Senior dogs are often overlooked in shelters as people tend to gravitate toward younger, more energetic pups. However, adopting a senior dog can be a deeply rewarding experience for both the dog and the owner, no matter your age. Be you a Boomer, Gen Xer, millennial, Gen Zer, or whatever generational label comes next, senior dogs have a lot to offer, and adopting one can be a truly life-changing experience — for both you and your new (old) canine companion. By adopting a senior dog, you’re not only potentially saving them from euthanasia, but you’re also giving them a second chance to live what life they have left to the fullest. Read on for some of the advantages of adopting an older dog.
The benefits of adopting a senior dog
They are often already trained
Maybe you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but chances are, your old dog already knows plenty. Most gray-muzzled pups have learned the ins and outs of obedience, and since they’ve been around the block (there’s a leash-training joke in there somewhere), they’re likely also house-trained and/or crate-trained, and may even have experience around other pets. In short, many older canines come equipped with excellent manners, thereby reducing the time, energy, and expense associated with training.
Senior dogs know how to chill
Senior dogs know what this life thing is all about. They don’t sweat the small stuff (or bark at it). Older pups are often calmer and more relaxed than younger dogs. The puppy phase is long behind them and their energy level has mellowed out. They don’t need as much activity as younger dogs, and are happy just being your couch potato pal.
Senior dogs make loyal companions
Senior dogs know what matters most: family. They just want to love and be loved. As such, they don’t need to chase down every squirrel in the neighborhood or play fetch for hours on end. They just want to be near you.
Senior dogs are often less expensive
Because senior dogs are less “desirable” than puppies or young dogs on the shelter scene, their adoption fees will likely be lower. What’s more, they are past that (expensive) early puppy phase that requires spay/neuter surgery and a lot of vaccinations and vet visits. Overall, a canine on the elderly side can make dog ownership more financially feasible for prospective dog owners on a budget.
Older dogs can fit in with many kinds of households
While puppies require a level of attention, stimulation, and exercise that practically demands a dog owner to be on-call 24/7, a senior dog is lower-maintenance, thereby fitting in with many kinds of lifestyles, be it a young single person, a couple without children, or a family of any size. Because of their age and experience, senior dogs are, in many cases, very adaptable and can fit in with all kinds of households.
Where to adopt a senior dog
Senior dogs have a lot of love to give and will be grateful to do so in your home. If you want to help an older pup thrive by adopting them, visit your local Humane Society. You can also search for rescue organizations near you that specialize in rehoming senior dogs.
This article was written in collaboration with ChatGPT.
