When Every (Dog) Year Counts: The Pros and Cons of Adopting a Puppy vs. An Older Dog

Published on: 10 December 2021 Last Updated on: 18 January 2022

If you’re looking to add a four-legged, tail-wagging friend to your family, one of the first decisions you’ll make is whether about adopting a puppy or an older dog. Either would give you an adorable, furry friend, but both choices have their unique disadvantages, too.

Whether you’re looking for a puppy or an older dog, you’ll want to check out this year’s most popular dog breeds. These showstopping canines will give you an idea of what other pet parents are looking for in their animals.

Mixed breed dogs are a perennial favorite for their unique makeups and generally stable health, but they may not be the answer if you’ve got your heart set on a specific breed. Following the mixed breed dogs are toy breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Pomeranians.

These loyal, yappy dogs are popular among older adults or couples without children, as they can be particular about their boundaries. Lastly, everyone loves the classic Retriever breeds, such as Goldens and the ever-adorable Lab puppies.

Now that you’ve got the necessary background on this year’s best in show breeds, here are the pros and cons that come with both puppies and older dogs.

Puppies pros

Adopting a pint-sized pooch can be the puzzle piece your growing family needs, but it won’t be without a lot of patience (and chewed furniture).

1. Puppies are cute and affectionate

Young dogs are precious, which is why so many people want to adopt them. Puppies are also affectionate and can become very attached to their owners.

2. Plenty of energy to play

If you want an energetic dog, puppies are the way to go. These little dogs love to run, play, and go for walks. If you’re into jogging, a younger dog’s energy will make your pet a fun partner on your daily 5K.

Puppy cons

Owning a puppy may be fun at playtime, but it can also be a lot of work. Here are the cons to adopting a puppy.

1. Training is needed

Puppies require training in every way imaginable: housebreaking, noise, nipping, jumping, and more. Just like human children, puppies aren’t always eager to do what they’re told, so you’ll need a pound of patience.

2. Puppies’ adult years are a mystery

How a puppy will grow up is a bit of a question mark. Will your dog have behavior issues or medical problems? Only time will tell, and the uncertainty might be more than you’re willing to handle.

Adult dog pros

Grown dogs can offer just as much love and companionship as a puppy, so some prefer to give an adult dog home when adopting a pet. Here are the pros of adopting a seasoned dog.

1. You know what you’re getting

When you adopt an adult dog, you already know its temperament and health needs. There are fewer questions with older dogs, as their personalities have already developed.

2. The dog may already have training

Some adult dogs who need a home have already been housebroken and may have other training, such as service dog training. Older dogs can be an excellent choice for first-time dog owners because of this experience.

Cons of adopting an older dog

Giving an older dog a home carries with it a few considerations. Among them are these possible cons.

1. Senior dogs may not be as energetic

Adopting a senior dog who needs a home is admirable, but don’t expect older dogs to have the same energy level as a puppy or younger dog. For some aspiring dog owners, this chilled-out nature may be a plus. It may mean leaving Fido at home more often than not for active families.

2. Possibility of medical costs

Aging dogs can have medical problems, so you’ll need to consider the cost of veterinary care. Though puppies can also go through their share of medical mayhem, dogs nearing the end of their lifespan will undoubtedly incur a few vet bills before they leave your life.

Giving a dog a home

Deciding to give a dog home can be one of the best choices you ever make, but you’ll need to determine whether an older dog or a puppy is best suited for your home. Whether you adopt a puppy or senior dog, you’ll find either to be loving companions for the whole family.

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What To Look For And What To Avoid In Healthy Dog Treats

Pets deserve treats, and you want to give them the best. However, you may not know that the goodies you get in the stores don't have your pet's best interest at heart. You need to find something healthier and better for your dog to eat the best in sweet treats but not suffer from adverse effects. Check out our list below for the top healthy dog treats and what you should look for. The Ingredients Are Key You must look for healthy ingredients and know what to avoid when looking for treats. For instance, some pets are allergic to corn, wheat, soy, and chocolate. You should also avoid things like syrups, salts, and molasses. Pets should also avoid lower-quality products like fake meats made of by-products or regular meat. With that in mind, you need to think about healthy ingredients instead. Look for these ingredients in your pet's treats, and you can't go wrong. Fruits Vegetables Whole meats Grains Note: Remember, when looking for dog treats, use fresh ingredients, and you can't go wrong. Looking For The Top Healthy Dog Treats When considering the top healthy dog treats, choose something that will pamper your puppy and ensure you're not wrecking its diet. For instance, a chicken and sweet potato blend would be a great flavor combination. Using natural chicken breast in every treat and real potatoes means you don't have to use fake preservatives and other harmful ingredients to get an artificial flavor. Instead, you get one hundred percent flavor from simple ingredients. Another benefit to finding suitable treats? You have something that is both high in protein and low in fat. Have The Treats Been Approved? Another way that you can tell that the treats are what your dog should be eating is if they're veterinarian approved. A veterinarian is skilled in taking care of your pet, and they know exactly what your pet should be eating. As a result, you'll find that their expertise is what you should consider when you want to give your pet the top healthy dog treats and the care they deserve. Another reason you should look for vet-approved treats is that you know that they meet all the requirements and that you'll give your dog something that won't make them sick. Instead, you get something that keeps them healthy and strong while providing them the energy they need. Giving Your Dog The Top Healthy Dog Treats When you want to ensure that your dog is safe and has the best options for treats, you need to give them the best, and the top healthy dog treats will do this for you. You have a great chance at your fingertips to give your dog the best with no artificial ingredients and only healthy and fresh options. Note: Remember, the last thing you need is for your loved one to get sick. Instead of using fake meat products, use fresh and delicious chicken. Your pet will thank you. Additionals: 5 Reasons Why Your Child Needs a Dog The Best Dog Breeds For Fitness Fanatics Food Allergies in Dogs and How You Can Prevent it? Can Dogs Make the Anti-Social Kids Socialize Better?

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Different steps on how to clean pet stains on couch

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When Every (Dog) Year Counts: The Pros and Cons of Adopting a Puppy vs. An Older Dog