Rescuing Shelter Dogs: Reasons to Consider Adopting an Older Dog

I have been rescuing older dogs for nearly ten years and although I won't deny that puppies are cute, I will always choose to adopt older dogs, instead. By older, I am referring to dogs who are at least four years of age, mainly because dogs in shelters who reach this age or older become more difficult to place into loving homes since most adopters generally gravitate toward the puppies.

Some advantages to consider in adopting an older dog include the following:

First of all, what you see is what you get. That little pup may grow into a 170 pound dog over time. An older dog is finished growing for the most part, so you know what size dog you have.

Often, older dogs are in shelters, not because there is something wrong with them, but more commonly, due to relocations, divorce, or allergy problems in their former homes.

Most of them, if they were kept inside, are also already house-trained, and know basic commands. Puppies will not know any of these things. You, the new owner, will have to teach them.

Many puppies also go through that frustrating "chewing" stage. This can mean that bringing a new puppy into your life may ultimately result in replacing boots, furniture, carpets, mattresses, and your sanity.

Puppies also need a lot of time and attention. A new puppy will need to be left out to relieve himself after waking up, after eating, and after playing. This is basically every time you turn around. Very young puppies may also need out in the middle of the night for the first few days or weeks after they are brought into your home. Accidents are common because their bladders are small, they are eating and drinking a lot because they are growing so quickly, and their brains aren't fully developed enough to always remember. Frequently they are so busy being puppies that they often don't realize until it is too late, that they had to go. (A lot like toddlers!)

Every older dog I have ever taken into my life has slept through the night. All I needed to do was show him/her where to sleep. Older dogs, especially shelter dogs, are often so appreciative of not having to rest on concrete that they lie right down and sleep peacefully.