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Benefits of owning an older dog

Owning or giving a home to an elderly dog need not be negative; there are many benefits to owning an older dog, such as:

• Older dogs usually come with a background history - so you are able to make an informed decision as to what dog will be suitable to your lifestyle.

• Older dogs are usually toilet trained.

• You can usually have an older dog out and about with you from the start.

• An older dog is usually more docile and can be less demanding.

• An older dog is usually more settled – having gone through adolescence and learnt social skills and appropriate behaviour.

• Owning a dog can increase your physical activity.  It can enhance your health and help you develop social skills.  This can be true when owning an older dog.

The majority of older dogs that come to Dogs Trust rehoming centres have done so due to bereavement or a lifestyle change such as moving house, a new job or family break up.  Some dogs may have had a bad start in life whether through mistreatment or incorrect training, however this does not mean that they can not be valued companions, just that they may need a little extra time and patience from their owner to allow them to adjust.

Maybe you wish to rehome a dog that has not had the best start in life and needs your extra care and attention with training to help get it back on track.  Or perhaps there is an older dog in our care that is well behaved, sensible and just in need of a loving new owner.

Associated factsheets:

Benefits of owning an older dog factsheet (opens new browser window)