Choosing a dog later in life can be a wonderful way to add companionship, routine, activity, and plenty of happy moments to everyday life. But finding the right match is about more than choosing a small or cute breed.

For someone in their 70s, factors such as exercise requirements, size, temperament, grooming, trainability, barking, and overall care needs can be especially important. A dog should fit comfortably into the owner’s lifestyle rather than requiring a lifestyle that is difficult to maintain.

The breeds below include small companion dogs and a few more active options. They aren’t presented as a universal ranking because every dog and owner is different. Instead, think of this list as a starting point when looking for a manageable and affectionate canine companion.

What Should Someone in Their 70s Look for in a Dog?

Before choosing a breed, consider your daily routine and what you realistically want from dog ownership.

Important factors include:

• Exercise needs: Can you comfortably provide the walks and play the dog requires?
• Size: A smaller dog may be easier to handle physically, but small doesn’t always mean low-energy.
• Grooming: Some breeds need frequent brushing or professional grooming.
• Temperament: Calm, affectionate, and adaptable dogs may fit quieter households well.
• Trainability: A dog that responds well to positive training can make everyday life easier.
• Barking: Some small breeds can be surprisingly vocal.
• Health considerations: Breed-specific health risks and veterinary costs should be considered.
• Longevity: A puppy can be a long-term commitment, so future care needs matter.
• Living environment: Apartment living and a house with a yard can suit different types of dogs.

With those factors in mind, here are 15 breeds worth considering.

15. Silky Terrier

The Silky Terrier is a small companion dog with a lively personality and a strong attachment to its family. Its compact size can make everyday handling easier than with a large breed.

Silky Terriers still have plenty of terrier spirit, however, so they shouldn’t be mistaken for completely sedentary dogs. They typically benefit from daily walks, play, and opportunities to use their minds.

Their long, silky coat requires regular grooming, but their small size means brushing sessions can be relatively manageable.

Why consider a Silky Terrier?

• Small and easy to accommodate
• Affectionate with familiar people
• Enjoys interactive play
• Doesn’t require the exercise of a large working breed
• Can form a strong bond with its owner

Their energetic and sometimes independent terrier personality means they may be better suited to an owner who enjoys an active, engaging companion rather than a completely laid-back lap dog.

14. Pekingese

The Pekingese is a small companion breed known for its independent and dignified personality. These dogs can be quite content spending time indoors with their owners and don’t generally need extensive exercise.

Their compact size can make them convenient for smaller homes or apartments.

However, their long coat needs regular maintenance, and their short muzzle means owners should take care with heat and strenuous activity.

Potential advantages include:

• Small body size
• Generally suited to indoor living
• Moderate exercise requirements
• Affectionate with their families
• Independent personality

A Pekingese can be a good option for someone who wants a dog that enjoys companionship without demanding long daily adventures.

13. Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is one of the smallest members of the sighthound family. These elegant dogs are affectionate and often enjoy staying close to their favorite people.

Their short coat requires very little grooming, which can be appealing to owners who don’t want to spend a lot of time brushing.

Despite their small size, Italian Greyhounds can have energetic bursts and enjoy running and playing. They also have delicate bones, so owners should be careful about falls, rough play, and unsafe jumping.

Good points to consider:

• Very small and lightweight
• Minimal coat maintenance
• Affectionate and people-oriented
• Enjoys relaxing indoors
• Can be playful without requiring constant activity

They can be particularly appealing to someone looking for a close companion who doesn’t need extensive grooming.

12. Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a small companion breed known for its cheerful and affectionate personality. Cotons often enjoy spending time with their families and can adapt well to different home environments.

They don’t require intense exercise, although daily walks and play are still important.

Their soft coat needs regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats. Some owners may choose professional grooming to make coat maintenance easier.

Why might a Coton work well?

• Small and manageable
• Friendly personality
• Adaptable to different homes
• Enjoys companionship
• Moderate exercise needs

For someone who enjoys having a dog nearby throughout the day, the Coton can be an engaging and affectionate companion.

11. Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle combines a tiny frame with impressive intelligence. Poodles are highly trainable and often enjoy learning tricks, basic obedience, and interactive games.

Their low-shedding coat can be attractive to people who don’t want a home covered in loose dog hair. However, low shedding doesn’t mean low maintenance—the coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming.

Toy Poodles also need mental stimulation. Short training sessions and puzzle toys can be just as valuable as physical exercise.

Potential benefits:

• Small size
• Highly intelligent
• Usually responsive to training
• Low-shedding coat
• Adaptable to apartment living

Someone looking for a quiet dog that requires almost no activity may find a Toy Poodle too energetic or mentally demanding. But for an owner who enjoys teaching and interacting with a dog, they can be an excellent companion.

10. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is larger and more active than many of the companion breeds on this list. Corgis are intelligent, social, and energetic dogs that generally benefit from regular walks and mental stimulation.

Their moderate size can be manageable for some owners, but their energy level and herding instincts shouldn’t be overlooked.

Their short double coat is relatively straightforward to maintain, although they can shed considerably.

A Corgi may suit an owner who:

• Enjoys daily walks
• Wants a lively companion
• Likes training and interactive games
• Can provide consistent exercise
• Doesn’t mind regular shedding

They may not be the right fit for someone looking specifically for a very low-energy dog.

9. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a relatively uncommon small breed with a distinctive long body, short legs, and characteristic topknot.

These dogs can be affectionate and devoted to their families while maintaining the independent personality often associated with terriers.

They generally don’t require extreme amounts of exercise, but daily walks and mental stimulation are still important.

Their coat needs regular grooming, and owners should also be mindful of their long-backed body when handling them and discussing exercise with a veterinarian.

Highlights include:

• Small body size
• Distinctive appearance
• Affectionate with family
• Moderate exercise requirements
• Interesting personality

Their rarity can also make finding a responsible breeder or breed-specific rescue more challenging.

8. Bedlington Terrier

With its distinctive lamb-like appearance, the Bedlington Terrier is an unusual but charming companion breed.

Bedlingtons are intelligent, affectionate, and athletic enough to enjoy walks and play. They can also settle comfortably at home after receiving appropriate activity.

Their curly coat doesn’t shed heavily but requires regular grooming and trimming.

Why consider a Bedlington Terrier?

• Affectionate family companion
• Intelligent and trainable
• Moderate exercise needs
• Distinctive low-shedding coat
• Can adapt to different homes

As with other terriers, they can have a lively and independent side, so consistent positive training is important.

7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a popular companion breed known for its affectionate and sociable nature. Cavaliers often enjoy being close to their owners and can adapt to both active and quieter households.

They typically need regular walks and play but don’t generally require the kind of intense exercise associated with working or sporting breeds.

Their medium-length coat benefits from regular brushing.

Why they appeal to many companion-dog owners:

• Affectionate personality
• Small, manageable size
• Enjoys human company
• Moderate exercise requirements
• Generally adaptable

Potential owners should research the breed’s health issues carefully and discuss appropriate veterinary care with a professional before choosing a Cavalier.

6. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu was developed primarily as a companion dog, and its affectionate personality makes it a popular choice for people who enjoy having a dog close by.

Shih Tzus generally don’t need long-distance exercise. Short walks, indoor play, and regular interaction can help keep them happy.

Their beautiful coat does require considerable maintenance. Owners who keep the coat short may find daily care easier, while longer coats require more frequent brushing.

Advantages can include:

• Small size
• Companion-oriented personality
• Moderate-to-low exercise requirements
• Adaptable to apartment living
• Generally happy spending time indoors

Because Shih Tzus have a short muzzle, owners should also take sensible precautions during hot weather and discuss breathing or other breed-related health concerns with their veterinarian.

5. Norwich Terrier

The Norwich Terrier is a small, sturdy breed with a friendly and confident personality.

Despite their size, Norwich Terriers are active little dogs with terrier instincts. They can enjoy daily walks, games, and exploring their surroundings.

Their wiry coat requires regular brushing and occasional grooming.

A Norwich Terrier may appeal to someone who wants:

• A compact dog
• An outgoing personality
• A sturdy small companion
• Moderate daily activity
• A dog that enjoys interactive time

Their lively nature means they aren’t necessarily the best match for someone seeking a purely sedentary lap dog.

4. Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a tiny dog with a big personality. Their compact size makes them convenient for many living environments, and they can get much of their activity through short walks and indoor play.

Pomeranians are often alert and can be vocal, so owners should be prepared to work on barking and basic obedience.

Their thick double coat also requires regular brushing.

Reasons to consider a Pomeranian:

• Very small size
• Playful and affectionate
• Can live comfortably in smaller homes
• Enjoys human companionship
• Moderate exercise needs

Their small body also means they need careful handling around larger dogs and young children.

3. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful companion breed known for its friendly personality and fluffy white coat.

Bichons are generally playful without requiring extreme amounts of exercise. Regular walks, indoor games, and interaction can help keep them physically and mentally healthy.

Their coat is often described as hypoallergenic, but no dog is completely allergen-free. Bichons are considered lower-shedding, although their coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming.

