Why Senior Dogs Make Great Pets

Animal shelters are filled with older dogs waiting to be adopted by a loving family. Older adult dogs are more often overlooked in favor of younger dogs and puppies and, as a result, senior dogs are at an increased risk for euthanasia. But senior dogs often make the best pets. Below are six reasons to consider adopting an older dog.

You’ll Have More Information

There will be fewer unknowns when adopting an older dog. Since they’re already full-grown, there won’t be any questions about how big they could get and what their grooming requirements will be.

Another major benefit is that older adult dogs will already have established temperaments and personalities. Older dogs’ behaviors are more predictable because their personalities are already well developed, so you will have a better idea if the dog is shy, friendly, calm, energetic, gets along well with other animals, likes kids, etc. Knowing more about a dog’s personality type will make it easier to choose the right dog for your household and lifestyle.

Older Dogs Often Require Less Training

Unlike puppies, most older dogs have already had potty training and have grown out of destructive habits like chewing household items. Adult dogs usually don’t need constant monitoring like puppies and usually know what “no” means. Older dogs, especially those who have experienced love and affection in the past, will try to please you by being obedient and well-behaved.

Senior Dogs Are Less Physically Demanding

Older dogs usually don’t require as much physical activity and playtime as highly-energetic, untrained puppies. That’s not to say that older dogs don’t need exercise. They still need to be walked and interacted with because it’s good for their physical and mental health, but they’re also more content to relax and enjoy some downtime.

Older Dogs Are Great Companions

Many senior dogs have already had years of experience as a household pet and have ended up in a shelter through no fault of their own. Often older dogs are placed in shelters because their owners have relocated, had financial hardships, or have passed away. These dogs are already socialized and know how to get along with humans. They are usually ready for love and affection and are quick to form a bond with you.

“Senior” Status Doesn’t Indicate Longevity

One of the biggest hesitations people have with adopting a senior dog is that they worry they’ll fall in love with the dog but only have a short time with it before it passes away. Dogs are usually classified as “senior” if they’re 7 or older, but different dog breeds age at different paces, so “senior” status really varies from dog to dog. The average lifespan of a dog is 10-13 years, but many dogs live well beyond that (some even up to 20 years!).

It’s important to remember that the length of any dog’s life is never guaranteed, and sadly, even young dogs can pass away unexpectedly. Quality of time together matters so much more than quantity.

You Can Save an Older Dog’s Life

Shelters are frequently overcrowded and senior dogs are the least likely to be adopted, which means they make up the largest percentage of dogs that are euthanized every year.

If you adopt a senior dog, you will truly be saving its life. So if you’re considering adopting a dog, don’t overlook the easy-going, loving, calm, trained senior dogs who will be forever grateful for your love.

You can search for senior pets to adopt online at www.adoptapet.com/adopt-a-senior-pet, or by visiting your local non-profit animal shelter.