Are you ready for a new furry companion? To help you find the perfect match, let’s look at a few of the ideal dog breeds for retirees. Come join us on a journey to find your special four-legged friend. If you're a retiree searching for the perfect pup to accompany you during your golden years, then look no further. In multiple studies, dogs have been repeatedly proven to reduce stress levels and provide companionship, making them an invaluable addition to your life during retirement. From small lapdogs ideal for cozy cuddle sessions at home to active breeds like Labrador retrievers and beagles who love outdoor adventures, there's a breed perfectly suited just for you.

Affection-Driven Dogs for Retiree

Bichon Frisé & Maltese

If you’re looking for a pup that gives lots of love and cuddles, then you should consider a bichon frisé or Maltese. These fluffy breeds bring joy to their owners' lives. They can easily curl up in your lap, weighing about 4–12 pounds. Plus, they offer many years of companionship with an average life expectancy of 12–15 years. However, you’ll need to make regular trips to the groomer since both breeds have long coats that require extra care.

Easy to Train Dog Breed for Retiree

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel & Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Cavalier King Charles spaniel and the Pembroke Welsh corgi are wonderful pups with their own unique charm. If you're looking for a dog that's easy to train, these two breeds make great companions. Cavaliers weigh roughly 18 pounds and have light exercise needs but require more frequent grooming. While corgis are herding dogs, meaning they weigh around 30 pounds and need more regular walks, they do boast low-maintenance coat care. Either breed is sure to bring joy to your home.

Larger Dogs for Retirees

Greyhound

Greyhounds are a surprisingly great option as a pet. These beautiful, gentle canines are amazing walking buddies and will also happily cuddle with you on the couch when it’s time to relax. They may require daily walks; however, if that feels like too much effort, try tossing balls around at their favorite dog park instead. A bonus is greyhounds have short coats, making them low maintenance in terms of grooming, so there’s no need to worry about extra trips to the groomer. 

Senior Dogs for Adoption

Another option for a companion to fill your home with joy and love are older dogs. Shelters are full of furry friends eager to find a forever family, and the breed may be less important than finding one that's right for you. Plus, senior dogs are more mellow, making all those cozy nights spent snuggling together even more special.

It’s inspiring how many programs exist to help people in their search for senior dogs. These senior dog initiatives offer guidance and support, making it much easier — not to mention more affordable — for older adults everywhere to find a furry companion to love. Browse some of the resources below to see what options are available for you.

• One of the most well-known resources, the ASPCA has many programs that help people adopt pets.

• Petango aims to match people with the perfect pet for them.

• Adopt a Pet helps you search pets from rescues, shelters, and individuals.

• Petfinder helps people find pets from a network of shelters and rescues.

• This Google Map of Senior Dog Rescues, Sanctuaries, and Other Programs could help you find a pet rescue or adoption program near you.

• Pets for the Elderly works with shelters around the nation to pair a senior with a pet. 

• The Senior Dogs Project promotes the adoption and welfare of senior dogs and lists several additional programs and resources on their site.

Retirees have plenty of fabulous furry friends to choose from, and some breeds are naturally more well-suited than others, with mixed-breed pups usually being the lowest maintenance. No matter which dog you decide on, it's sure to bring lots of love and laughter into your life.

If you’re not sure whether a dog is the best fit for you in retirement, plenty of other pets make wonderful companions. From cats to birds to hamsters, having an animal friend can add greater joy and adventure to your golden years, making them even more rewarding and exciting. 

As you find a pet for your home, perhaps you’re also looking for a new retirement community for yourself. Explore Del Webb and discover the retirement community for you today.

For more retirement lifestyle articles and the scoop on local hotspots, browse the Del Webb blog to get inspired.