Top 11 Dog Breeds Ideal for Grandparents

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Top 11 Dog Breeds Ideal for Grandparents

If you are a grandparent, we sincerely recommend getting a canine friend to keep you company. However, not all breeds are equally fit for a senior lifestyle. Read to learn about the 11 best dog breeds for grandparents. 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Known for its small size and gentle personality, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an excellent canine for grandparents. It weighs between 13 and 18 pounds and belongs to the group of toy dogs. 

The hallmark of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the silky coat that comes in four colors:

  • Chestnut and white (Blenheim)
  • Black, white & tan (tricolor)
  • Solid red (ruby)
  • Black and tan

In terms of grooming, it is low maintenance and it is easy to train. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is perfect for apartment living. 

Nice! 

Plus, it gets along well with other pets and children. That makes it a great choice for households with people of different generations.  

Even better! 

However, we must note that the breed is prone to some health issues. Common problems include:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart conditions
  • Syringomyelia (a neurological issue)

Overall, if you are a senior and want an affectionate and loyal companion, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is our top pick.  

Poodle

Our next choice for the best dog breed for grandparents is the Poodle. This dog comes in three size varieties - toy, miniature, and standard. 

All Poodles are extremely intelligent and eager to please. This makes them easily trainable. They are also suited for dog sports like:

  • Agility 
  • Obedience.

The curly coat of the Poodle requires maintenance to stay healthy and free from mats and tangles. However, the coat is ideal for seniors because it is not likely to cause allergies (hypoallergenic). 

Now, that is an awesome trait! 

Poodles are active, but they also adapt well to sedentary lifestyles. Plus, they get along well with children, thus being an excellent choice for grandparents with kids coming over. 

Finally, Poodles are prone to health problems like:

  • Eye issues
  • Hip dysplasia

Therefore, it is vital to find a reputable breeder and save grandparents from going to the vet’s office on frequent occasions. 

Bichon Frise

Cheerful and affectionate, the small Bichon Frise is perfect for grandparents who need a companion. The fluffy and curly white coat is the hallmark of the dog, and it requires some grooming to stay healthy. 

The Bichon Frise is active, but it can also spend most of its time at home as long as it is together with its human family. It is a great choice for multi-generational homes. 

Ideal! 

Plus, the Bichon Frise is hypoallergenic, meaning it is unlikely to cause allergies in sensitive people. Therefore, it is well-suited for grandparents with sensitivities to pet dander. 

However, the Bichon Frise often suffers from certain health issues, such as:

  • Dental problems 
  • Allergies

With proper vet care, this breed makes an excellent dog companion to any grandparent. 

Shih Tzu

Affectionate, playful, and gentle, the Shih Tzu is perfect for grandparents. The main feature of this small dog is its silky and luxurious coat that comes in various colors. 

Graceful looks! 

In general, the Shih Tzu is considered an indoor dog breed and does not require much physical activity. Playtime and short walks are enough to keep this dog happy and healthy. It is friendly and gets along with other pets and kids. 

Plus, Shih Tzus are hypoallergenic and suitable for grandparents sensitive to pet dander. They can be prone to some issues like:

  • Dental conditions
  • Eye problems
  • Weight gain

Overall, the Shih Tzu is an ideal dog for grandparents. It is loving and provides both joy and companionship.  

Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is friendly and outgoing. Plus, it is small-sized and, therefore, ideal for grandparents. Its coat is short and smooth, with a distinctive marking on the chest. 

The main reason Boston Terriers are suitable for grandparents is that they are an indoor dog breed - they do not need much exercise. Plus, being naturally friendly, they like other pets and kids. 

Another reason this dog is good for grandparents is its low maintenance in terms of grooming. In addition to being easy to care for, the coat is hypoallergenic. 

On the downside, members of the breed are susceptible to:

  • Eye conditions 
  • Breathing issues

Therefore, it is important to find a reputable Boston Terrier breeder. 

Overall, the Boston Terrier is an exceptional choice for grandparents. Especially if looking for an indoor dog with a charming personality. 

Welsh Corgi

Next on our list of breeds for grandparents is the Welsh Corgi. This small dog is well-known for its loyalty and affectionate nature. There are two Corgi varieties:

  • Cardigan Welsh Corgis
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgis

Corgis are great for grandparents because they are smart and eager to please their owners. As a result, this breed is very trainable - a fact many grandparents appreciate. 

