Most people looking for a dog think that they automatically want a puppy. In many ways, puppies are irresistible. A puppy is, of course, a wonderful thing. You can experience the joy of the puppy character and watch them grow into adulthood. But a puppy can be a handful. They need to be housebroken and trained, they have a chewing phase that lasts a year, and they have endless energy and lots of needs that must be met.
If you're looking for a canine companion, you may want to consider adopting an adult or senior dog. If you think that all or most dogs are given up because of non-correctable problems, you're mistaken. Older dogs lose their homes for many different reasons. Most of them having nothing to do with problems the dog has, but rather with those of the person surrendering the dog. Many folks think dogs who end up at shelters or in rescue are all genetically and behaviorally inferior. But, it is not uncommon for very expensive, well-bred dogs to outlive their usefulness or novelty with folks who bought them on impulse and no longer want to take responsibility for them. Other reasons older dogs become homeless: death of a guardian, not enough time for the dog, change in work schedule, new baby, moving to a place where dogs are not allowed, kids going off to college, allergies, change in "lifestyle", and on and on.
Although puppies are a barrel of fun and cute as the dickens, remember the wise old saying, "Age before beauty." Just because a dog is no longer young doesn't mean he won't bond with your family. Mature dogs have been "socialized" and learned what it takes to be part of a "pack" and to get along with humans and, in most cases, other dogs and cats, as well. Mature dogs appreciate love and attention and quickly learn what's expected of them to gain and keep that love and attention.
If you've never had a puppy or if you had, you might not realize or remember just how much energy they have! Keeping up with a puppy can be exhausting and you can't turn him off or send him to his room to play if you've had a hard day. Settled down from puppyhood, mature dogs generally have had some training, both in obedience and house manners. Take in consideration that most matures dogs have already learned what "no" means and how to leave the furniture, carpets, shoes, and other "chewables" alone. They know how to let you finish the newspaper, sitting calmly next to you, while your workday stress flows away and your blood pressure lowers. They are also instant companions, ready for hiking, riding in the car, walking on leash, fetching, etc. Adopting a senior dog has advantages such as their physical demands are lower. They are not as demanding as some of their younger counterparts. They may be more content to sleep and curl up at your feet and nap. The nice thing about senior dogs is that they will prefer quiet walks to running or active play.
Mature dogs are a "known commodity." They are easy to assess for behavior and temperament, and you also don't have to guess how big they'll grow and how much grooming will be needed.
It is contrary to the old myth that says "You can't train an old do new tricks." You can have a great time with an older dog and can train them new things. They can learn and love it! Their attention is more focused than a puppy which makes them easier and faster to train. So whether it is house manners or funny tricks, an older dog is a pleasure to work with.
Don't older dogs cost more in vet bills? Veterinary attention and medication are needed at all ages and may or may not be more costly for an older dog. Before you adopt a senior, be sure you get a health report from the shelter/rescue veterinarian. That way, if you discover that the dog has a health problem, you can decide if you are able to make the needed financial commitment.
Written by Shar Patnoe, Pawsitive Dog Training, who has adopted 3 unwanted adult dogs.
JazzLyn - adopted at unknown adult age, German Shepard with bone spurs in elbow. Now on Gluscosmine supplement and living an active, healthy life. JazzLyn is a "Love on a Leash" canine that visits retirement homes and schools.
LoonaToon - adopted around the age of 1, German Wirehaired Pointer. She was picked up by the dog catcher many times because her family could not keep her in the yard. Hello..she is a birdy dog! She now helps me teach dog school 4 times a week. Obedience & tricks! She does live up to her name. Funny behaviors and does play the piano. She entertains at local schools and libraries.
Mr Drewman - adopted at unknown adult age, Wirehaired Pointer. He is a dog that never had much human contact in his prior life. The most mellow, couch potato, dog ever! All he wants to do is be next to you to be massaged and talked to. Of course, he does have his active times. Chasing the squirrels between the maple trees and digging for moles and gophers are his favorite past times.
