5 Great Reasons To Adopt a Senior Dog

When you adopt a senior dog, it can be an enriching experience. Older dogs need homes just as much as younger pups. So, if you’re considering a senior, keep reading to learn the benefits and how to set your expectations. If you haven’t considered senior dog adoption, know you might fall in love with the idea after this article! 

What Is Considered a Senior Dog? 

A dog is generally considered to reach its senior years when 7 or older. However, the age can vary depending on the breed and size of the dog. For example, small breeds tend to live longer than large breeds, so they may not be considered seniors until 10 or 11 years old. In contrast, large dogs reach their senior years between seven and eight. 

As dogs age, they may experience a number of changes, including decreased energy levels and changes in appetite. They can also have an increased risk of health problems as well as changes in vision or hearing.

What Can You Expect When Adopting a Senior Dog?

Senior dog adoption can require more care. But it largely depends on the dog since not all seniors experience health issues or need special care. However, there are some things to keep in mind so you’re not caught off guard.

Senior dogs are more likely to have health problems than younger dogs. Caring for an older dog is usually a bit different than a young dog. While you’ll deal with more stiffness and arthritis, you probably won’t have to worry about eating the couch or kids’ toys. This is something to be aware of and prepared for financially and emotionally. 

One of the nice things about adopting a senior dog, however, is they’re likely to be house-trained. Still, it’s always a good idea to start with crate training and take them outside frequently. Getting them into a routine in their new home is critical. A senior may also be less active than a younger dog, so shorter walks and less playtime are often the norm. However, scheduling some into your routine can help prevent some health issues, like becoming overweight.

You can also expect most senior dogs to be affectionate and mellow. They’ll likely be more interested in cuddling and spending time with their humans. Overall, adopting a senior dog can be a rewarding experience. Senior dogs are loving and loyal companions who can bring years of joy into your life.

5 Great Reasons To Adopt a Senior Dog

There are numerous reasons to adopt a senior dog, so it was hard to narrow it down. But we’ve come up with the top five reasons you should consider one of these elderly furbabies the next time you adopt.

1. Senior Dogs Really Need Homes

Senior dogs need homes just as much as or more than puppies and young adult dogs. Unfortunately, seniors can sometimes be overlooked in shelters because people fear the care that may be involved. They also consider the life expectancy left in an old versus young dog.

Senior dogs also don’t cope well with the stress of being in a shelter like younger dogs do. While many shelters try to find foster dog parents for senior dogs, this is not always achievable. At their shelter, the environment can be disruptive and detrimental to their well-being, making them vulnerable to illness and depression.

Seeing a senior dog in a shelter can be heartbreaking, as seniors deserve to live out the rest of their days in a loving home. Often they are there because their owners have passed away or could no longer care for them. These dogs are used to loving homes, and they make excellent companions. So, if you see a senior dog in a shelter, consider rescuing it.

2. They’re Calmer Than a Puppy

We all know puppies are typically quite energetic and require much of your attention. If that seems like too much to handle in your life right now, consider adopting a senior dog. Senior dogs’ bodies are naturally slowing down, and they tend to be calmer. Much of their day is ideally spent sleeping or relaxing. They’re often the easy-going member of the family, and will happily join you for leisurely strolls, reading the paper, and watching TV. Also, they can make great additions for households that have mobility issues and can’t handle a younger dog with a lot of energy. 

3. They Usually Require Less Time and Supervision

Senior dogs often are already potty trained and have grown out of any destructive phase, so they usually require less time and supervision. They tend to sleep more and don’t need constant supervision in the house. Walking and playing time usually reduces with senior dogs too. If you have a full schedule, a senior dog could fit your lifestyle better than a young pup that requires time and supervision. 

4. They’re Likely to Be Trained

As we’ve mentioned, when you adopt a senior dog, there’s a greater chance that it’s been trained. Having skills like being potty trained and knowing basic commands saves you time from having to teach them. It also lets you focus on settling your pet into its new home and spending quality time with it rather than correcting behaviors.

Beyond some basic commands, they also often have the invaluable experience of just knowing what behaviors are acceptable or not. Depending on their background, they may even be exposed to many things young dogs haven’t yet. Things like cats, cars, kids, strangers, and other new things may be old news and non-issues with seniors.

But don’t worry, if there are new things you want to teach your new senior dog, you can teach old dogs new tricks!

5. They’re Excellent Companions

Senior dogs make excellent friends. They provide unconditional love in response to being invited into your home and being cared for. Being in a shelter can be scary for an older dog, and they’re looking for a sense of comfort. You may also find they’re more affectionate, cuddly, and loyal after being rescued. There is something special about the golden years of a dog where their smiles become more precious, and their senior mannerisms become even more adorable.

We absolutely love our dogs’ older years. They viewed the world with patient wisdom that young dogs just don’t have yet. It’s almost like they’ve spent long enough deciphering humans that they just might really understand what we’re doing and what we’re saying to them.

The Challenges of Adopting a Senior Dog, And How To Overcome Them

One of the biggest challenges of adopting a senior dog is having them for a shorter time than you might if you get a puppy. That can be difficult to swallow, but remind yourself that you’ll be the animal’s whole world. Without you, life would basically be over for it already. So, instead, why not make them feel loved and happy every day they have left? 

Senior dogs are also more likely to have health problems than younger dogs. This may mean taking them to the vet more often and paying for more expensive medical care. To overcome this challenge, ask the shelter or rescue organization about the dog’s health history and get it checked out by your vet as soon as possible. You can also look into pet insurance. Or, if the dog’s medical issues are cost-prohibitive, some shelters may help with the cost.

Adopting a senior dog can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to be aware of the challenges involved. If you are prepared to meet and overcome them, you can provide a loving home for the rest of their life.

Pro Tip: Whether you’re looking to rehome or adopt a senior dog, home-to-home pet adoption is a good option for senior dogs so they don’t have to spend any time in a shelter.

Can You Teach an Old Dog New Tricks?

Yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks. In fact, studies have shown that older dogs are just as capable of learning new things as puppies. However, it may take them a little longer to learn and they may require more patience and repetition.

A few things to remember when teaching a senior dog new tricks include starting with simple ones. Break down the trick into smaller steps and use positive reinforcement. Also, be sure to keep the training sessions short and fun. With consistency and patience, you can teach your old dog all sorts of new tricks!

Where Is the Best Place to Get an Older Dog? 

The best place to get an older dog is from a rescue organization or shelter. We recommend first checking with your local shelters. There are also several websites that connect you with pet adoption or foster programs. When adopting, making sure the dog is a good fit for your family should be a high priority. 

Home to Home is another excellent website that you may also want to consider. They help keep animals out of shelters through direct home placement. Sometimes people need to rehome an older dog. Rather than having to go through the shelter system, they help get dogs right into a new home. This is a great way to get the dog’s whole back story, from health history to behaviors and training.

Adopt a Senior Dog for a Memorable and Rewarding Experience

We highly recommend adopting a senior dog if you’re looking for a calmer, more sage companion. While it may have some unique challenges, it’s very likely to provide you with a memorable and rewarding experience. Every pet deserves a home, but seniors are often overlooked in shelters, and that’s no place for them to live their remaining days. They’re much better off in a warm, cozy, and loving home with you!

Have you adopted a senior dog? If so, we’d love to hear your story. Please share it in the comments below.