UK Kennel Club figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged during recent years – with around one-in-three UK households now including at least one four-legged friend.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
While every person has different needs, for slightly older dog owners it can be worth looking for a dog with a particular range of attributes.
Breeds needing less in the way of grooming and exercise are easier to care for by those with mobility issues, while dogs with the right easy-going temparament make loyal and loving companions for people living alone.
Here are 10 of the breeds that tick all of these boxes, according to the American Kennel Club.
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5. Greyhound
Greyhounds are gentle and affectionate dogs that make a great companion for people later in life. Adopting one of the many adult Greyhounds looking for a new home can also mean there's no need to deal with an energetic and untrained puppy. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. West Highland Terrier
West Highland Terriers are great companion pets that combine small stature with a big loyal personality. A couple of 15 minute walks each day will give them all the excercise they need and they are very easy to train. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Poodle
Poodles - Standard, Miniature, or Toy - have every attribute needed to make a great companion dog. They are hugely intelligent and loving, easy to train, only need walked once a day, and only need groomed once a month. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers tend to be completely devoted to their owners, who they enjoy sitting quietly beside for long periods. Their short coat means they need little in the way of grooming and are easy to care for generally. Photo: Canva/Getty Images