Posted on May 23, 2024 by Judy Miller

Retired adult dogs for adoption can make wonderful pets! While older dogs may require time to adjust to new surroundings and family members, they can become loving and loyal companions.

What is Considered an Older Dog?

An older dog is generally considered to be around 7 years of age or older. However, the definition of an older dog can vary based on the breed and size of the dog. Larger breeds tend to have shorter lifespans and may be considered older at an earlier age, while smaller breeds may be considered older at a later age. It’s important to consider the individual dog’s health, activity level, and overall condition when determining if they are considered older.

How Long Before a Dog is Retired from Breeding

The retirement age for breeding dogs varies depending on the breed and individual health considerations. In general, smaller breeds may be retired from breeding at around 5-7 years old, while larger breeds may be retired at 6-8 years old. It’s important for breeders to prioritize the well-being of their dogs and make decisions based on their individual health and reproductive capabilities. Regular consultation with a veterinarian is essential in determining the retirement age for breeding dogs.

At Monark Puppies, we retire our adult dogs while they are young and can have a good long life with their new forever families. Our Newfoundland moms are retired at four to five years of age, the Shiba Inu and Beagles usually at a later stage of life six to seven years.

Adopting an Older Dog

At Monark Puppies, both our retired male and female adults are well socialized and on a regular Vet Health Program. They are a very good addition to a family that would like to have a more mature dog with some of the puppy energy. (Check out our Brag book of families and their new family members who choose to partner with Monark Puppies!)

If you are interested in adopting an older dog, you will need to visit the farm and the dogs you are interested in to make sure it is a good match for both. As we do not ship our older dogs for adoption, they have to be picked up here at the farm.

Do Retired Adult Dogs Make Good Pets?

One main concern for people adopting an older dog is how well they will adjust to a new life and environment. Older dogs adjust very well, as they are used to interaction with people. This is one reason for visiting the farm and the retired dogs – to get acquainted and make sure it is going to be a good fit for everyone.

Overall, retired adult dogs for adoption can make wonderful pets! While they may require some time to adjust to new surroundings and family members, they can become loving and loyal companions. However, it’s important to consider their individual needs and any potential health issues that may arise from their breeding history. Providing a stable and loving environment can help them transition into a happy retirement as a cherished pet. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at Monark Puppies about our retired adults or puppies! We love to answer any questions you may have!