The Benefits of Adopting a Senior Dog

Abbott & Costello, Rat Terrier Mixes, smiling at the camera

Why You Should Consider Giving an Older Pup a Forever Home:

So you are thinking about adopting a senior dog but need that final push of motivation to do it. Well, you came to the right place. Adopting a dog of any age can seem daunting, so the idea of adopting a senior dog might make you want to run for the hills with your tail between your legs. Luckily for you (and the many other people who have rescued a senior dog), it isn’t as scary as you think. In fact, there are actually quite a few benefits to adopting an older dog that you should know about. Read on to learn about just a few of the many reasons to adopt a senior dog!

They Are Easier to Care For:

One of the most common misconceptions about senior dogs is that they require a lot of care and attention. This isn’t necessarily true. In fact, some might say that senior dogs are actually easier to care for. Think about it – instead of requiring a long walk twice a day with lots of playtime in between to get those zoomies out, senior dogs are totally content with a small walk and lots of downtime to relax at home and cuddle with you. And trust me when I say this: There is NOTHING like a good senior dog snuggle session.

They Are Great Movie Night Companions:

Speaking of relaxing at home, you’ll never have to watch Netflix by yourself again. “Older Dog” is just another way of saying “Ultimate Movie Night Companion.” They will never say no to ordering a large cheese pizza, throwing on some pjs, and watching the entire first season of Game of Thrones in one sitting. And the cherry on top? They won’t hog the popcorn bucket or eat all your M&Ms!

They Are Already Trained:

Another advantage to adopting an older dog is that they don’t require as much behavioral training. Unlike a puppy, senior dogs are typically already potty trained, and they are usually familiar with basic commands too. You won’t have to worry about waking up every few hours throughout the night to let them out, worry about leash training, or even teach them not to jump on house guests. And that pesky teething phase that all puppies go through? Senior dogs have been there, and done that. Your furniture (and hands) won’t have to take any abuse from those insanely sharp baby teeth. Although it’s rare, sometimes a senior dog may need a little socialization. Check out our article on how to socialize your senior dog to learn more!

They Give You More Time:

One of the biggest advantages of adopting a senior dog is time. Senior dogs don’t need as much supervision as a young dog does, so you’ll never have to race home to make sure your white carpet hasn’t turned yellow or worry that the dog ate your couch or dug a 3-foot-deep hole in your yard. Rescuing an older dog means you’ll have a lot more time on your hands to maintain your freedom and keep living the life you want to live, all while having a loving companion awaiting your arrival at home. Some people call this having your (dog-friendly) cake and eating it too.

This is also one of the many reasons why older dogs are perfect for all of the busy people out there in their 20s and 30s! If you want to learn more, check out all the reasons why senior dogs make great companions for young people here!

They Are Still Full of Life:

Some people think that older dogs have their entire lives behind them, so there is no point in rescuing one. In reality, senior dogs still have a lot of life to live, love to give and fun to be had! They just need someone to do it all with. Believe it or not, being in their golden years won’t have any effect on their sweet and happy personalities. Their faces will still light up when you offer them their favorite treat or get them a new toy. Their hearts will still be filled with joy when you do their favorite activities together. They are just like younger dogs but with a few extra years of experience! If you want some fun activities to do with your senior dog, check out our senior dog bucket list!

Senior Dog Adoption Is Rewarding:

This is just a small example of all the pros of rescuing an older dog. But if these reasons didn’t convince you, just know this: Senior dog rescuing can be one of the most rewarding things you ever do. You’ll be giving an older dog a second chance at life, and ensuring that their last years are their best. But senior dog adoption isn’t just beneficial for the dog, it’ll be good for you too. Just imagine all of the appreciation and devotion you will be getting in return for caring for these amazing dogs. It’ll be an endless amount of love that you can’t really get anywhere else. It doesn’t matter if you have them for one year or five; they will completely change your life just like you are changing theirs.

If you are thinking about adopting a dog, we urge you to consider adopting a senior dog. They make wonderful companions and they deserve a loving home just like any other dog.

 

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