Society, and local animal welfare organizations often run vaccination clinics and affordable spay/neuter programs. Ask your local shelter what’s available.
Pet food assistance programs — Organizations like Pet Food Stamps, The Pet Fund, and local food banks increasingly offer pet food alongside human food assistance.
Breed-specific rescues — If you have your heart set on a particular breed, look for a breed-specific rescue. They often charge lower adoption fees than breeders and the dogs come fully vetted.
Pet insurance considerations — If you’re getting a puppy or young adult, pet insurance makes financial sense. Embrace, Healthy Paws, and Lemonade all offer plans. Run the numbers — for breeds prone to expensive conditions (Frenchies, Pugs, Cavaliers), insurance almost always pays for itself.
A realistic monthly budget for a low-energy small dog looks something like this:
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Food (quality kibble) | $30-$50 |
| Pet insurance | $30-$60 |
| Grooming (averaged) | $10-$20 (low maintenance) to $40-$60 (high maintenance) |
| Preventatives (flea/tick/heartworm) | $15-$30 |
| Misc (toys, treats, supplies) | $10-$20 |
| Total | $95-$220/month |
That’s a real number. If it works in your budget, a dog will give you far more back in companionship than what you spend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best low-maintenance dog for a senior citizen?
The Havanese gets my top pick for the best overall combination of low maintenance, good health, and wonderful temperament. If you want truly minimal grooming, the Pug or French Bulldog require the least coat care, though their health costs can be higher. For the most budget-friendly option overall, a Bichon Frise or Maltese in a short clip offers low exercise needs, good health, and manageable grooming.
Are small dogs better for seniors than large dogs?
Generally, yes — and it comes down to practicality. Small dogs are easier to pick up in emergencies, easier to transport to the vet, cause fewer injuries if they pull on leash, and cost less to feed. That said, some medium-sized breeds like the Cocker Spaniel work great for active seniors. The key question is: can you physically manage the dog in a worst-case scenario?
Should seniors get a puppy or an older dog?
I’d recommend an older dog in almost every case. Adult dogs (3+ years) come with established personalities, are usually housetrained, and skip the destructive puppy phase entirely. Senior dogs (7+ years) can be especially wonderful — they’re calm, grateful, and form deep bonds quickly. The only exception might be if you specifically want to raise a dog from puppyhood and have the energy and mobility to handle it.
How much exercise do low-energy dogs need?
Even the calmest low energy dog breeds for seniors need some daily activity. Most breeds on this list are happy with one or two short walks (15-20 minutes each) plus some indoor play. No dog should be completely sedentary — they still need mental stimulation and light physical activity for their health. But you definitely don’t need to run marathons. A gentle stroll around the block counts.
What if I can’t afford a dog on my fixed income?
Look into the resources I mentioned above — Pets for the Elderly Foundation, low-cost vet clinics, and pet food assistance programs. Adopting from a shelter cuts upfront costs dramatically. Choosing a healthy breed with low grooming needs (like a Havanese or Maltese in a short clip) keeps ongoing costs down. Budget $95-$220 per month as a realistic range, and look into pet insurance to protect against unexpected emergencies.
Can I get a dog if I live in an apartment or assisted living facility?
Absolutely. Most of the easy to care for dogs for elderly owners on this list are perfect apartment dogs. Cavaliers, Maltese, Bichons, Shih Tzus, and Havanese all do well in small spaces with no yard. Many assisted living facilities now allow small pets — check your specific community’s policy. Some even have resident therapy dogs or partnerships with local pet organizations.
Finding the right dog as a senior isn’t about settling. It’s about being smart — matching your lifestyle, your budget, and your physical reality with a breed that fits. Every dog on this list can be a wonderful companion. The best one for you is the one that matches how you actually live, not how you wish you lived.
And honestly? Some of the happiest dog-owner pairs I’ve ever seen are retirees with their little companions. You’ve finally got the time to actually enjoy a dog. That’s a pretty beautiful thing.
Featured Image Source: Pexels
