Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog

Thinking of adopting a dog from your local shelter? Before you head straight to those adorable puppies, consider taking a look at some of the older ‘inmates’. Senior dogs need homes, too, and they can provide you with just as much love as a puppy can. Here are some great reasons to adopt a senior dog from your local shelter.

Thinking of adopting a dog from your local shelter? Before you head straight to those adorable puppies, consider taking a look at some of the older ‘inmates’. Senior dogs need homes, too, and they can provide you with just as much love as a puppy can. Here are some great reasons to adopt a senior dog from your local shelter.

No ‘puppy problems’

If you’ve ever had a puppy, you’ll know that there are some problems that all puppies have, namely chewing and potty training. Of course, chewing isn’t just a puppy problem, but it is more likely to happen with puppies than with older dogs. Trying to housebreak a puppy can be exhausting and frustrating, but a senior dog is probably already housebroken. This means less mess for you to clean up and more time to love on your new friend.

Fewer training issues

Many older dogs have already been trained somewhat. Some have even been through obedience lessons. Of course, you can also teach your new senior dog the behavioural tricks you want them to know--many learn more quickly than puppies because they are less easily distracted. This means your senior dog is more likely to fit right into your household with a smooth transition, which is better for everyone.

You know what to expect

Have you ever had a cute, tiny puppy that grew to an enormous size? Well, when you adopt a full grown dog, you don’t have those awkward surprises to deal with. What you see is what you get with older dogs, and you may even be able to find a purebred senior dog, too.

Calmer dogs

If you need a calm, easygoing dog, a senior dog could be the answer. They’re great for homes with senior citizens because they aren’t as hyper as puppies and younger dogs. They may even tolerate small children better than younger dogs, but never leave your senior dog unsupervised with your child just in case the dog’s patience wears thin!

Older dogs need love, too

Puppies are adorable, but they aren’t the only ones who need and deserve to be loved. You can become your senior dog’s hero by opening up your home to him, and you’ll receive a lifetime of love in return.

For more information on preparing your home for an older dog, visit Bark Busters today.