Families who have made the decision to bring an older dog into their home are the first to tell you how much better their lives are for it, and shelters are filled with senior dogs hoping to enjoy their puppy retirement with a warm bed (or floor!) and good company. The list of benefits is endless, but here are five amazing reasons to look to the older dog generation when adopting.

1. WISDOM COMES WITH THE TERRITORY

With experience comes wisdom, and older dogs are chocked full of it. A senior dog is typically housetrained, socialized and no longer needs to chew up your household items just for the heck of it, helping you to avoid the stress and chaos that comes with raising and training a puppy.

2. A SENIOR DOG KNOWS WHO THEY ARE

They already have an established personality. You won’t have to guess what they need because they will be the first to tell you. You don’t have to worry about any surprises either, since what you see is what you get. We can learn a thing or two from a senior dog who has figured out who they are and what they want!

3. THEY TAKE THE TIME TO SMELL THE ROSES

Senior dogs are generally much calmer than younger dogs, and their sense of appreciation is overwhelming. Now that they’ve left the wasted effort of chasing their tail behind them, they have more time to enjoy their environment, and more importantly, enjoy your company. Don’t be surprised if a senior dog will sit by your side for hours, content with periodic hugs and pets.

4. BECAUSE MOST PEOPLE JUST WON’T

Simply put, the majority of dogs that aren’t adopted and face the risk of being put to sleep are older dogs. Puppies and younger dogs are typically adopted first, leaving behind an amazing group of dogs that face discrimination purely because of their age. If you won’t adopt a senior dog — who will?

5. YOUR HEART WILL THANK YOU

An older dog is so happy and grateful to have a second chance in life, that they will welcome your companionship with open arms — giving back to you more than you could ever imagine.

Whether your dog is young or old, there are no guarantees in life, so if you are going to rescue a dog, then look beyond their age and you will certainly find the one that is right for you. Bringing a senior dog into your life can be the most rewarding experience you’ll ever have, so don’t miss out. You’ll be a better person because of it. For more tips on owning a senior dog, visitwww.DogQuality.com.

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