Have you thought of adopting an older dog from a rescue group. They need homes too. Last golden we adopted out was about 9 years old. Andy had arthritis, and people kept wanting to adopt him so they could take him on a hike or take himfor a run and we had to say no. Then one day, a retired lady came by. She also has arthritis so she knew his pain and he understood her pain. It was a good match.

The nice woman and we stayed in touch and just last year, she had to bury Andy. She had 5 or so wonderful years with her companion dog. He was special. She is an incredible woman for willing to take in an older dog.

As for older dogs learning to get along with cats, when Andy came to our house, he knew right off that he was not to bother the cats. We never had to train him. He just knew.

6, 7, 8 year old retriever or other kinds of dogs will fit your need. low energy dog and good with cats. A rescue group may even give you a break on the adoption fee. Group I work with do give discounts to older animals because they are so much more difficult to find homes.

Take time to find a new dog. It's their "forever home". Please keep that in mind when you adopt. and I wish you the best.