If you’ve been thinking about getting a dog but you’re not sure whether it will fit your stage of life and energy levels, why not consider adopting a senior pooch? Dogs are usually considered to have entered the ‘senior’ stage at around seven years of age. These older dogs often make for wonderful companions and there are plenty of reasons to welcome one into your home.

1. They’re past the busy puppy stage

Puppies are adorable but they’re also a lot of hard work and require plenty of time and training. Senior dogs have already been through puppyhood and adolescence, are generally much calmer than puppies, and usually just need your love, care and attention.

2. They’re already house trained

Another big plus is that they’re probably already house-trained and are less likely to leave an unpleasant surprise on your floor or bed.

3. They typically sleep a lot

As anyone who’s ever owned a dog can tell you, Fido loves his naps. According to The National Sleep Foundation, “The average dog sleeps for about 12 to 14 hours per 24-hour cycle”, with older dogs needing a bit more rest. So if you’re not as active as you used to be, an older dog could be the perfect companion, content to spend a few hours snuggling with you on the couch while you read or catch up on your favourite series. But that doesn’t mean that senior dogs don’t need regular physical activity…

4. They love to exercise, too

While they may be not quite as boisterous as their younger counterparts, older dogs also need regular exercise to keep them stimulated and healthy. Fortunately, while going for a daily walk is good for your pooch, it’s good for you too – and having a dog is great motivation to lace up your sneakers and head outdoors. Remember that when you adopt a dog, no matter what their age, regular exercise is part of the package.

5. You’ll be giving them the best ‘retirement’ gift

Older dogs tend to be overlooked in shelters and can end up spending quite a bit of time waiting for their forever home. Adopting a senior means that you’ll be giving it a happy and comfortable home for the rest of its life – and it’s sure to give you years of love, loyalty and companionship in return.