What's it like to adopt a senior dog?
When looking for a four legged companion, many people look past senior dogs. Because..well.. everybody loves puppies. Puppies draw us in with their cute, small, rounded features and quirky personalities. Puppies often are a focal point for first time dog owners, young couples and even growing families. But adopting a puppy comes with a long to do list.
First you should know that puppies are expensive. In the first 6 - 12 months of adopting a puppy you will spend at least $1,000. When adopting a pup who is too young for most vaccines and shots - you will need to bear the cost of getting them up to date on vaccines and preventative care. Then, you will be drawn to buy them all sorts of cute, tiny, sparkly, polka dot items that they will outgrow. And feeding that puppy.... their first year is going to cost you a pretty penny! Puppy food is more expensive - usually double the cost of normal dog food, because puppies need all sorts of nutrients and extra vitamins. Maybe thats where the skunky puppy breath comes from.
Next you should know that puppies demand a lot of your time. Even the smartest of dogs will need guidance on how to be a good dog; teething, nipping, barking, and chewing on corners of furniture are all normal behaviors for puppies that will need to be shaped. Outside of bratty puppy behavior, your pup will need to be potty trained and learn leash walking skills.
Then, when your pup has learned how to be a dog, they will need to figure out how to act around other dogs and animals. Social skills are a make it or break it for young dogs.
50% of the dogs that we took into our rescue this year supposedly "did not get along with other dogs" due to lack of socialization and training in their younger years.
Without proper training and socialization, your puppy can be quite the handful. Many puppy parents say that they wish their job offered puppy-maternity leave because the first few months of bringing home a puppy will have many sleepless nights and long days of cleaning up stinky accidents.
While there are many challenges, responsibilities, and expenses that come with adopting a puppy, there are certainly many wonderful aspects of raising a puppy.
Before your family starts the search for a puppy, make a list of what you are looking for in a canine companion.
If your wishlist consists of qualities such as:
Loyal
Active
Obedient
Smart
Loving
Trustworthy
Funny
Quirky
Easy going
Well mannered
Healthy
Happy
Strong
...then you just outlined all of the best qualities of a senior dog.
Out of every stage in a dog's life, senior dogs are the most loyal, loving, and easy going. They won't chew your shoes, bark on long car rides, or pee on the door mat. They just want to be your side kick and join you on all of your adventures or be your little spoon on the couch.
Senior dogs who were family dogs and lived with children in their past homes will be gentle and tolerant with their kid siblings. If your adopting from a rescue that assesses behavior before adoption, you will know the dog's temperament and social savviness before committing. This means, you can find a dog who is already trained, obedient, and social. You can find your perfect match if you consider a senior dog.
Life long dog owners will tell you that senior dogs are your best bet at finding a well behaved dog. Seniors know how to be a good dog because they have been practicing for many years. They are just waiting for you to help them with their last and final chapter.
People often associate senior dogs with health issues and declining physical activity. But just like humans there are those seniors who hike mountains, run marathons, get tattoos, love to play, and want to have fun. Adopting a senior dog is not going to be dull and boring. Older dog's have some of the biggest and brightest personalities. They know how to have fun and realize life is too short not to let loose.
Seniors truly have the deepest and greatest appreciation for their people. Because they have loved before, they know how important and valuable a family or a companion is. They won't be distracted by the ice cream truck or a rain storm. They will prioritize being by your side and following your lead, because you are their world. They have seen the ways of the world and know how busy you are as a human. They cherish and respect their time with you.
Many senior dogs who are between ages 7-10 have a LOT of pep in their step! Even dogs who are past the big 10 can have that same energy, love, personality...it really depends on the dog!
Don't let age get in the way of you finding your perfect match. Just like us humans, we are as young as we feel!
If adopting a senior dog sounds like what your family has been looking for, please read about our fun loving, spunky Miss Gracie.
