25 Dog Breeds Perfect For Retirees

A dog can truly be your best friend and loyal companion. Sometimes they’re even better than husbands, in fact. Thankfully, there are also many kinds of dogs, which means there’s a great four-legged friend out there for you no matter where you are in life.

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When we have young families, active dogs are the ones we choose. Once the kids are grown and our lifestyles change, a less active dog may be best. If a low-maintenance, kinda lazy dog is what you’re looking for, adopting a rescue dog who is a few years old or, better yet, a senior dog who just wants a warm comfy spot to live out their golden years is probably best. You might not want to start over again with a puppy if your kids are out of the house and retirement is on the horizon…

To help you decide which breed of dog is best for you, here are 25 breeds that are could be the perfect companion for your lifestyle — whether you want a couch potato dog or a dog that’s more active and can accompany you on hikes and other adventures.

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Once you’ve decided what you’re looking for in a dog, be sure to check out rescues in your area (there are even breed-specific rescues in many cities) or work with a local foster organization to find your new furry friend.

Shih Tzu

This adorable little fur ball weighs between 10-19 pounds fully grown. Their maximum height is between 8-11 inches. They are known to be loyal, affectionate, outgoing, and alert

Pekingese

The Pekingese is another toy dog breed originating in China, where it was favored by royalty as a lap dog. They weigh between 7-14 pounds and stand about 6-9 inches.

Poodle

Poodles come in many sizes, from teacup to standard and many in between. Known for being very smart dogs, poodles also don’t shed so they are great for people with allergies

Mini Pinscher

Also known as Mini Pin, these little dogs require training due to their stubborn nature. Typically 10-12 inches tall, their ideal weight is between 8-10 pounds.

Schipperke

This breed can be a bit stubborn and mischievous. Schipperkes weigh between 7-20 pounds. They require training, as they are also naturally curious and have a high prey drive.

Saint Bernard

These lovable giants are as lazy as they are cute! They can weigh up to 260 pounds and stand up to 35 inches tall. Like other large dogs, their average life span is 10-12 years.

Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdogs are intelligent, social couch potatoes. With a height of up to 24 inches, they can weigh up to 100 pounds.

Havanese

The Havanese are highly adaptable companion dogs. They don’t like to be left alone, making them ideal for retirees who want a constant companion. They are typically 10-16 pounds and 9-11 inches tall.

Maltese

These members of the toy group of dogs max out at 7-8 pounds. Their average height is between 8-10 inches. Maltese are bred to be companion dogs. They are playful and friendly with adults, they may be snippy around small children. They are also considered to be hypo-allergenic.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This adorable dog averages 13-18 pounds and around 12-13 inches in height. This breed is affectionate, playful, patient, and eager to please. While their coat requires brushing, it doesn’t require trimming.

English Bulldog

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English Bulldogs are medium-sized, with a weight range between 40-55 pounds. The English bulldog’s disposition should be equable, friendly, patient, and dignified. They are also stubborn and lazy. Plus, how could you resist that face?

Great Dane

These gentle giants are sweet and goofy. They can weight between 110-180 pounds and be 28-31 inches in height. Most Great Danes think they are lap dogs, though. Regardless, be sure you have enough room for them in your home.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

These short-legged dogs are ranked pretty high on the intelligence scale. With a weight between 24-31 pounds, these dogs stand only 10-12 inches high. They are affectionate and eager to please.

Bichon Frise

How could you go wrong with a name that means “curly lap dog”? This little dog weighs between 10-20 pounds. They’re cheerful dogs that are very sociable and affectionate.

French Bulldog

Commonly known as “Frenchies,” these little bulldogs are enjoying a great deal of popularity. They are the smallest of all the bulldogs, with an average weight of 16-28 pounds and the average height of 11-12 inches. While they have minimal exercise needs, they don’t like to be left alone for too long.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Another gentle giant. These were originally farm dogs or used to pull carts. Weighing between 70-120 pounds, they are between 23-28 inches in height. They are gentle, good-natured dogs. Although they do require some exercise, they have little endurance.

Yorkshire Terrier

These adorable little “purse” dogs are the size you can carry with you anywhere. They’re ideal weight is around 7 pounds, with a height between 7-8 inches. They thrive on attention and love, preferring humans over other dogs.

English Mastiff

These huge dogs weigh between 120-250 pounds and stand between 27-30 inches tall. These grand, good-natured dogs are gentle and loyal. Adult English Mastiffs sleep most of the day and are perfect for people who want a big, lazy dog.

Coton de Tulear

Named for their cotton-like coat, these little dogs weigh between 13-18 pounds and reach a height of 10-12 inches. They’re playful, affectionate dogs that are also friendly and intelligent

Chow Chow

he Chow Chow is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence. They’re weight ranges between 45-70 pounds, with a height of 17-20 inches. These dogs are stubborn but develop strong, loyal bonds with their owners. They are not excessively active.

Great Pyrenees

These giant furballs can weigh between 90-130 pounds. They stand between 26-31 inches in height. They’re known for being gentle, confident, and affectionate. They’re also patient and loyal. Understandably, they also tend to be lazy, especially when it’s warm.

Pug

These dogs are little shadows, following their owners around. They weigh 14-18 pounds and stand 10-12 inches tall. Pugs are friendly, adaptable dogs, known as the clowns of the canine world.

Chinese Crested

This hairless dog is small, weighing in at 10-13 pounds. Its height is between 8-12 pounds. They are playful, loving, and devoted dogs. Plus, they’re a real conversation-starter.

Boston Terrier

These popular little dogs weigh between 6-25 pounds, quite the spread! They can range in height from 9-15 inches. They are happy-go-lucky, friendly dogs who are eager to please.

Bull Mastiff

The Bull Mastiff is a large, sturdy breed. They can weigh in the range of 90-130 pounds, and stand between 24-27 inches tall. These are strong, powerful dogs that needs consistency in training.

Dachshund

These short-legged, long-bodied dogs are actually a group of dogs that include long-haired, smooth-haired, wire-haired, and all three coat types and come in miniature size as well. Standard size Dachshunds weigh an average of 16 pounds, while miniatures weigh less than 12 pounds. These are playful, yet stubborn dogs.

So what do you think is the best dog breed for you as you get ready for retirement? There are many factors to consider. Once you decide, let us know how we can help reach your training goals! Please contact us today to schedule a FREE Discovery call.