Empty-nesters have options for canine companionship. You may not need a dog that’s good with children. You may want low maintenance. You may want a breed that helps keep you active. Here are 10 dogs that fit the bill.
10. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is one of the 10 most popular dog breeds in America. They are remarkably intelligent and highly trainable. These dogs need a lot of activity so they are best suited for people who can spend time with them and help them burn off their endless energy.
9. Golden Retriever
You won’t find a more friendly, devoted companion than a Golden Retriever. They are intelligent, easy to train, and love everyone. They are great with other people, children, and pets. They are shedders and need weekly brushing. They’re happy to lounge around with you, but they do need mental stimulation and exercise.
8. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are friendly, loving, and affectionate dogs. They’re smart, highly trainable, obedient, and love to please. They shed a bit and need their coat brushed nearly daily. They’re playful, make good watchdogs, and are highly adaptable. On the downside, they’re very vocal and need something to do to bark less and stay out of mischief.
7. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are intelligent, highly-trainable dogs that are loving and good family dogs. There also highly protective and make excellent watchdogs. They have a high energy level, so they need lots of mental stimulation and exercise. They can be barkers. They are highly adaptive and can go with you anywhere.
6. French Bulldog
The sweet, loving nature and playfulness of these dogs are what makes them such wonderful companions. Due to their breathing problems and tendency for heat exhaustion, they only tolerate minimal exercise, but they need daily short walks. However, they do commonly have other medical issues and rack up an annual average of $1,087 in vet bills.
5. Pug
Pugs are the clowns of the dog world. They are loving, affectionate, and eager to please. Their small size makes them an easy companion to travel with. Their coats require little grooming. Pugs have breathing problems and are prone to overheating, so they only need minimal-to-moderate exercise.
4. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are loving, lively, dogs that long for your attention. This tiny toy breed rarely grows over 6-7 pounds, making them an easy carry-on companion for people who travel. Pomeranians have a long lifespan, 12-16 years. Despite their luxurious coat, they aren’t heavy shedders and only require weekly brushing.
3. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas make great dogs for people who travel. Their small size, averaging 6-9 inches, and an average weight of 5-8 pounds, makes them easy to carry with you on a plane. Their short coats require little grooming. They are known for being very vocal, but this can be lessened with training and socialization.
Read More: 10 Best Dog Breeds for New Owners
2. Poodle
Poodles come in sizes for everyone: Standard, medium, miniature, and toy. They are highly intelligent, easy to train, and get along well with other animals, including cats. Although they do require regular grooming, they don’t shed a lot. They are considered hypoallergenic as their coat slows the loss of dander.
Read More: 10 Dog Breeds Your Cat Will Like
1. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are friendly, loyal companions and the top dog breed in America. They’re very smart and easy to train. Labs are playful, especially when young, but are happy to lounge with you too. They love food, so they need exercise to not gain weight. You can take these adaptable dogs with you everywhere.
Read More: 10 Reasons to Adopt an Older Dog
