Most dogs in the shelters are young adolescents. Many times they do not have behavioral problems; they were just victims of well-meaning owners who did not have the time, knowledge, or patience for the needs of a dog. While many rescue dogs could use a little more training they usually bond quickly with new owners and have fewer needs than a young puppy.

● Many shelter dogs are already house trained. Though they often need some reminders and a few days of adjustment time after their stay at the shelter or even with a foster family. Even if they were sadly kept outdoors only, adult dogs often only need a day or two to learn that they live inside, but eliminate outside.

● Many shelter dogs have already lived with children. People often assume that they should start with a puppy if they have children. Puppies have sharp baby teeth and can play too roughly with young children. There are many adult dogs in rescues that are recommended for households with children. And, teaching children about the moral benefits of saving the life of a homeless adult pet is a lesson that will never be forgotten.

● Adult dogs are easier to train than young puppies because they have longer attention spans. And many rescue dogs already know some basic commands taught in their first home or by their foster families.

● Adult dogs are generally more predictable. A dog isn’t full-grown until it’s a year old, so when adopting an adult dog you already know its full size, health and real personality.

● Dogs mature out of their “teenage phase” until they are often two years old. Adopting an older pet means that someone else already had his or her shoes chewed and you get the benefit of a dog that is mellower and allows you to finish the entire newspaper.

● Don’t discount a dog that is approaching a senior age. Even an eight-year-old dog has the likelihood of many more good years to give you. A senior dog often offers the sweetest rewards.

● You are taking a stand against the pet overpopulation crisis and saving an animal that will bond quickly with you, and shower you with gratitude and unconditional love.

All dogs are pack animals and have high needs for regular companionship and attention inside the home with their humans. If you are gone much longer than eight or nine hours a day, a dog may not be an appropriate pet for your busy lifestyle.

Check out our adult dogs who would be perfect matches for your current and future families!