A good companion breed for older folks

[MintyfreshSW]

My parents are in their sixties and tbh not the most active. They had an Italian greyhound for 16 years but as she got older she didn’t require lots of exercise.
They were heartbroken by her passing and a year later are starting to consider if they would like another dog.
They would be suited to a smaller breed as they love to take their camper van away at weekends with the dog, and one that’s a good companion/lap dog who doesn’t need hours of walking a day.
Any recommendations?

If an older dogs works well for them then I would definitely consider an older rescue. The puppy stage can be very hard work.

I think people just see cute little dogs and don't really think about their genetics.

They're also problem barkers - every dachshund on every dog show I've ever seen has been a barker 😂

I think people just see cute little dogs and don't really think about their genetics.

They're also problem barkers - every dachshund on every dog show I've ever seen has been a barker

I think you're right. People seem to see them as cute dogs and don't bother to research before getting one. We met someone the other day who had 2 and said they'd got them because they thought they were "cute little lap dogs and didn't need much walking" 🤦‍♀️

And they are indeed barky little sods

I also find them very aloof dogs? I dont think I have ever met one who wanted to be pet!

@MintyfreshSW yeah, they're not great with strangers. The ones I know do love to be with their owners though!

@Ylvamoon so take them to a suitable fenced off exercise field...? I don't know why you can't relax holding a lead. Are you ok?

My friend who is physically disabled has a Lhasa Apso and he’s brilliant, small without being under feet, steady, quiet, loves a walk but doesn’t pull on the lead, is happy with a short walk twice a day, little play then he lies at her feet in between.

We have a Cavachon, and he doesn't need lots of walking. Usually a couple of short walks but sometimes I do one longer walk (around 45 mins)

The Cinnamon Trust is a very good suggestion. If they want an older dog to avoid the puppy stage I'd think they’d be more likely to find a rescue small toy breed with them than some of the other charities. Most of the small toy breeds would be ideal for them.
Just as a point of interest, I have a motorhome & always take my four dogs with me, never holidayed without them, & many a time been on campsites where someone has had their pet cat along for the holiday 😁. Most on leads with harnesses but some just let them roam. Amazed at how they don’t get left behind but one owner told me as soon as the engine starts up the cat’s there ready for off!
Even once met a chap with his pet parrot along for the ride spent all it's time, when he was out walking or sitting in the sun, perched on his shoulder!
Is it one of the smaller VW camper vans or a bigger motorhome they have as that would influence how much floor space they had of course?