Adopting a Senior Dog

Why not share your love with a senior dog?

As you consider the age of the dog you wish to adopt and welcome into your family, consider the joys and merits of adopting a senior dog. A dog aged seven years or older is considered a “senior” dog. Dogs of this age are more experienced and usually have a more established temperament and can easily adapt to a new, loving home. Having left puppy days behind, a senior dog will quickly become a loyal and loving companion, usually without the need for house training and obedience training, as he will have accomplished this learning earlier in his life.

This is not to say that an older dog won’t enjoy the training experience with you - he will! Older pups have a longer attention span than puppies and often thrive on such quality one-on-one time with their owner.

Another consideration is that an older dog may be a good choice for an older person. An older dog usually has slowed down some and would make a great companion for someone who may have slowed down himself (or herself)!

Are you concerned that there must be something “wrong” with a senior dog who has found himself in need of a new home? Don't be, as this is seldom the case. More likely, there has been a change in circumstances in the dog's former home, such as a move, divorce, travel obligations, illness or death in the family.

Like canines of all ages, senior dogs need love and security. They also need good nutrition, exercise appropriate for their age and abilities, and regular medical care. The cost of medical care for an older dog is not necessarily greater than that for a young dog, and all of the young-dog expenses have already been paid!

While a puppy or young dog might be considered a promise yet to come, the joy of a senior dog can be thought of as wisdom already demonstrated. Seniors offer unlimited loyalty and companionship and ask for little in return. They have proven their worth and are waiting to show you their devotion and add value to your life - just as you will add value to theirs.