Corgis are generally good for multi-generational households. They are good with children of all ages and can learn to get along with other pets. 

The perfect combination! 

However, grandparents need to be prepared to invest some time in grooming. The Corgi’s coat sheds a lot and needs to be brushed. Also, this breed is prone to back and hip problems. 

All things considered, the Corgi makes a great choice for grandparents. With vet care and regular grooming, most issues can be prevented. 

Greyhound

The Greyhound is a graceful and athletic dog. It is a loyal and affectionate dog and makes an excellent choice for grandparents. Greyhounds are sighthounds - they have supervision and were, therefore, originally used for hunting. 

Despite the original use, modern Greyhounds are indoor dogs and do not need special physical activity regimens. However, they do enjoy walks and playtime. 

The Greyhound’s short and smooth coat is easy to maintain. Plus, the breed is eager to please and highly trainable. Additionally, Greyhounds get along well with other pets and love children. 

Sadly, as with all breeds, the Greyhound is susceptible to certain health issues - mainly:

  • Bloat 
  • Osteosarcoma

They are also cold-sensitive and should wear dog clothes. 

All in all, the athletic and loyal Greyhound is a great dog for grandparents. It is gentle, easy to care for, and will provide companionship. 

French Bulldog

Also known as Frenchie, the French Bulldog is a playful and affectionate little dog. Despite its size, it is full of personality. The French Bulldog is easygoing and low maintenance hence suitable for grandparents. 

The hallmark of the breed is the so-called bat ears. The coat of the Frenchie is smooth, short, and does not require extensive care. As an indoor breed, this dog is also easy to care for in terms of exercise.  

However, the main reason the French Bulldog is suitable for grandparents is its laid-back and calm personality. What is more, this dog is highly adaptable and can live even in a small apartment. 

Perfect! 

However, Frenchies are prone to some health issues, such as:

Overall, the playful and loving French Bulldog makes a great fit for grandparents that are looking for loyalty and companionship. 

Beagle

Curious and friendly, the Beagle is a small to medium dog breed. It is among the best options for active and outgoing grandparents. Originally, Beagles were bred as scent hounds, and they still have an exceptional sense of smell. 

The Beagle has a short but dense coat. However, the coat is low maintenance and easy to keep healthy. 

Beagles are active and friendly. They need moderate physical activity and tons of mental stimulation to stay happy and prevent destructiveness. However, they are also easy to train. 

The Beagle can learn to get along with other pets. Because of its playful nature, it usually loves children of all ages. 

Like all dogs, Beagles are at risk of certain health conditions, like:

  • Ear infections
  • Hip dysplasia

Overall, you should consider the Beagle as a companion if you are a relatively active grandparent. This outgoing and curious breed will make a great addition. 

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier, or as it is popularly known, the Yorkie, is a tiny breed with a spunky temperament. Historically, the breed was developed to catch rats and other vermin. Today, the Yorkie is a great dog for grandparents. 

As an indoor breed, the Yorkshire Terrier does not need much exercise. The long and silky coat, contrary to popular belief, is relatively easy to care for. Plus, the breed is adaptable to different living situations and easy to train. 

That is great! 

Yorkshire Terriers are sensitive to cold weather and must wear sweaters. They are also prone to:

All things considered, the Yorkies will provide grandparents with love and joy. And because of their small size, they are low maintenance. 

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. It is a lovely dog and a great choice for grandparents. As a member of the sporting group, it was once used to retrieve game. 

The Golden Retriever’s coat requires some grooming to stay free from mats. The breed is active and needs exercise. 

So, why is it suitable for grandparents? 

Well, that is because Golden Retrievers are social and naturally friendly. They can live in high-frequency houses with many visitors coming and leaving. Plus, they love other pets and children and learn commands very quickly. 

Because of their trainability and eagerness to please, the Golden Retriever is commonly used as a therapy and emotional support dog. 

To stay healthy, Golden Retrievers need regular veterinary care. They are prone to:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Certain types of cancer

Overall, if looking for a canine companion as a grandparent, consider the Golden Retriever. The dog is loyal and loving. 

Conclusion

All in all, these breeds are suitable for grandparents because of several reasons. They are laid-back, very affectionate, easily trainable, and highly adaptable. Plus, they are low-maintenance in terms of grooming and health issues.

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