Everyone loves puppies. They are cute, they are full of energy and they can’t wait to explore the world around them. Although raising a puppy to a healthy and strong adult is rewarding, it requires a many of work.
When it comes to adopting a senior dog, you have the privilege of choosing a fully developed personality that best fits your lifestyle. No growing pains and no surprises; just bring home your new best friend.
Still on the fence? Here are 10 more amazing reasons to take a senior dog adventure today.
10. What you see is what you get.
Whether they have crazy fuzzy hair, stumpy legs or wild wagging tails, senior pooches become exactly who they are. You don’t have to worry about adopting a “Terrier Mix” puppy just to watch it grow to the size of a Great Dane!
9. They are independent.
Older dogs love being around their owners, but they’ve also mastered the art of humoring themselves. Unlike puppies, you can trust older dogs to play safely on their own when you’re busy. While the puppies are in the trash or shredding your newspapers, the older dogs are happily munching on a bone or looking for a nice cozy place to take a nap.
8. They’ve been around, but they’re still ready for another adventure.
You are certain can teach an old dog new tricks! Regardless of how your senior dog lived before he met you, he can easily adjust to your way of doing things. Want to hike and stay active? So are senior puppies! Barring any health issues, older dogs can run, jump and play just like any puppy. Plus, they’re less likely to tire at the same rate you do.
7. They still have a lot of love left to give.
Older dogs may have some scars – physical and emotional – but they don’t let their pasts get in the way, no matter how dark they are. Dogs have a way of forgiving, forgetting and living in the present. If you give your love to an old dog, you can be sure that he will spend the rest of his life loving you back.
6. They are easy on your carpets.
Senior pups tend to have a built in knowledge that potty time is a outdoor activity, saving you endless hours of practice and tons of frustration.
5. They’ve learned their puppy lessons.
Older dogs are also likely to learn the difference between dog toys and expensive designer sunglasses, furniture and shoes.
4. When you sleep, they sleep.
Like human babies, puppies need a lot of sleep for healthy development, and their sleep patterns can be quite erratic. 3 AM potty runs have become a way of life with a puppy in the house. Older dogs tend to adjust to your schedule, relaxing when you relax.
3. They make great therapy dogs and companions for seniors.
Since they’ve gotten that wild-youth-phase out of their systems, older dogs are great at performing service tasks like visiting nursing homes and hospitals or participating in reading programs for children. at school. They are also the perfect BFF for senior citizens to adopt!
2. They never stop expressing their gratitude.
When you look into the wise and worldly eyes of a rescued old dog, you see an animal that know they are saved. They don’t care where you live, what you look like or what you do for a living; they will devote the rest of their lives to thanking you.
And, the best reason to adopt a senior dog,
1. You are literally saving lives.
According to Dogtime, older dogs spend nearly four times longer on pet adoption websites before finding homes. In overcrowded public shelters they may not have that kind of time. When you open your home and your heart to an older pet, you save them from almost certain death and show them that they deserve love and comfort during their twilight years. .
Note: All photos in this post are courtesy of the rescue group, Susie’s Senior Dogs and feature real seniors who have been successfully adopted into forever homes!
Featured Image via Instagram/@SusiesSeniorDogs
