Wondering how to keep a senior dog from losing her spunk? The obvious answer is maintain her health. That includes making sure she gets enough exercise to avoid weight gain and stiffness. But some seniors tend to get lazy and don’t want to go on that walk or retrieve the ball as much as they used to. What then? Here’s something to consider: Get another dog.
The Pros of a Companion
Dogs have a natural instinct to wrestle with each other. In fact, those who are pals might just do it for hours. And it’s a form of play that often turns out to be better exercise than chasing a ball or taking a stroll, especially for a senior dog who grows bored with these activities quickly. She won’t depend on her owners as much for entertainment, either, giving them more time to themselves.
Another perk? A second dog can be a godsend when the senior dog passes. People will still grieve their loss, but they won’t be left poochless. That can make the healing process a little easier. Of course, two dogs are more expensive than one, so it’s important to make sure that the extra food, accessories, and healthcare are affordable before taking the plunge.
Choosing the Right Dog
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a companion for a senior dog:
- Age. If a puppy is the first choice for a playmate, keep in mind that puppies are a lot of work and expense. There will be many trips to the vet in the beginning, along with potty and obedience training. Further, puppies are energetic and playful, which can wear on senior dogs after awhile. On the flip side, puppies bring new life into a home that’s sure to lift everyone’s mood—including the senior dog’s. And when the time comes to put down the senior, there will likely be a long wait before the next time rolls around. Dogs older than one usually have the advantage of being potty trained and sometimes obedience trained. They still have the spunk of a puppy without all the work. Middle-aged dogs can be great companions for seniors, too, because they’re often calmer and easier to take care of than young dogs. There are many wonderful senior dogs available for adoption, so acquiring a second senior is another option, but it takes a special person to commit to the time and care of two aging canines.
- Gender. If the senior is a female, choosing a male for a second dog is recommended. In general, dogs of opposite sexes get along the best. The next most compatible pairing is two males. And the one to avoid is two females. That said, any two dogs can and do get along well, just as any two dogs can fight.
- Breed. People who choose the same breed of dog as their senior generally know what to expect when it comes to grooming, typical behaviors, and other traits characteristic of the breed. Those considering a different breed should do their research before making any decisions since some breeds are more aggressive than others.
Once the age, gender, and breed are determined, it probably won’t be hard to find a second dog. There are many places to look, including private breeders, rescue groups, and The Humane Society. It's not a bad idea to bring a dog home on a trial basis to see if the chemistry between the new dog and the senior is right.
For those who want to keep their senior dogs lively, getting a second dog is definitely worth a second thought. It just might improve the life of the senior—and the owner!
For information on how to select the perfect golden, see Picking Out a Golden Retriever.
Sources:
Davis, Kathy Diamond. “Adding a Second Dog to Your Family.” The Canine Behavior Series. <http:www.veterinarypartner.com>
The Humane Society.
School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis.
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