Second chance dogs: how you can help

When adopting a puppy, you cannot be sure of what their personality is going to be like. “It’s roughly around two years before a dog really sort of comes into their own as an adult, and you really get a full picture of what they’re going to be like personality-wise.” 

When you meet an older dog at a shelter who has been around the block a few times, and has most likely lived with people before, you can get more of a sense of their personality by interacting with them and talking with the shelter’s staff. Do keep in mind that some dogs are understandably nervous meeting new people in a shelter setting and don’t always bloom until they are in a safe, comfortable home where they can fully relax.

It’s also worth noting that depending on a puppy’s breed, you may not be able to predict their size either. With a senior, you needn’t fear that your scruffy little mix is going to grow to Wolfhound proportions. 

When they aren’t sleeping, puppies are pretty much always in play/chew/“let’s get crazy” mode. Younger dogs have a lot of energy, too—they’re eager to exercise and explore. Older dogs tend to be more mellow companions content to cozy up next to you on the couch for hours during a Netflix binge, or lay snoozing at your feet while you work at your desk. Senior dogs provide all the companionship of a younger dog, but they’re likely also used to alone time, and don’t have to be watched constantly lest they overturn a garbage can or shred your new sneakers (like a puppy will most certainly do).  Many older dogs will have grown out of destructive habits, and will be schooled in good manners and basic skills like “sit,” and “stay.” Adopting a dog who knows the basics will save you some time, and allow you to focus on building a great relationship. 

The Farmer's Dog, et al. “What You Should Know about Adopting an Older Dog.” The Farmer's Dog, 26 Dec. 2021, https://www.thefarmersdog.com/digest/short-list-reasons-adopt-senior-dog/?utm_campaign=nb_performance_max&gclid=Cj0KCQiAxc6PBhCEARIsAH8Hff1C8EByT-6u_aP_HfjM76FkMKLtuOWMRzBbCoe753xP4HI50_--xc8aAh1yEALw_wcB.