6 Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog
Updated On: Friday, November 15, 2024 10:03:20 AM America/Los_Angeles
Most people walk into a pet shop or humane shelter with a specific idea for what kind of pal they want to take home. Some want a small white long-haired dog that’s reminiscent of a cotton candy puff, others want a large short-haired dog with brown spots. Many want puppies, some want adolescent dogs. Perhaps if you have small children, a family-friendly dog is what you’re searching for. Maybe you live in an apartment with strict dog breed specifications and just want an apartment-friendly companion that steers clear of the “no-fly” list.
One category that people tend to overlook is senior dogs. There are a lot of really great things about adopting an older pup, so let’s consider them and determine if an older dog is the right pal for you!
1. You might just be saving their life.
Giving an older dog a loving, comfortable home is a great feeling. Pet shops, humane societies, and pounds can be loud and uncomfortable- especially for older dogs. Oftentimes, pounds will put down elderly dogs if they aren’t adopted quickly because they’re overcrowded. Be a guardian angel and save an innocent life.
2. No need to worry about housebreaking- they’re already trained!
With age comes experience. It’s likely that these old timers have already been trained by previous owners, so the hard work of potty training and raising your pup is already done! Now you can just enjoy their furry, loving presence and deal with fewer messes.
3. They’re so easy to train!
Whoever said that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Older dogs have been learning behaviors and commands for years, so why not teach them a few new ones? Teaching them how to use an indoor pet potty like DoggieLawn comes to mind- especially if they begin to find it difficult to get around. If they’re feeling up to the challenge, maybe you could teach them how to give hugs and bark on command!
4. Laidback and fancy free.
Older dogs have usually lost a lot of the hyper-activeness of puppyhood and tend to be more even-keeled. Their calm demeanors make them great therapy and family dogs. Not only are older dogs gentle with kids, but they’re also wonderful for older folks who don’t have the energy to care of a spritely, high-strung pup.
5. They’re instant companions.
Older dogs know what behaviors are expected- whether you’re going on one of your daily walks or working out in the park. They’ll stick to you like glue without getting distracted and running off. Oh, and they also make amazing snuggle buddies!
6. Older dogs have established personalities.
Their personalities are more established than a puppy or adolescent pups, so it’s easier for you to tell how well they’ll fit into your household- whether you have a big family, or a small one with other animals. You can depend on an elderly dog to be consistent!
If you decide to add a senior dog to your family, be sure to check out this article on how to get your home ready for them!
