Older dogs are often overlooked in shelters compared to younger dogs and puppies.
But dogs in their golden years have a lot to offer and can complement your family if they are only given the chance.
There are many benefits to choosing an older puppy, and it is important to consider them during your dog adoption trip.
Key dealers
- Older dogs are often overlooked in shelters, but their calm temperament and low energy levels make them ideal companions.
- Older dogs are usually house -broken and can still learn new behaviors.
- Adopting an older puppy will require preparation, including possibly using mobility aids such as dog stairs or a ramp.
- Many breed -specific rescues will transport puppies across state lines.
What age is a dog considered a senior?
In general, “older” dogs are considered 7 years or older. More specifically, senior status is 7 years for medium and large dogs.
Since small breeds have longer life, they approach senior status about 11 years. However, gigantic breed dogs are considered older when they are about 5 years old because of their shorter life.
Why you should adopt an older dog
Older dogs are often overlooked
Older dogs are often overlooked in shelters because most people who want to assume are looking for an energetic puppy to take home.
About 5.8 million dogs come into American protection each year, with a large part of older dogs. However, only 25% of seniors are adopted compared to 60% for younger dogs and puppies.
People can be more worried about assuming an older dog for many reasons. First, older dogs can come up with health problems that need long -term management, which increases the cost of care.
In the same way, as seniors have less lives left, pet parents may be nervous about having to consider their quality of life and potential difficult decisions to be made shortly after the assumption.
Older dogs can also come up with unknown stories, which can cause concern about how they can fit into the family.
It is important to note that older dogs still have a lot to offer in their recent years, and to provide a safe and loving home may be the ultimate gift from a pet parent.
They can still learn new tricks
Older dogs are often already housewife and well -educated. But you can still teach an old dog new tricks!
Older dogs are generally eager and willing to learn, and if they are not house -broken you can still teach them.
Teaching them new skills, such as putting back a toy in the toy basket or pissing a door when they need to go out, also helps keep their cognitive function sharper and gives a sense of purpose.
Since admission dogs often have unknown or incomplete rear stories, pet parents should expect an adjustment phase and the need to teach rules or behaviors that suit their households.
They offer a more relaxed environment
Older dogs are generally calmer and more relaxed because of their older age. Families used to live a more relaxed lifestyle, but who still want to add a dogmate, can benefit from choosing an older dog.
They still have so much love to give
Age is just a number.
Older dogs are filled with love and deserve to live out their remaining years in a safe, loving home. By choosing to adopt an older dog you can give the second chance to them.
They are fully grown
Many dogs in shelters are not yet grown, and their expected height and weight are generally appreciated. However, older dogs are already fully grown, which means that pet parents know exactly what they can expect.
Their temperament is known
Pet parents know the dog's temperament when adopting a senior. Older dogs have also generally emerged puppy behaviors, such as chewing, so this is less worrying for potential adopters.
Considerations to adopt an older dog
When adopting an older dog, it is important to schedule a veterinary visit as soon as you can. This identifies all underlying health conditions early so that any long -term management can be discussed.
To ensure that your home has all the necessary items for your new older puppy makes the transition from the shelter less stressful.
For example, if your older dog has any mobility problems, it is important to block stairs with a pet sport to keep them safe. Using dog stairs or a ramp can help your new puppy get in and out of a car and up on sofas or beds with ease.
Generally, monthly prevention is started for fleas, ticks and heartworms while a dog is in shelter. But if they are not, you want to start these medications immediately, such as Bravecto and Interceptor Plus, to keep your dog protected.
How to find an older dog near you
To find an older dog near you, look up local rescues in your area. If you want to adopt a specific breed, such as a golden retriever or a pug, search for breed -specific shelters. Many rescues will even transport dogs across state lines.
You can also visit your local protection and talk to the staff about all older dogs that have recently been handed over and are looking for new homes.
Adopt a senior dog -weak hogs frequent questions
Where is the best place to get an older dog?
The best place to get an older dog is on your local protection. Many older puppies go into shelter every day, and they have a much lower degree of adoption than younger dogs.
Is it adopting an older dog worth it?
Yes! Older dogs have so much to offer families and if they get the chance they will warm your heart and give unconditional love.
What is the 3-3-3 rule when adopting a dog?
This rule refers to your dog's adaptation to their new home. It generally takes dogs three days to initially adapt to your home, followed by about three weeks of binding and get used to your lifestyle and daily routine. It then takes about three months for your dog to build trust and really settle in.
