Reaching the age of 60 often brings a focus on enjoying a peaceful, relaxed lifestyle with time to pursue hobbies, travel or simply relax. For many people, this stage of life also includes 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 great companions for someone in their 60s. Their compact size makes them easy to handle, and they are known for their cheerful and affectionate nature. Pomeranians love 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 the bonding activity can be enjoyable. Pomeranians are also known for their alertness and will happily serve as a tiny watchdog, providing companionship and a sense of security.
14. Maltese
The Maltese is 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 love spending time with their owners. They are small and easy to handle, which makes them ideal for someone who might prefer a dog that doesn’t require a lot of physical strength to handle. Their long, silky coat does require regular grooming, but this can be a relaxing and enjoyable routine. The Maltese are also known for their low exercise requirements, which makes them perfect for a more relaxed lifestyle that includes short walks and plenty of playtime.
13. Pekingese
Pekingese dogs are a great choice for people over 60 due to their calm and dignified nature. These small dogs are known for their loyalty and quiet, relaxed lifestyle. Pekingese are not very active, preferring to go on short walks and relax at home. Their long hair does require 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 constant attention, making them a great companion for someone who enjoys a peaceful and relaxing 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 playing indoors. Their small size makes them easy to handle, and they are suitable for apartment living or homes with limited space. While their coats require regular grooming, many owners find this to be a rewarding activity that strengthens their bond with their dog. Brussels Griffons are also known for their longevity, ensuring they can be a loyal 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 sociable nature, making them a great companion for someone in their 60s. They are relatively low-maintenance dogs, with short hair and frequent brushing to keep them looking their best. Westies are active but not overly energetic, enjoying daily walks and play, and are content relaxing at home. Their independent but affectionate nature makes them ideal for people 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 over the age of 60 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 love moderate exercise, such as daily walks, but they are just as content relaxing 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 a great companion 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 suitable for anyone in their 60s. Shibas are relatively low-energy dogs that enjoy short walks and time to relax 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 calm and quiet demeanor, which makes them ideal for a peaceful home. Despite being independent, they still enjoy the company of their owner and can form strong bonds, providing a perfect balance of companionship and autonomy.
8. Leuven
The Löwchen, also known as the “Little Lion Dog,” is a small breed with a big heart, making it a great 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 relaxing at home. Their coat, which resembles a lion’s mane, requires regular grooming, but many owners find this to be an enjoyable routine. Löwchens are also known for their good health and longevity, making them a loyal companion for many years. Their small size and friendly nature make them ideal for both apartment living and larger homes.
7. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are ideal for someone over 60 due to their affectionate nature and minimal exercise needs. These little dogs are known for their friendly, sociable personalities and love of pampering. They enjoy short walks and play sessions, but are just as content relaxing on the couch with their owner. Shih Tzus shed less hair, making them a good choice for people who prefer a clean home environment. Their grooming needs are more intensive, as their long, luxurious coats require 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 beloved companion for many years.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers or “Yorkies” are small, energetic dogs that make great companions for someone in their 60s. Despite their small size, Yorkies have big personalities 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, making 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 people 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, beautiful breed known for its charming and affectionate nature, making it an ideal companion for someone in their 60s. These dogs are very loyal and form strong bonds with their owners, often staying close to them at all times. Japanese Chins are low-energy dogs that thoroughly enjoy short walks and relaxing 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 like a cat, which adds to their low-maintenance charm. Their small size and calm 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 a great choice for someone in their 60s. These little dogs are extremely friendly and form strong bonds with their owners, often acting as their constant companion throughout the day. Havanese are low-energy dogs that only require moderate exercise, such as short walks and playing indoors, making them ideal for someone who enjoys a relaxed lifestyle. Their hair is long and silky, requiring regular grooming to keep them looking their best, but this can also be an enjoyable and relaxing activity for many owners. Havanese are also known to be highly adaptable and thrive in a variety of living situations, whether it’s a yard in the home or an apartment. Their friendly nature and small size make them perfect for someone who is looking for a loving, low-maintenance companion.
3. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are a great choice for people over 60 due to their friendly and sociable 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 prefer moderate exercise, such as daily walks and playing in the yard, making them ideal for people who want to stay active without getting tired. They are also easy to train, which can be a rewarding experience for their owners. Miniature Schnauzers have a distinctive, curly coat that requires regular grooming, but many owners find this to be an enjoyable activity that strengthens their bond with their dogs. Their adaptable nature makes them suitable for a variety of living situations, whether it’s a house with a yard or an apartment.
2. Monkey
Pugs are a great breed for people over 60 due to their lovable and friendly nature. These little dogs are known for their distinctive wrinkled faces and curly tails, which add to their unique charm. Pugs are extremely affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners, often following them around the house. They are relatively low-energy dogs, content with short walks and plenty of playtime, 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 homes. 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 nature.
1. Papillon
The Papillon is a small, beautiful dog known for its friendly and intelligent nature, making it a great choice for someone in their 60s. Despite their delicate appearance, Papillons are strong and agile, often enjoying agility training or playing around the house. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations, whether it’s a small apartment or a large home. The Papillon requires moderate exercise, which can be easily managed with daily walks and playtime. Their coat, although long, is not prone to tangling and is relatively easy to clean with regular brushing. Papillons are known for their longevity, which means they can be a beloved companion for many years, bringing joy and companionship to their owner’s life.
Choosing the right partner at 60
Choosing 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 cater to a variety of personalities, sizes, and maintenance needs, ensuring there is a perfect match for everyone. Whether you are looking for a small, affectionate dog or a dog that is a bit more independent, each of these breeds can provide the love and companionship that enriches life during this stage.