I’ve been thinking about getting a dog, but IDK if I should go for a puppy or an older dog. Puppies seem like a lot of work, but I kinda love the idea of raising one from the start. On the other hand, older dogs are already trained and might be easier to take care of. Anyone here gone through this decision? What did you pick and why?
I went with a puppy last year… ngl, it was a lot! Training, vet visits, all the energy—it was like having a toddler lol. But the bond is amazing. If you have the time and patience, go for it!
Heath said:
I went with a puppy last year… ngl, it was a lot! Training, vet visits, all the energy—it was like having a toddler lol. But the bond is amazing. If you have the time and patience, go for it!
Yeah, I keep hearing that puppies are a full-time job. Did you hire a trainer or just train them yourself?
@Jules
Did it myself! Lots of YouTube videos and trial and error lol. If you have the time, it’s doable.
Older dogs are honestly underrated. I got a senior dog, and he was already trained, super chill, and just happy to have a home. Less stress than a puppy for sure.
Zen said:
Older dogs are honestly underrated. I got a senior dog, and he was already trained, super chill, and just happy to have a home. Less stress than a puppy for sure.
That’s what I was thinking… was there anything hard about adopting an older dog?
@Jules
The only thing was vet costs—sometimes they need extra care, like dental work or meds for joint issues. But honestly, it’s worth it.
It depends on your lifestyle. Puppies need more time for training and socialization. If you’re super busy, maybe an older dog is better?
Remy said:
It depends on your lifestyle. Puppies need more time for training and socialization. If you’re super busy, maybe an older dog is better?
That makes sense. Do older dogs still play a lot, or are they mostly just chill?
@Jules
Some do! You can pick a dog that matches your energy level. Some older dogs still love running around, while others just wanna nap all day lol.
One thing to think about—puppies can be unpredictable. Even if you pick a certain breed, you won’t know their full personality till they grow up. With an older dog, you know exactly what you’re getting.
@Sam
Oh yeah, that’s a good point. Do puppies not always turn out how you expect?
Jules said:
@Sam
Oh yeah, that’s a good point. Do puppies not always turn out how you expect?
Yeah, especially for stuff like temperament and energy level. Even coat type can change—so if you want a very specific kind of dog, an older one might be better.
If you’re worried about vet costs, just know puppies can be expensive in their first year—shots, spaying/neutering, all that. But older dogs might have long-term meds. Either way, budget for it!
Oli said:
If you’re worried about vet costs, just know puppies can be expensive in their first year—shots, spaying/neutering, all that. But older dogs might have long-term meds. Either way, budget for it!
True… I didn’t realize puppies could cost $1000+ their first year. Guess dogs aren’t cheap no matter what lol.
@Jules
Yep! But totally worth it if you’re ready for it.