Senior dogs are often overlooked in shelters, compared to younger dogs and puppies.
However, dogs in their golden years have much to offer and can complement your family if simply given the chance.
There are many benefits to choosing a senior pup, and it’s important to consider them during your dog adoption journey.
Key Takeaways
- Senior dogs are often overlooked in shelters, but their calm temperaments and low energy levels make them ideal companions.
- Older dogs are typically housebroken and are still capable of learning new behaviors.
- Adopting a senior pup will require preparation, including possibly using mobility aids like dog stairs or a ramp.
- Many breed-specific senior rescues will transport pups across state lines.
What Age Is a Dog a Considered a Senior?
In general, “senior” dogs are considered 7 years of age or older. More specifically, senior status is 7 years of age for medium– and large-sized dogs.
Because small breeds have longer lifespans, they approach senior status around 11 years of age. However, giant breed dogs are considered seniors when they are around 5 years old, due to their shorter lifespans.
Why You Should Adopt a Senior Dog
Senior Dogs are Often Overlooked
Senior dogs are often overlooked in shelters because most people looking to adopt are searching for an energetic puppy to take home.
Approximately 5.8 million dogs enter U.S. shelters each year, with a large portion being senior dogs. However, only 25% of seniors get adopted compared to 60% for younger dogs and puppies.
People can be more apprehensive about adopting a senior dog for many reasons. For one, senior dogs may come with health issues that need long-term management, which increases the cost for care.
Similarly, because seniors have less life left, pet parents may be nervous about having to consider their quality of life and potential difficult decisions to be made soon after the adoption.
Older dogs can also come with unknown histories, which can cause concern for how they may fit into the family.
It’s important to note that senior dogs still have much to offer in their later years, and providing a safe and loving home could be the ultimate gift from a pet parent.
They Can Still Learn New Tricks
Senior dogs are often already housebroken and well-trained. However, you can still teach an old dog new tricks!
Senior dogs are generally eager and willing to learn, and if they aren’t housebroken, you can still teach them.
Teaching them new skills, such as putting a toy back in the toy bin or pawing a door when they need to go outside, also helps keep their cognitive function sharper and provides a sense of purpose.
Because adoptable dogs often have unknown or incomplete backstories, pet parents should expect an adjustment phase and the need to teach rules or behaviors to fit their household.
They Offer a More Relaxed Environment
Senior dogs are generally calmer and more relaxed due to their older age. Families used to living a more relaxed lifestyle, but who still want to add a canine companion, can benefit from choosing a senior dog.
They Still Have So Much Love to Give
Age is just a number.
Senior dogs are filled with love and deserve to live out their remaining years in a safe, loving home. By choosing to adopt a senior dog, you can provide that second chance to them.
They Are Full-Grown
Many dogs in shelters are not yet grown, and their anticipated height and weight is generally estimated. However, senior dogs are already full-grown, which means pet parents know exactly what to expect.
Their Temperaments Are Known
Pet parents know the dog’s temperament when adopting a senior. Senior dogs also have generally outgrown puppy behaviors, like chewing, so this is less of a concern for potential adopters.
Considerations for Adopting a Senior Dog
When adopting a senior dog, it’s important to schedule a veterinarian visit as soon as you can. This identifies any underlying health conditions early so that any long-term management can be discussed.
Ensuring your home has all the necessary items for your new senior pup makes the transition from the shelter less stressful.
For example, if your senior dog has any mobility issues, it’s important to block off stairs with a pet gate to keep them safe. Using dog stairs or a ramp can help your new pup get in and out of a car and up on couches or beds with ease.
Generally, monthly preventatives for fleas, ticks, and heartworms are started while a dog is at the shelter. However, if they are not, you’ll want to immediately start those medications, such as Bravecto and Interceptor Plus, to keep your dog protected.
How To Find a Senior Dog Near You
To find a senior dog near you, look up local rescues in your area. If you’re looking 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 shelter and speak with the staff about any senior dogs who have been recently surrendered and are looking for new homes.
Adopting a Senior Dog FAQs
Where is the best place to get a senior dog?
The best place to get a senior dog is at your local shelter. Many senior pups enter shelters each day, and they have a much lower adoption rate than younger dogs.
Is adopting a senior dog worth it?
Yes! Senior dogs have so much to offer families and if given the chance, they will warm your heart and provide unconditional love.
What is the 3-3-3 rule when adopting a dog?
This rule refers to your dog’s adjustment to their new home. It generally takes dogs three days to initially adjust to your home, followed by around three weeks of bonding and getting used to your lifestyle and daily routine. It then takes about three months for your dog to build trust and really settle in.
