Puppy or Older Dog- Which to Adopt?

Puppies, puppies everywhere and oh so cute, and then you see those longing sad eyes of a senior dog – what’s the best way for you to go when adopting a dog?

First, let’s take a look at our station in life. If you are young and just starting out in the world, are on the go a lot, or are very active and want a jogging partner, you will probably want to adopt a young pup. They will be able to keep up with you, interact with your friends and grow with you and your family.

But remember, puppies although they are very cute, don’t come with set of instructions. They take a lot of work from “potty” training, to going through the teething period, and learning how to walk properly on a leash and becoming a well-behaved adult dog. So before those big, bright puppy eyes and wagging tail tug at your heart strings, be sure that you can commit to raising that little fur ball into a full grown adult which can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months or more. Although it is a lot of work, and there will be bumps along the way, you will have the dog you want and know him or her inside out.

Now let’s take a look at the other end of the scale – the older dog that has been surrendered. Perhaps his owner can no longer care for him due to age, illness or financial issues, or the owner has passed away and didn’t think to make arrangements for his four legged companion.

In any event, the older dog will often languish the longest in a shelter or a rescue facility as younger pups tend to take center stage. In many cases these dogs will end up being euthanized because no one wanted an old soul.

But let’s look on the “upside” of the scale. He or she will be well past the “puppy” stage and more than likely will be house trained and used to spending time alone during the day to sleep and relax. You won’t have to worry about your furniture being ruined or your favorite leather boots being chewed up. Your older dog, although not as energetic as a pup, will still be able to enjoy long walks with you and will always return love twofold and never forget the person who rescued him, giving him another chance at life.

So the choice is yours, but remember to make a wise and informed decision before you adopt and weigh the pros and cons carefully. Enjoy your time with your new friend, be it young or old – they both make great companions and will give you unconditional love.