Senior dogs are special. If only all people understood the undeniable charms of these older and wiser dogs, there wouldn’t be so many up for adoption. To do our part to help, we’re sharing the top 9 reasons you should love (and take home!) a senior dog RIGHT NOW. We promise you won’t regret it.
1. You’ll have so much fun showing them off.
From Susie’s Senior Dogs Facebook page, to the incredible compassion of Steve Grieg who only adopts older animals, it’s obvious that senior dogs are endlessly entertaining on social media.
2. Lovely, lower-energy, and perfect for cuddling.
You’ll never find a better partner to flop around on the couch with—just add in a Netflix or HBO Max marathon, some decadent treats (for both of you of course), and BINGO. You have the ideal day or evening planned.
3. Instant companion.
Somehow, older dogs innately understand how lucky they are that you adopted them, and will spend the rest of their lives showing their appreciation. Basically you’ve just met your new, built-in best friend, congratulations.
4. Skip the mischievous puppy antics.
Most senior dogs are already trained and housebroken, meaning they’ve already gone through the destructive, nipping, peeing-everywhere stage. They’ve also already been socialized, so they’ll know how to blend right in with your family.
5. They’re interesting!
Just like a fine wine, dogs only improve with age. And the experiences they’ve had make them unique and fascinating—just check out these incredible senior pups we highlighted in a previous post.
6. You can teach an old dog new tricks.
That old saying just isn’t true—older pups still have plenty to learn. There are many new things you can show your senior dog. In fact, they’re often easier to train than puppies because they’re able to focus for longer periods of time.
7. There won’t be as many surprises, and that’s a good thing.
Remember that tiny puppy your friend got for their tiny apartment, only to have it grow into a beast of a dog that barely fit? Well, when you adopt an older dog, you already know what they’re going to look like full grown, so you’re prepped and ready with ample space and supplies.
8. You’ll join a special community of people, not just pups.
There are others out there who also value the immense love and joy that a senior dog can bring to a person or family. Facebook and Instagram are packed with places and groups that celebrate and encourage adopting older dogs.
9. Most importantly, you’re saving a life.
There are so many senior dogs that are put down every year because others can’t see past their graying fur and slower pace. Shouldn’t those dogs spend their golden years curled up on the couch, or on your living room rug? We think so.
We know that adopting an older animal is a big decision, so you can always foster a senior dog to test the waters. Many cities have special senior dog nonprofits that can show you how to get involved. Here in Seattle we have Old Dog Haven, an incredible organization that even helps cover vet bills to encourage the adoption of their older residents. Open your heart to taking in a distinguished dog of a certain age, and we guarantee you’ll get just as much out of it as they do.