Adopting an older dog makes for a very happy pet. While their time left in the world won’t be as long as you’d like, you will find that the bond you create with your senior dog is just a strong as ever. Plus, adopting an older dog comes with the privilege of getting its full personality. There are no surprises or growing pains as you can bring your new best friend home. This article is all about the reasons to adopt an older dog.

What Do I Need to Know Before Adopting an Older Dog?

If you’re thinking about adopting an older dog, just know that it’s almost always a good idea to do so. There’s no potty training, they already have developed personality, and there are no surprises. There are, however, things you need to know before adopting an older canine. Usually, they’re in a shelter for many reasons. It can be from an owner’s passing, behavioral problems, or a multitude of other reasons. You won’t always know why they were abandoned. This can be a little challenging to making sure he fees safe and comfortable with you, but with love and patience you will be a great pet parent!

You’ll also need products that are built for your dog that’ll make him comfortable. Some older dogs may have health problems due to their age. However, there are numerous and fun products available to assist you as a senior dog caretaker.

Vitamins

Providing a well-balanced diet for your senior furry friend will be crucial in a healthy lifestyle. Incorporating vitamins to his daily meal can help his coat, skin, and even breath. Check with your vet to see what vitamins are ideal for his specific needs.

Orthopedic Dog Bed

Your older dog will probably be more comfortable on an orthopedic bed. There are a variety to choose from on Amazon and the reviews are a great way to get an idea of which ones are the highest quality.

When you adopt an older dog, your bond may be so strong that your dog won’t leave your side. They also have a lot of personality, so old doesn’t mean dull. You can teach an old dog new tricks. They’re just as smart as they always were, so don’t underestimate them. Most of all, they’ll change your perspective on life forever. Everything will change, but for the better.

What Age is Considered an Older Dog?

When it comes to dogs, there’s a lot to consider. Smaller dogs are considered seniors around age eleven. Medium size dogs hit the senior mark around age ten. Larger dogs hit the status of seniors around eight. This takes into consideration emotional aging, and dogs mature at different rates due to their shorter lifespans. They age faster, which makes for a lot of variability in breeds and size. No matter the breed, a senior dog can bring so much joy to your life. They have a different look when it comes to the world than they did as a puppy. Even if they lag behind you on a walk, it may be a lesson that you could slow down a little as well. Plus, walking beside your dog is a rewarding experience.

Reasons to Adopt Older Dogs

1. They’re pretty much as what you see is what’ll you get. Everything you see, from the color of their fear, the wagging tail, to the personality, are all as things were meant to be. You won’t be surprised by anything new. There’s no chance of getting a small puppy and see it grow into an extra-large dog. You’ll have the whole complete package. 
2. Most older dogs will be independent. While they’ll love you until the end, they have become masters of alone time. It also means they’ll play safely without tearing anything up like a puppy. They’ll either chew on a toy or take a nap.
3. Even though a dog gets older, it doesn’t mean they want to stop adventuring. No matter who your dog is, they can adjust to your home. They’ll hike if you do and love being active. They can jump and play like puppies providing there are no underlying health problems. 
4. The love never ends. They may carry a few scars, but they won’t let the past keep them down. Older dogs are forgiving and want to live in the present. If you give the love, they’ll give it right back without hesitation.
5. They are usually potty trained. This means your carpets are safer. This will save you countless training hours and floor scrubbing from accidents.
6. The lessons of life have already been learned. They know a toy from your Gucci shoes and furniture. They know that they can’t chew on everything. 
7. They will sleep when you sleep. Puppies will need sleep to help them stay healthy because of development, which makes naps erratic at best. With a senior dog, they adjust easily to your schedule. SO if you’re down for a nap, chances are good your old doggo will gladly join you.
8. Old dogs make excellent therapy dogs for older humans. Since the puppy energy they once had is over, they become ideal for visiting senior homes or participating in children’s programs. 
9. The gratitude never ends. An older dog carries wisdom. They know you rescued them. They are thankful for being saved and don’t care where you live or what your job is. They will dedicate their lives to showing this gratitude.
10. The most essential of all the reasons is that you’re saving a life. Seniors dogs spend the most time in shelters. In an overcrowded shelter, this may not give them an extended chance of surviving. Opening your heart and home to a senior dog is saving them from certain death. Giving them the warmth and love they need in their twilight years will bring joy to their hearts and yours.

To adopt an older dog is a life-changing experience. While you may not have them for their whole lives, you will, however, have them for the rest of their lives. No senior dog deserves to live out the rest of its years in a shelter, and when you adopt older dogs, you and the dog’s life can only get better. In the end, it doesn’t matter the years, but the joy you both share at a life well-lived will never get old, and memories will live on forever.

Kritter Kommunity Contributor

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