Benefits of Getting an Older Puppy

When considering an eight-week-old puppy vs. a four to six-month-old puppy, the right choice depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and ability to care for a younger dog. This page explores the benefits of getting an older puppy.

Some families want the experience of getting a puppy that includes puppy breath, interrupted sleep, and the need to constantly watch them for chewing, frequent breaks for taking the puppy outside to potty and getting into things.

They want the initial bonding and participation in the early socialization process and have the time and ability to commit to the demands and time-intensive commitment and constant supervision of an eight-week-old puppy.

We have families who want a puppy; however, they cannot commit to the demands of a younger one and the time required and do not wish to adopt a dog, as they want to be involved in raising a puppy. Getting an older puppy can ease the time commitment and allow them to participate in the growth and development of a puppy.

Older puppies typically have better bladder control than very young ones, making potty training easier and not having the frequent breaks required. They have a more robust immune system and have received some vaccinations, if not all, reducing the risk of certain diseases.

All of our puppies are raised using our Foundational Start Program. If not adopted at eight weeks, we start the training process. This can save time and effort in teaching them commands and house rules.

As puppies mature, they are more receptive to training and can quickly learn basic commands and house rules. They usually have a good attention span and are eager to please, making training sessions more effective.

Our puppies are socialized with people of all ages, have car rides and playtime, and are potty trained using a doggy door. We raise them as part of our family, giving them living room/kitchen time, allowing them time to explore, get into things, and opportunity to learn commands such as leave it off, etc., some basic household manners,

Because the puppies are older, we better understand their personality traits, energy level, and temperament, allowing a better match for your lifestyle. We know how well they focus, or if they are easily distractible.

While puppies may still be teething at this age, they have typically passed through the worst. This means they may be less likely to chew on everything in sight than younger puppies.

We’ve had families express concern about bonding with an older puppy. Whether getting an eight-week-old puppy or a five-year-old dog, bonding is about building a relationship with your companion, which can occur at any age and requires time, building trust, and commitment to both.

Ultimately, both age groups can be wonderful companions, and the choice depends on your lifestyle, living situation, and the amount of time you can dedicate to a young puppy. Regardless of age, providing a loving home, proper training, socialization, and veterinary care will ensure a happy and well-adjusted dog.