Q: Should I get a puppy, adult, or mature dog?
The Puppy
Everyone wants a cute and cuddly puppy to play with, but remember what a HUGE responsibility that can be. What goes along with that puppy, along the kitchen tile is also chewing, wetting on the (by accident, of course), potty breaks every 2 to 4 hours, feeding 3 or 4 times a day, and more training than an adult dog who has already been socialized.
The Adult Dog
Now, on the other hand, an adult dog has gone through most of those painful processes already. They usually have better bladder control, are usually socialized and may even be calming down from the overly excitable stages of youth, but they can bring along other issues typical of their age. They may have a behavioral problem from whatever previous life they led. They may bark, or dig in the garden, or hate the cat. They may need some training. Are you ready?
Seniors
Lastly, we have the more mature, older dog. Older animals, with their normally lower energy level and bladder control, often settle in their new environment faster and with less damage than puppies. They can be cantankerous, but they can still be full of love and many years worth of play and happiness! So you decide! Do you have the time and energy for a puppy? Would you rather have a more stable adult dog, or do you go the route of a faithful, older companion that doesn’t need as much exercise. Only you can know for sure. Think about it before you make that commitment. Remember you are ultimately responsible for the dogs life and happiness.