6 Excellent Reasons to Adopt a Senior Dog

 This is a guest article written by Alexandra Seagal. Alexandra is a dedicated dog owner and a firm believer in the advancement of owner education and knowledge. Her website, Animalso.com, provides comprehensive information on dogs, from breeds characteristics to behavior and training to healthy nutrition. By providing simple and actionable advice, Alexandra hopes to help all dog owners become better dog owners.

Often when some people envision a dog in their household, they think of a puppy. But one of the best kinds of dogs to bring into your family is the senior dog. Shelters are full of older dogs who are in need of a kind word and a loving home, and these seniors are often overlooked for younger dogs and puppies.

Senior dogs can make wonderful pets, and are even easier to care for than a puppy. Here are 6 excellent reasons to adopt a senior dog:

1. You’re giving an older dog a new “leash” on life.

Because so many people prefer to adopt a puppy, senior dogs who have been surrendered to shelters are often euthanized because of low adoptability and shelter overpopulation. By adopting a “golden oldie,” you are saving that dog’s life and making that dog’s golden years count.

2. They are less demanding.

Puppies are just babies who want attention all the time, and they’re likely to do something destructive if that attention is lacking. Older dogs are calmer and have less energy than puppies, and they are better at adapting to new environments.

A puppy can take up lots of time and energy, while a senior will not demand much more of you than love, kindness, and nutritious food.

3. They are already trained.

Many older dogs have already been trained to follow basic commands like “sit,” “lay down,” and “stay.” These dogs are familiar with what is expected of them.

They also have been house-trained, so you will not have to spend the time and money that is needed to crate train, potty train, and clean up after a puppy who is unaware of where to eliminate.

You also needn’t worry about seniors chewing up your favorite pair of shoes or socks, as a puppy would. Most adults dogs have passed this phase and are more interested in cuddling with you than nibbling on your garments.

4. Senior dogs are not “problem dogs.”

Some people have the erroneous belief that older dogs surrendered to shelters are dogs who are a problem or dangerous to others. In fact, the majority of adults dogs in shelters are there through no fault of their own. Many are there because their owner passed away, allergies, a new baby in the house, or because the novelty of owning them wore off.

Older dogs need a loving, stable home just as much as younger dogs do.

5. They are less expensive.

Puppies come with many start-up costs, some of which cover multiple veterinary visits for vaccinations and check-ups as well as any physical damage they might do to a home. Senior dogs needn’t get the same number of shots or vet visits as a puppy, and they are far less likely to cost you money for home repairs.

6. Old dogs can learn new tricks.

Senior dogs are perfectly capable of being trained to learn new commands and tricks. In fact, it’s a good idea to continue positive training with dogs as they age because that keeps their bodies active and their minds sharp.

You needn’t worry about adopting an older dog who is set in his ways. Senior dogs are able and willing to learn with some patience and consistency on your part.

If you are planning on adopting a dog, be sure to look at the older dogs at the local shelter. They make great companions and are less demanding of your energy and time. Best of all, when you adopt a senior, you are saving his life.

Here at The AnswerBank we are dedicated to providing our readers with a community of like-minded people to help answer their questions. If you have any questions about getting or looking after a dog, ask The AnswerBank community in our Pets section.