11 Best Dog Breeds for Grandparents

Looking for a furry companion to brighten your days as a grandparent? The right dog can bring comfort, joy, and a whole lot of love — but not every breed is a great fit for a more relaxed, senior lifestyle. After spending years around different breeds and talking with fellow pet lovers (and some very happy grandparents), here are the top dog breeds we’ve seen work wonderfully in grandparent homes.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Your Sweet, Silky Shadow

These little charmers are affectionate lap dogs through and through. They’re small (13–18 lbs), easy to train, and love being close to their people. Great with kids and other pets, they’re ideal for grandparents who get family visits. Just be aware of potential heart and joint health issues — regular vet checkups help catch things early.

Poodle: Smart, Stylish, and Allergy-Friendly

Whether you go for toy, miniature, or standard size, Poodles are famously intelligent and easy to train. They’re hypoallergenic (a big plus for sensitive folks) but do need regular grooming. We’ve seen Poodles thrive in both active and more relaxed senior homes — just tailor their exercise to your pace.

Bichon Frise: A Bundle of Joy in a Fluffy Coat

This cheerful, hypoallergenic fluffball is great for grandparents who want a cuddly buddy without too much exercise. They do need grooming and some dental care, but their affectionate nature makes up for it. A great match for calmer households that still enjoy a bit of playtime.

Shih Tzu: Lap Dog Royalty

Shih Tzus are low-energy and love staying indoors — perfect for apartment dwellers or seniors who prefer short walks and lots of couch time. They’re hypoallergenic, kid-friendly, and just want to be loved. Keep an eye on their dental health and weight.

Boston Terrier: The Gentleman Companion

Friendly, compact, and full of personality, Boston Terriers are low-maintenance and happy with indoor life. Their short coats are easy to manage, and they usually get along great with visitors of all ages. Just be cautious of potential breathing and eye issues.

Welsh Corgi: Small Dog, Big Heart

Corgis (both Pembroke and Cardigan) are smart, loyal, and full of character. They do shed and need regular brushing, but they’re trainable and great with grandkids. If you’re up for daily walks and a bit of brushing, a Corgi will be your devoted sidekick.

Greyhound: The Surprise Senior Favorite

Despite their racing past, Greyhounds are total couch potatoes. They’re calm, affectionate, and need only moderate exercise, like a couple of short walks a day. Their short coats are easy to care for, but they are sensitive to cold — so yes, you’ll need a dog sweater or two.

French Bulldog: The Chill Clown

Frenchies are compact, affectionate, and wonderfully low-energy. They fit well in small spaces and don’t need much grooming or exercise. Their laid-back nature makes them perfect for a slower-paced lifestyle. Just be mindful of their breathing and joint health — and don’t overdo the snacks.

Beagle: For the Active Grandparent

If you’re still pretty active and enjoy a curious, playful companion, the Beagle might be your match. These scent hounds love to explore and need mental stimulation. They’re great with kids and other pets, but they do need regular walks and a bit more attention than some of the other breeds here.

Yorkshire Terrier: Small but Spunky

Yorkies pack a lot of personality into a tiny frame. They’re great for apartment living and don’t need much exercise, but they do love attention. Their coats look fancy but are fairly manageable with regular brushing. Like many small breeds, they’re prone to dental and knee issues, so some preventative care goes a long way.

Golden Retriever: A Big Heart in a Golden Coat

If you’ve got the energy and space for a larger dog, Golden Retrievers are one of the most loving and gentle breeds out there. They’re especially good for grandparents with frequent visitors or who want a therapy dog-type presence at home. They do need regular grooming and exercise, and they’re prone to some health concerns, but the companionship they offer is unmatched.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the best dog for a grandparent — it really depends on your energy level, living situation, and how much time you want to dedicate to grooming and training. But these breeds have proven time and again to be wonderful companions for seniors. Whether you’re looking for a snuggly lap dog or a walking buddy, there’s a perfect pup out there waiting for you.