Adopting a senior dog: Is older better?
Rambunctious puppies aren’t for everyone.
When people talk about adopting a dog, it may be a cliché to assume that they will want an energetic, playful puppy, or at the very least, a young adult dog. Deserving as those dogs are of loving homes, they may not be the best choice for everyone. After all, it takes plenty of energy to care for an energetic younger dog. For that reason alone, a senior dog may be a better choice for some.
Here are just a few of the many great reasons you may want to consider adopting on older dog:
A good home for a deserving dog.
Fact is, our nation's shelters and rescue organisations always house needy older dogs, and usually those animals wait far longer to find a good home than younger dogs.
Spend less time training and more time enjoying.
Older dogs are almost always housebroken and don't require the commitment of time and dedication needed to teach a puppy the rules of bathroom etiquette, not to mention time spent cleaning up little 'surprises'! You know what you're getting. Senior dogs are fully grown and mature; so you know exactly what type of dog you're getting in terms of size and temperament, rather than guessing with a puppy.
Older really IS wiser, in many cases.
Mature, obedient dogs are generally more patient, more 'knowledgeable,' less rambunctious, and more disciplined than jumping-bumping-sliding-running-chewing pups. Older dogs are accustomed to normal everyday schedules. Want a good, uninterrupted night's sleep? You're more likely to get it with an older dog versus a puppy. With older dogs, bathroom breaks, feedings, and playtime are usually reserved for daytime.
No gnaws, nips, or bites.
Older dogs have already gone through the teething phase, sparing your dining room furniture, best pair of shoes, and favourite underwear from chew marks. Older dogs can sometimes be trusted for longer periods alone. Of course, you should never leave him alone for longer than necessary. After all, senior dogs are eager for your company—even if they don't show it by jumping all over you when you walk in the door.