Senior dogs are amazing! Don’t dismiss the idea of adopting a senior dog. There are so many benefits to opening your home up to those cute gray whiskers! Below are 10 reasons to adopt a senior dog!
1. Senior dogs have been around the block.
They are well beyond the puppy stage. No need to worry about sleepless nights or a seemingly endless supply of puppy energy! You also won’t need to worry about your favorite pair of shoes getting destroyed from sharp puppy teeth.
2. Senior dogs sleep A LOT
If you are looking for a more laid back couch companion then a senior dog may be just what you need!
3. Senior dogs tend to have some training under their belt.
In their life, before you, they may already have learned basic commands. They also require much less supervision than young pups.
4. You are doing a wonderful thing!
It is a great service to open your home to an older dog, knowing that the time you have with them will be limited in comparison to adopting a puppy.
5. You are freeing up more space in a shelter.
It is common knowledge that senior dogs have a difficult time getting adopted. By adopting an older dog then the time they would have spent in the shelter may even free up spots for multiple dogs (over time).
6. They are full of love.
What they lack in years left on earth they more than make up for with love and gratitude.
7. Their personality is fully developed.
What you see is what you get! You don’t need to wonder how their personality will turn out as adults.
8. Old dogs CAN learn new tricks!
It is a myth that old dogs can’t learn new things. When training an older dog they will benefit from patience and accommodations. For example, when teaching them to stay, laying down may be more comfortable for them than sitting.
9. Senior dogs require less exercise.
All dogs need exercise, however, an older dog may be positively pooped after a 20-minute walk whereas a 1-year-old may enjoy a 45-minute jog and still be bursting with energy!
10. Senior dogs have a story to tell.
There is just something so comforting and special about an old dog’s soul!
11. Senior dogs have more time left than you may think.
Some dogs live well past their projected life expectancy for their breed. Also as a general rule mixed dogs tend to live longer than their purebred counterparts.
12. They are stinkin’ cute!
I’m a firm believer that dogs’ cuteness enhances with age! Just look at those silver faces, who can resist?
13. Senior dogs tend to go with the flow.
They can easily adapt to your schedule. They tend to match the energy of your house. If you are sleeping, they sleep. If your house is full of activity then they will want to watch the action unfold!
Some Things to Consider Before you Adopt a Senior
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention some of the downsides involved when you open your home to a senior dog.
- Your senior is likely to face some health issues sooner rather than later. You may incur veterinary bills to address these issues. It’s important to think about whether you want to invest in pet health insurance. The monthly cost for pet insurance will increase for older dogs. Also, many insurance policies will not cover preexisting conditions. You can learn more about health issues that impact senior dogs HERE.
- Be prepared to make accommodations to make their life (and yours easier). For example, your dog may need more frequent bathroom breaks if it develops urinary incontinence. You may need to alter your work schedule or hire a dog walker to accommodate your dog’s needs. They also have daily sophisticated doggy diapers that can help save your carpets! Your elderly pup may also benefit from stair ramps if you let them on the couch or bed. However, it bears mentioning that adopting a dog of any age is a major life change!
Have you thought about booking a photoshoot for your senior doggo? If so learn more about our Legacy Sessions HERE!
