Senior dogs are not just adorable, they also have potential to be the perfect addition to your family. They can be just as loving and loyal as younger dogs and puppies, they’re just looking for someone to give them a chance to prove it.
Here are 5 good reasons to why you should consider adopting a senior dog:
1. Older dogs need a home too
Did you know that most senior dogs never make it out of shelters? This is because potential adopters always tend to overlook adult and senior dogs and make a beeline for puppies and this is the sad reality.
These older dogs were most likely owned, loved and abandoned by their family for no fault of their own. They were cruelly robbed of their comfort and security overnight and abandoned at the shelters, having to live in fear of not knowing what happened to their humans. They’re always desperately looking for kindness in every person that passes by but they never get noticed, just because they’re older.
2. Skip through the teething period
How often do you hear pet owners complaining about their destructive new puppy? You don’t have to experience the nightmare of having your furniture, clothes and carpets damaged if you adopt an adult or elderly dog.
This is because these guys have already moved past that stage and are capable of understanding instructions faster than a puppy can, and therefore, are less likely to be destructive.
3. Old dogs can learn new tricks
Unlike the false popular belief, older dogs are always eager to learn new tricks!
Dogs can be trained at any age, especially a senior dog, who is willing to go above and beyond to impress you if they’re given a chance to be part of a loving home. They will reward you with unwavering devotion and are sure to surprise you with how quickly they learn things.
4. Senior dogs require less time and supervision
The adage ‘The older you get, the wiser you become’ applies to dogs as well! Senior dogs have already experienced many things in life and are quick to understand and adjust to new places and instructions.
They don’t have the energy outbursts that puppies do and require less training as they already understand the basics. Unlike puppies that can’t spend the night without a bathroom break and end up dirtying the house, older dogs are quick to know that they have to go outdoors to do their business.
Also, older dogs that have already experienced love and affection once will try their best to please you by being obedient and showing off their good manners and tricks, and require little to no supervision.
5. You know what you’re getting
Older dogs have a developed temperament and personality, unlike puppies where you have no clue of what they’ll grow to be. They come with less surprises as it’s easier to understand their already established personalities and find the right match for you.
With older dogs, it’s easier to decide which dog will fit into your family and lifestyle.
So the next time you or someone else you know visit a shelter, please remember to give the older dogs a fair chance at a loving home as well!
