Hi there, I’m Bruno.
I’m a two-year-old Australian Labradoodle and proud full-time greeter here at SoCo Village in Austin, Texas. You’ll usually find me sprawled in a sunbeam near the office, napping after a tough morning of belly rubs and delivering joy.
I’m not just the resident dog; I’m family, and I found my home at SoCo Village. I help welcome new residents, hang out in The Retreat (our memory care neighborhood), and even go on scenic drives.
Why am I writing this blog? Well, I’ve heard lots of humans talking about the best dog breeds for seniors. Who better to weigh in than a dog who lives in a senior living community? I see how much love and connection pets bring. So grab a snack (maybe a pupachino?), and let’s talk about the best dogs for folks like you.
What Does a Day in My Life Look Like?
Each day starts with a tail wag and a visit to the front desk. I like to be ready for anyone walking in. After all, first impressions matter.
Mid-morning, I wander over to The Retreat. That’s where some of our residents with memory loss spend their days doing crafts, music, and chair exercises. I lay nearby, occasionally getting up to nuzzle a knee or rest my head on a lap. My presence helps people relax, and I like being part of the action.
Later, I head outside to sniff around our South Congress neighborhood. There’s always something new to smell. A quick stop at the office window lets the team know I’m doing my rounds. Then it’s back inside for a nap in a sunspot.
Some days, I get dressed up — holiday sweaters, silly hats, you name it. I don’t mind. It makes people smile. And if someone has fries from McDonald’s? You bet I’m on that.
But enough about me. Let’s talk about my favorite topic: dogs. More specifically, dogs that make great companions for seniors.
Why Older Adults Should Have Pets
Let’s be real — everyone needs a friend. Dogs like me offer:
- Companionship: We’re always nearby for a chat (or a snuggle).
- Routine: Feeding, walking, and caring for us gives structure to your day.
- Exercise: Even a short walk helps keep you moving.
- Purpose: We give you something to care for and return the favor tenfold.
That’s why having a dog can be especially helpful for seniors living alone. A pet creates a routine, encourages activity, and reduces feelings of loneliness.
Here at SoCo Village, assisted living residents can have dogs, and I’m always around to keep things lively. In memory care, animals like me are part of what makes life calmer and more joyful.
The Best Dog Breeds for Seniors (According to Me!)
Now for the good stuff. Here are some of my top picks for the best dog breeds for seniors:
Shih Tzu
These little guys are true lap dogs. With a calm energy level and sweet personality, they’re perfect for apartment living. They do require regular brushing, but most enjoy the pampering.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These pups are eager to please and love cuddles. They’re known for their gentle nature, and short walks suit them just fine. Great for people who want a loyal friend with a soft coat.
Bichon Frise
These fluffy white dogs are hypoallergenic, making them ideal for people with allergies. They’re small, friendly, and easy to train. Just a note — they do require regular grooming.
Miniature Schnauzer
These dogs are alert, friendly, and like routine. Their activity level fits well with older adults who enjoy a few daily walks. Their short coat makes grooming easier.
Toy Poodle
Toy poodles are smart, low-shedding, and easy to train. They’re also very affectionate. Their size — usually under 20 pounds — makes them perfect small dogs for older adults.
Yorkshire Terrier
Also called Yorkies, these dogs are tiny but full of personality. They’re one of the best dog breeds for seniors who want a lively companion that enjoys short walks and lots of cuddles.
French Bulldog
Frenchies are becoming a popular small dog breed with their charming wrinkles and easy-going style. They don’t need long walks and love spending time beside their humans.
If you’re looking for your next furry friend, check out our friends at:
- Austin Pets Alive!
- Austin Dog Rescue
- Austin Humane Society
- Happy Hearts Dog Rescue
- Love and Puppy Paws Dog Rescue
They’re great places to meet good dog breeds for seniors who are looking for a forever home.
Matching Seniors and Dogs
Let’s match some human types with dog types:
Low-Mobility Seniors
- Best dog: Shih Tzu
- Why: They like short walks and lots of lap time.
Active Seniors
- Best dog: Miniature Schnauzer
- Why: They enjoy daily exercise and go for walks.
Allergy-Sensitive Seniors
- Best dog: Toy Poodle or Bichon Frise
- Why: They’re considered hypoallergenic dogs with lower shedding.
Social Seniors
- Best dog: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Why: These dogs love people and enjoy being part of a group. They’re great for seniors who like having visitors or going to community events. Their calm, friendly nature makes them easy to bring along.
Quiet-at-Home Seniors
- Best dog: Senior Rescue Dog
- Why: Older dogs often match well with low-key lifestyles. Many are already trained and just want a cozy home. They’re less energetic, usually enjoy a short walk, and love naps. Rescue groups often have senior dogs waiting for the right match, and they make amazing companions.
No matter the breed, it’s smart to consider a dog’s grooming needs. I’m the kind of dog who rarely sheds as an adult, and needs regular brushing and fur cuts. The maintenance of the pup you choose should also factor into your pick.
Making Friends – One Tail Wag at a Time
Dogs bring people together. I’ve seen neighbors who rarely talk start chatting because of me. I’ve been there when someone was having a tough day, and I helped turn things around. That’s why dogs make such a big impact on seniors living alone.
Dogs make life better whether you’re in a house or looking into assisted living in Austin at a community like SoCo Village.
Here, pets like me are part of the family. Residents have their own pets, and I help with pet therapy in memory care. Dogs give people comfort, peace of mind, and joy. Plus, we’re cute.
Bruno’s Final Thoughts
It’s never too early to plan for your future. That includes thinking about what kind of pet might match your lifestyle. It also means thinking about support, social time, and what you want life to look like in the years to come.
At SoCo Village, we support seniors at every stage — even if you’re still active and independent or beginning to need a little help. Our assisted living is personalized, and our memory care is full of support for residents and family members.
I may not have all the answers, but I know this: Life is better with furry and human friends. And I’d love to meet you.
So if you’re looking for new friends, and maybe also a pup like me, come by and say “hi.” I’ll be in the lobby waiting.
Find Assisted Living in Austin, TX with Bruno’s Help
Our team would like to thank Bruno for being such a well behaved ambassador for SoCo Village. He found his home here, and you can too! Contact us to schedule a visit!