Top 10 Reasons to Adopt an Older Dog - courtesy of the ASPCA

-- 1. What You See Is What You Get You already know their size, personality, and grooming requirements. No surprises!

2. Easy to Train You CAN teach an old dog new tricks! They have better focus because they're calmer than puppies. And older dogs already speak "human." 3. Seniors are Super-Loving

Ask anyone who has ever adopted an older or senior dog. They'll tell you how devoted and grateful these dogs are. It's an instant bond.

4. They're Not a 24-7 Job Grownup dogs don't require the constant monitoring puppies do.

5. They Settle in Quickly Older dogs have already learned what it takes to get along with others and become part of a pack.

6. Fewer Messes Older dogs are likely to already be housetrained.

If not, they learn fast. And since they already have their adult teeth, seniors are less likely to be destructive chewers.

7. You Won't Bite Off More Than You Can Chew A puppy or young dog can be anywhere from an 8- to 20-year responsibility. Adopting an older dog is still a serious commitment, but it can be a shorter one.

8. They Enjoy Easy Livin' Find a dog that enjoys your activity level. Older dogs still need exercise, but they won't need to run a marathon every day.

9. Save a Life, Be a Hero When you adopt an older dog you'll feel the rewards every day you spend together.

10. They're CUTE!