The Advantages of Adopting an Older Puppy

As breeders, we sometimes have older puppies that didn’t get adopted as soon as their siblings did. While adopting while they’re still very young seems like the ideal, adopting an older puppy still has its advantages. We get families and individuals who are specifically looking for an older puppy for their numerous advantages.

Already Started on Potty Training

“Foxy”

One of the best advantages, is that older puppies often have some level of house manners. Unlike young puppies, who require extensive time and effort to begin the house training process, older puppies have already developed some knowledge of where and when to relieve themselves. Instinctively, most dogs want to stay out of their potty mess, but younger puppies really can’t help when and where they go when they are just starting out. However, most of our older puppies are already going in and out of a doggy door by the time they reach 4 months of age. This can significantly reduce the amount of time and energy required to house train, making the overall transition easier for both the puppy and the adopters.

Knowing Temperaments and Traits

Presley & Dragon’s “Yeti”

Personalities and traits are much more apparent in older puppies. If you’re adopting an older puppy from us, you’ll notice that our older puppies have much more specific personality descriptions than that of their younger counterparts. By the time our puppies reach 16 weeks (4 months of age), we have a much better grasp of their personality and true colors, while younger puppies are still developing their individual characteristics. This means that we can provide our adopters with a better sense of the puppy's energy levels, temperament, and overall compatibility with their lifestyle by the time they choose to adopt. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals or families who have specific requirements or preferences when it comes to a dog's behavior and temperament.

Out of the “Puppy Phase”

Heidi & Diesel’s “Paisley”

Older puppies often require less intensive supervision and attention due to their more settled and calm demeanor compared to their younger counterparts. Younger puppies require constant supervision and care due to their curiosity and tendency to explore everything. They can get themselves into trouble if not observed closely. Older puppies usually have outgrown the teething phase and destructive chewing tendencies, allowing for a more relaxed living environment. This lower level of demand can make it easier for families who have busy schedules or limited time to devote to a young puppy's constant needs.

Old or Young, It’s Up to You!

Junebug & Jett’s “Jay”

Each of our puppy adopters is looking for something different in the puppy that they adopt, whether it be that gorgeous deep red coloration, a specific weight range, or even a specific temperament. Just because a puppy is older, doesn’t mean that it’s lost all of its desirability. We want all of our dogs to go to amazing forever homes, and all puppies eventually leave their “puppy phase.” We love our Older Pups here at Idaho Jewels Poodles, and are committed to finding wonderful homes for each and every one of them! Adopting an older puppy can offer several advantages that make adopting an older puppy a practical and rewarding choice for many individuals and families. At the end of the day, it’s up to the adopter on whatever age range best suits their needs!

Puppies of the Week

It wouldn’t be fitting to not spotlight some of our current older puppies on this week’s blog post! All of our older puppies have reduced pricing points for faster placement to their forever homes, and we all have a great grasp on who they are and what kind of home they are looking for! Please consider filling out our Questionnaire & Application if you’re interested in getting approval to adopt one of them!