I love puppies, as long as they are someone else’s.
Don’t get me wrong. There is nothing cuter than that little face while he is sleeping, the sweet smell of the top of his head, and the delightful way he bounces instead of runs.
But I will take an older dog every time. And I have. All of my dogs are getting up there.
Despite the “you can’t teach an old dog…” adage, it is never too late to train a dog.
Behavioral issues can and do occur in older dogs who can get increasingly anxious as their senses become less acute. This anxiety may begin to appear in the form of unwanted behaviors, like excessive barking or aggression.
Please don’t give up on your older dog. If you relinquish her to a shelter or rescue group, realize that senior dogs can be a tough sell to potential new owners.
Your old dog deserves to live out her days in your home. Whatever her age, get her the training she needs so you both can enjoy her best years together.
NOTE: Read Anna Quindlen’s book Good Dog. Stay. It’s the book I am giving to my dog-loving friends this year.
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