Why Foster or Adopt a Senior Dog?

Many of us have known the fun and delight of making a puppy part of our families. But there are as many challenges and frustrations as joys in owning a very young GSP. Maybe more. An older dog, however, has been there and done those things that puppies so relentlessly practice. And, oh, there are so many rewards to owning an older dog.

So, what is an “older dog”? For a German Shorthaired Pointer, it means a dog who is 6-7 years and older. And many 9 or 10-year-olds still have puppy behaviors.

Why would you want to adopt or foster a mature GSP?

• Most of them are housebroken. Yea!
• They are much less destructive. Most older dogs are way past the chewing, digging and leaping-over-the-fence stages.
• Older GSPs are starting to mellow out. They are often better with children and the elderly because they are calmer, less frenetic. This doesn’t mean they don’t have energy; they do, but they seem to reserve most of it for outside romping. This mellowing can also mean they are more focused and trainable.
• They are usually more socialized. Most older dogs have learned how to get along with other dogs; they know how to be part of the pack.
• These dogs usually sleep through the night. Rarely do you have to get up for midnight potty breaks.
• Most are so much less demanding. They are happy to spend time on their own. These GSPs don’t demand as much of your attention so you don’t have to keep such a close eye on them.
• But they adore your company and companionship. Take them hiking, or for a ride in the car, or for Frisbee in the backyard and, especially, let them join you for a kicked-back evening at home. They just want to be with you, whatever you do.
• Mature GSPs will love and appreciate you every day because they will be so grateful to have a forever home with you. Although you won’t have a seasoned GSP for as long as you might have a puppy, you will be blessed to feel love and joy daily, enough to help you through the loss that every owner eventually endures.

Just for fun, enjoy this sweet little video showing the special love between a senior GSP and his little girl.

If you’re interested in getting to know the senior GSPs we have available, go here.