A friendly dog can make the perfect sidekick for a senior citizen. According to PetBreeds, these 11 breeds are hardy and cheerful, making them excellent companion dogs. They are also highly intelligent and can be trained to assist less able-bodied owners.
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A Welsh terrier sleeps on a faded armchair.
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The friendly, playful Welsh terrier is known to be loving and independent.
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The Shiba Inu is a medium-sized dog known to be independent and outgoing, yet loyal and affectionate.
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The Xoloitzcuintli dog, also known as the Xolo or Mexican hairless dog, is cheerful and affectionate. It's known for being alert and intelligent, as well as protective and loyal.
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Biewers are a playful, social, toy-sized breed. They are very gentle and affectionate.
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The Tibetan spaniel is an independent, assertive and intelligent dog. A small, quiet breed, it's well suited to apartment living.
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The Lowchen is a small, affectionate breed. Lively and alert, these dogs are very playful and relatively easy to train.
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The Japanese Spitz is a small, playful breed. Loyal and affectionate, these dogs are low maintenance but need regular exercise.
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The Cardigan Welsh corgi is easy to train and does not need much exercise. These dogs are gentle, loving, loyal and alert.
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The medium-sized Irish terrier is cheerful, alert and playful, but can also be aggressive and protective. For this reason, Irish terriers make great guard dogs.
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The Icelandic sheepdog is a cheerful, medium-sized breed that weighs about 25 pounds. Friendly and affectionate, Icelandic sheepdogs enjoy having space to roam.
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The American Eskimo dog is independent and great with children. This medium-sized breed weighs about 30 pounds and known for its intelligence. These dogs are energetic and talkative.
