Older dogs often get overlooked in shelters for the more adorable and energetic younger dogs.
Maybe you think that adopting a senior dog means that your time with your new best friend will be cut short because of his age.
Don’t think of it as quantity of time, but more like quality of time.
Here are some other reasons to adopt a senior dog.
7 Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog
1- He is an open book:
What you see is what you get with an older dog (kind of like older people). You don’t have to worry about how big he will get or what kind of health problems he might have down the road due to genetics or breeding issues, you will know all of that when you choose him.
2- Contrary to popular belief…
He is easy to train. Just because he is older doesn’t mean he doesn’t want to please you! He has years of experience reading our human behavior, as opposed to the puppy who is just learning. Being older, wiser and calmer, he is able to just focus on you and what you are wanting him to do.
3- Loving:
Not that youngsters aren’t loving, but seniors have a special love for you for taking them in during their golden years. Not many people do, which is why we want to get the word out that adopting a senior dog is not only great for him but great for you!
4- They are not a puppy:
What I mean is, you are not bringing a brand new 8 week old puppy in your home, he is not going to be a 24-7 job for a few months. He is house trained, he knows a few tricks of his own, and he most likely won’t have separation anxiety when you leave for work. Your favorite shoes and newspaper will also be saved from chewing.
5- Enjoys the easy life:
Not an active person? A senior dog is great for you! He has seen his most active years, and like older humans, just wants to relax. He still wants to go on his daily walk, it helps to keep him moving, which is important for everyone, but he might not care for a hike up a mountain or a long trek through the woods. He will be perfectly happy laying at your feet or next to you on the couch.
6- His best days:
There is not much that is greater than knowing that you are giving a second chance to an old dog and letting him live out the rest of his days in your loving home, instead of a shelter.
7- Commitment:
If you bring a puppy home, you are looking at about an 8 to possibly 20 year commitment. But will your life in 10 years still be accommodating to being a dog owner? Adopting a senior dog is a commitment, don’t get me wrong, but not as great of one as bringing home a puppy. Enjoy the years you have left with him, and he will be a very happy, old dog.
Adopting a senior dog is special, for both you and lucky dog you choose. Many often go into adoption thinking they are saving the dog, but really the dog does so much more for you. It is a beautiful relationship. So, don’t think about the time you will have left with your dog, and just make it the best time you can with your new best friend.
