Why an Adult?

Why an Adult Dog Instead of a Puppy?

Copyright 1995 Terri Haase
Save the Dalmatians of Southern California
Dalmatian Assistance League/Dalsavers

Our eyes met through the chain link at the county "pound". The pleading and promises in his eyes could not be ignored. I adopted him, a two-year old adult male dog. His past is a mystery. The animal control staff found him wandering the streets and brought him in. His lovely personality bought him a two-month stay instead of the usual two weeks, and then I took him home.
He was already housebroken, in contrast to the puppy I had purchased through a breeder over 10 years ago. He was partially trained and displayed a calm temperament. The puppy, by comparison, had to be taught everything and had boundless energy that expressed itself in various types of mischief. My new adult dog had already passed through the chewing phase and was not interested in eating the corners off the cabinets as the puppy had done. He also did not require a series of vaccinations or worming as the puppy had.

The first week at our home, our new dog was unsure of himself. He did not understand at first that we were his owners and this really was his home. He was a little reserved with us but after a couple of weeks passed and he was still living with us and being pampered and spoiled, he suddenly realized that he was here to stay. He was nervous about us leaving him when we went to work and he wanted to be close by all the time when we were home, but he eventually became more confident and no longer has separation anxiety.

He has blossomed into a very affectionate, playful and happy dog. He has bonded with us as if we had owned him from the beginning. There is no truth to the saying that "you can't teach an old dog new tricks". Our dog came through the obedience class training with an excellent score on his final exam.

Puppies are cute but if you want a dog who is already housebroken, trained or partially trained, and facing death if a home cannot be found, I encourage you to contact your local breed rescue organization or visit your local animal control shelter. You'll be glad you did and your new adult dog will repay your kindness a thousand fold! Save a life!

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