The last few years have seen many of us welcome a new four-legged friend into our homes, as the UK Kennel Club has seen dog ownership soar to record levels.
Around one-in-three UK households now include at least one four-legged friend of the canine kind.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your perfect pup – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.
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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1. Pug
For people with mobility issues, Pugs make the perfect pet. These little character would rather nap on the couch that go for a run and spend most of their time indoors. They tend to be quite quiet and require very little grooming. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
2. West Highland Terrier
West Highland Terriers are great companion pet that combine small stature with a big lyal 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
3. 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
4. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Famously Queen Elizabeth II's favourite dog, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is perfect for active seniors as they need several short walks a day. Otherwise they are simple to groom, are desperate to please and are very protective of their owners. Photo: Canva/Getty Images