Potential benefits include:

• Small and manageable
• Friendly personality
• Lower shedding
• Adaptable to different homes
• Moderate exercise needs

Bichons tend to enjoy human interaction, making them appealing to owners who want a sociable companion.

2. Papillon

The Papillon may look delicate, but this small breed is intelligent, energetic, and surprisingly athletic.

Papillons can be excellent companions for owners who enjoy teaching tricks and playing interactive games. They don’t need the exercise demands of a large dog, but they do benefit from daily activity and mental stimulation.

Their fine coat is relatively manageable with regular brushing.

Papillon highlights:

• Very intelligent
• Small and lightweight
• Highly trainable
• Moderate exercise needs
• Enjoys interactive activities
• Adaptable to different living situations

For someone who wants a tiny dog with an active mind and playful personality, the Papillon can be an interesting option.

1. Pug

The Pug is a small companion breed known for its affectionate, social, and often entertaining personality. Many Pugs enjoy spending most of their time close to their owners and are happy with short walks followed by plenty of relaxation.

However, Pugs are brachycephalic, meaning their shortened facial structure can make breathing and heat regulation more challenging. Owners need to be particularly careful during hot weather and avoid strenuous exercise.

Pugs also require attention to their facial skin folds and can shed more than their short coat might suggest.

Why some owners appreciate Pugs:

• Small size
• Affectionate nature
• Usually happy with moderate activity
• Enjoys spending time with people
• Entertaining personality
• Well suited to indoor companionship

Anyone considering a Pug should understand the breed’s potential respiratory and heat-related health concerns before making a decision.

Other Factors to Consider Before Getting a Dog

Breed is only one part of the equation. The individual dog’s age, personality, training, and health can be just as important.

Consider an Adult or Senior Dog

A puppy can be adorable, but puppies require frequent bathroom breaks, training, supervision, socialization, and considerable patience.

An adult dog may already be house-trained and have a more established personality. For some older owners, adopting an adult or senior dog can therefore be worth considering.

Think About Future Care

Dog ownership can last many years. Before adopting, consider whether you’ll be comfortable managing the dog’s needs as it ages.

Also think about:

• Veterinary expenses
• Emergency care
• Grooming costs
• Food
• Walking arrangements
• Travel plans
• Who can care for the dog if you become temporarily unavailable

Planning ahead can make dog ownership much easier.

Choose Temperament Over Appearance

A breed may look perfect in photographs but still not fit your lifestyle.

A calm adult dog with a compatible personality may be a better match than a high-energy puppy of a breed traditionally described as suitable for seniors.

When adopting, spend time with the individual dog and ask shelter or rescue staff about its behavior, energy level, training, and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest dog breed for someone in their 70s?

There isn’t one breed that is easiest for every person. Small companion breeds such as Shih Tzus, Bichon Frises, Pekingese, and similar dogs may suit people who prefer moderate exercise and indoor companionship, while an individual adult dog with the right temperament may be an even better match.

Are small dogs always better for older owners?

No. Small dogs can be easier to physically manage, but some are energetic, vocal, stubborn, or grooming-intensive. A dog’s individual temperament and care requirements matter more than size alone.

Should someone in their 70s get a puppy?

A puppy can be a wonderful companion, but puppies require significant time for house training, socialization, supervision, and basic obedience. An adult dog may be worth considering if a lower-maintenance transition is preferred.

What should seniors consider before adopting a dog?

Consider exercise requirements, grooming, size, temperament, veterinary expenses, training needs, and how the dog’s care will be handled in the future.

Are Pugs good for older owners?

Pugs can be affectionate indoor companions and generally don’t require extensive exercise. However, their breathing and heat-related health risks mean owners need to take particular care during warm weather and discuss breed-specific health concerns with a veterinarian.

Is adopting a senior dog a good option?

A senior dog can be an excellent option for someone who wants a calmer companion and doesn’t want to manage puppyhood. Senior dogs can still have medical needs, so prospective owners should understand their veterinary requirements before adoption.

Final Thoughts

Finding a canine companion in your 70s is less about choosing a breed from a ranking and more about finding a dog whose needs fit comfortably with your lifestyle.

Small companion breeds such as the Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, Pekingese, Pug, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may appeal to people who prefer a quieter household. More energetic breeds such as the Papillon, Norwich Terrier, or Pembroke Welsh Corgi may suit owners who enjoy regular walks, training, and play.

Most importantly, look beyond appearance. Consider the dog’s exercise needs, grooming requirements, temperament, health, and long-term care.

The right dog isn’t simply the one that looks adorable—it is the one whose needs and personality fit naturally into your everyday life.