As a dog behavior consultant, I walk into many homes with senior dogs where the family has just welcomed a brand new puppy into the household.
On most occasions, the family is surprised that their senior dog is not reacting as beautifully as they had anticipated regarding their new adorable, and youthful housemate.
I think there are a lot of misconceptions about this idea of getting a new puppy for our senior dogs that I want to unpack and get out there for discussion.
There's this wonderful and magical myth that getting a young puppy will bring our senior dog to life.... that it will make he/she playful and energetic again like they were when they were young.
And while there may be some truth to that, I caution that we are being a bit too naive when we think this way.
Here's why:
Senior Dogs Have Changing Needs And Preferences
It is normal for senior dogs to enjoy different types of social interaction with other dogs than when they were younger.
Between their gradually decreased energy level, their need for increased rest, and the likelihood of new aches and pains, many senior dogs may need more low-key play sessions with other dog friends if they are still interested in playing. They also may want to play for shorter periods than they used to. They may enjoy a lower-energy style of play that suits their physical abilities better.
This is all normal.
In my professional opinion, it is all too common for us toe force senior dogs to tolerate this type of unwanted interaction from younger dogs.
We get mad at our seniors for being "grumpy" or "a jerk," when in reality, they just have different needs and preferences than they used to.
They deserve to be accommodated and protected to meet these needs, not forced to tolerate more than they can handle.
Not only is that the kind and humane thing to do, but it is also better for our senior dogs' mental and physical health. Senior dogs are more prone to increased stress and anxiety from being put in challenging situations, which can negatively impact their quality of life and health.
So we need to remember that even if a senior dog enjoys the energy and company of a puppy, they may need protection and intervention implemented by us to ensure that they are not being overwhelmed or forced to do too much "puppy parenting."
Puppies Require A Lot of Management And Do Not Come With Great Social Skills
Puppies are a lot of work. That is reality. Puppies do not come pre-programmed with good social skills around other dogs. They LEARN social skills by interacting with other dogs. Ideally, they should learn social skills from other puppies as well as from well-socialized adult dogs. who LIKE puppies.
Some senior dogs may be wonderful at helping to teach puppies the ropes of having good doggie social skills. But as discussed above, many senior dogs are put into this role without their own needs being considered. It is not the job of the older dog in the home to have to correct the puppy all day long. This is not a good situation for either of them.
So if you decide to add a puppy to your household with a senior dog, be prepared to provide the puppy much-needed socialization opportunities with other puppies in addition to with your senior dog. Also be prepared to implement management as needed, such as separating the dogs in different situations where your senior dog may need a break.
After considering these two points, here is a list of questions to ask yourself about whether or not it is a good idea to add a puppy to your home with a senior dog:
Questions To Ask Yourself:
Does my senior dog enjoy the company of other dogs?
When was the last time they played with another dog? Was the playmate an energetic puppy or a calmer older dog? When was the last time they had a doggy houseguest in our home? How did they react?
Am I able to implement separation between the puppy and the senior dog in my home as much as needed?
Reminder: They may need complete separation at first and gradual introductions depending on the reaction of both dogs. Is this possible for me and my family to do?
Do I have the time and energy to provide my puppy with the individualized socialization and training that they will need, while also making sure that my senior dog receives opportunities for exercise and appropriate social interaction?
Even if my senior dog enjoys the company of the puppy, it is still essential to give them individualized attention and age-appropriate activities to do.
Considering the answers to these questions may help you determine whether adding a puppy is the right option for your household at this time.
The last point that I would like to make is a verbal reframe.
Instead of thinking of it as getting a puppy for my senior dog, I challenge you to think of it as adding a puppy to my household with a senior dog in it already.
I think this change in verbiage can help us see the reality that even if our senior dog does enjoy the company of a new puppy, the vast majority of households in this situation will still need to make adjustments and changes in order to meet everyone's needs and help everyone thrive.
Are you considering adding a new puppy to your home with a senior dog? Are you in this situation and facing challenges? See my resources below for help!
Work 1:1 With Kristen (remote or in-home) to help your multi-dog household thrive! Link here
Senior Dog Behavior Information & Resources here.
FREE Senior Dog Enrichment Guide here.
Take my FREE Quiz to discover your dog's retirement personality and learn things you should do to help them thrive here.
Comments