Reaching your 60s often focuses on enjoying a peaceful, relaxed lifestyle with the time to pursue hobbies, travel, or simply unwind. For many, this stage of life also involves the desire for a canine companion who complements this slower pace. The best dog breeds for someone in their 60s offer companionship, loyalty, and love without demanding excessive energy or maintenance. The ideal dog for this stage of life should be easygoing, adaptable, and affectionate, providing the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.
15. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are small, lively dogs that make excellent companions for someone in their 60s. Their compact size makes them easy to manage, and they are known for their cheerful and affectionate nature. Pomeranians enjoy being around their owners and are content with short walks and indoor playtime, making them ideal for a more relaxed lifestyle. Their fluffy coat requires regular grooming, but bonding activity can be pleasurable. Pomeranians are also known for their alertness and will happily act as a little watchdog, providing companionship and a sense of security.
14. Maltese
The Maltese are a gentle and affectionate breed that fits perfectly into the life of someone in their 60s. Known for their loving nature, Maltese dogs are incredibly loyal and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are small and easy to handle, making them ideal for someone who may prefer a dog that doesn’t require a lot of physical strength to manage. Their long, silky coat does need regular grooming, but this can be a relaxing and enjoyable routine. Maltese are also known for their low exercise needs, making them perfect for a more relaxed lifestyle that includes short walks and plenty of cuddle time.
13. Pekingese
Pekingese dogs are an excellent choice for someone in their 60s due to their calm and dignified nature. These small dogs are known for their loyalty and preference for a quiet, comfortable lifestyle. Pekingese are not overly active, preferring short walks and plenty of time relaxing at home. Their long coat requires regular grooming, but their calm demeanor makes them easy to care for. Pekingese dogs are also known for their independence, which means they can entertain themselves without needing constant attention, making them a great companion for someone who enjoys a peaceful and relaxed environment.
12. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a small breed with a big personality, making it an ideal companion for someone in their 60s. These dogs are known for their affectionate and loyal nature, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Brussels Griffons are relatively low-energy dogs, content with short walks and indoor playtime. Their small size makes them easy to manage, and they are well-suited to apartment living or homes with limited space. While their coat requires regular grooming, many owners find this a rewarding activity that strengthens their bond with their dog. Brussels Griffons are also known for their longevity, ensuring they can be a faithful companion for many years.
11. West Highland White Terrier (Westie)
The West Highland White Terrier, commonly known as the Westie, is a small, sturdy dog with a big personality. Westies are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, making them great companions for someone in their 60s. They are relatively low-maintenance dogs, with a short coat that requires only regular brushing to keep them looking their best. Westies are active but not overly energetic, enjoying daily walks and playtime, and are content to relax at home. Their independent yet affectionate demeanor makes them ideal for those who want a dog that can entertain itself but still enjoys spending time with its owner.
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a great choice for someone in their 60s due to their gentle and affectionate nature. These small dogs are known for their love of companionship and ability to adapt to their owner’s lifestyle. Cavaliers enjoy moderate exercise, such as daily walks, but are equally content to relax at home with their owners. Their grooming needs are moderate, requiring regular brushing to keep their coat in good condition. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are also known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them excellent companions for someone who enjoys a calm and loving environment.
9. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized breed known for its independence and loyalty, making it a good fit for someone in their 60s. Shibas are relatively low-energy dogs that enjoy short walks and time relaxing at home. They are known for their clean nature, often grooming themselves much like a cat, which makes them low-maintenance in terms of hygiene. Shibas are also known for their quiet and calm demeanor, making them ideal for a peaceful household. While independent, they still enjoy their owner’s company and can form strong bonds, providing a perfect balance of companionship and autonomy.
8. Löwchen
The Löwchen, also known as the “Little Lion Dog,” is a small breed with a big heart, making it an excellent companion for someone in their 60s. These dogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Löwchens are low-energy dogs, content with short walks and plenty of time spent relaxing at home. Their coat, which resembles a lion’s mane, requires regular grooming, but many owners find this a pleasurable routine. Löwchens are also known for their good health and longevity, making them a faithful companion for many years. Their small size and friendly disposition make them ideal for both apartment living and larger homes.
7. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are ideal for someone in their 60s because of their affectionate nature and minimal exercise needs. These small dogs are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities and love of being pampered. They enjoy short walks and play sessions but are equally content to relax on the couch with their owner. Shih Tzus are low-shedding, making them a good option for those who prefer a cleaner home environment. Their grooming needs are more intensive, as their long, luxurious coat requires regular brushing and occasional trimming. However, many owners find this grooming time to be a relaxing and enjoyable bonding activity. Shih Tzus are also known for their good health and longevity, meaning they can be a loving companion for many years.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or “Yorkies,” are small, energetic dogs that make excellent companions for someone in their 60s. Despite their tiny size, Yorkies have a big personality and are known for their loyalty and affection. They enjoy short walks and playtime, making them ideal for someone who enjoys a moderate level of activity. Yorkies are also known for their intelligence, which makes them relatively easy to train. Their long, silky coat requires regular grooming, but many owners find this a bonding experience. Yorkies are also hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for those with allergies. Their small size and loving nature make them perfect for apartment living or homes with limited space.
5. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a small, elegant breed known for its charming and affectionate nature, making it an ideal companion for someone in their 60s. These dogs are very loyal and tend to form strong bonds with their owners, often staying close by at all times. Japanese Chins are low-energy dogs that enjoy short walks and plenty of time lounging around the house. Their grooming needs are moderate, requiring regular brushing to keep their coat in good condition. Japanese Chins are also known for being very clean dogs, often grooming themselves much like a cat, which adds to their low-maintenance appeal. Their small size and quiet demeanor make them perfect for apartment living or homes with limited space.
4. Havanese
Havanese dogs are known for their cheerful, affectionate nature, making them an excellent choice for someone in their 60s. These small dogs are extremely friendly and tend to form strong bonds with their owners, often acting as a constant companion throughout the day. Havanese are low-energy dogs that require only moderate exercise, such as short walks and indoor playtime, making them ideal for someone who enjoys a relaxed lifestyle. Their coats are long and silky, requiring regular grooming to keep them looking their best, but this can also be a pleasant and relaxing activity for many owners. Havanese are also known for being highly adaptable and thriving in various living situations, whether in a house with a yard or an apartment. Their friendly nature and small size make them a perfect fit for someone looking for a loving, low-maintenance companion.
3. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are a great choice for someone in their 60s due to their friendly and outgoing personalities. These small to medium-sized dogs are known for their intelligence and loyalty, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Miniature Schnauzers are relatively low-energy dogs that enjoy moderate exercise, such as daily walks and playtime in the yard, making them ideal for someone who wants to stay active without being overwhelmed. They are also known for being easy to train, which can be a rewarding experience for their owners. Miniature Schnauzers have a distinctive, wiry coat that requires regular grooming, but many owners find this a pleasant activity that strengthens their bond with their dogs. Their adaptable nature makes them suitable for various living situations, whether in a house with a yard or an apartment.
2. Pug
Pugs are a wonderful breed for someone in their 60s because of their loving and sociable nature. These small dogs are known for their distinctive wrinkled faces and curly tails, which add to their unique charm. Pugs are extremely affectionate and tend to form strong bonds with their owners, often following them around the house. They are relatively low-energy dogs, content with short walks and lots of cuddle time, making them perfect for someone who enjoys a relaxed lifestyle. Pugs are also known for their humorous personalities, often bringing joy and laughter to their households. Their grooming needs are minimal, requiring only regular brushing and attention to their facial wrinkles to keep them clean and healthy. Pugs are also known for being excellent companions for seniors due to their gentle and friendly disposition.
1. Papillon
The Papillon is a small, elegant dog known for its friendly and intelligent nature, making it a great choice for someone in their 60s. Despite their delicate appearance, Papillons are sturdy and agile, often enjoying agility training or playing around the house. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, whether in a small apartment or a larger home. Papillons require moderate exercise, which can be easily managed with daily walks and playtime. Their coat, though long, is not prone to matting and is relatively easy to maintain with regular brushing. Papillons are known for longevity, meaning they can be a loving companion for many years, bringing joy and companionship to their owner’s life.
Choosing the Right Companion in Your 60s
Selecting the right dog breed in your 60s involves finding a balance between companionship, care requirements, and the level of activity that suits your lifestyle. The breeds listed here offer a variety of personalities, sizes, and maintenance needs, ensuring that there is a perfect match for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a small, affectionate dog or one that’s a bit more independent, each of these breeds can provide the love and companionship that enriches life during this stage.