What’s the most appropriate home?

By
Nancy Kerns
-
Published: Updated:
149

Here is a topic for discussion that was inspired by real-life events.

Two couples are both interested in a big, active dog at the shelter.

One couple is older. They own their home. Property is at least several acres, but unfenced. Husband is retired and home most days, puttering in garden and with hobbies. Wife works 30 or so hours a week. They formerly owned another big, active dog, who recently died of old age. They have a 2-year-old small dog who misses having canine company. They have a trainer who they have worked with previously and plan to do so again.

Second candidate couple is young, early 20s. They are renters. They also live on several acres, but their home property is fenced. They have another big, young, active dog, a female. They both work.

My bias in placing the dog was toward the older couple. While it’s true that they lacked a fenced yard for the dog, the fact that they own their home reassures me that they won’t be at the mercy of future landlords if they have to move for whatever reason. They also have the financial wherewithal to provide the dog with whatever medical or behavioral interventions he is likely to need. A week in training? Knee or hip surgery? Wouldn’t be a problem for these people.

Staff at the shelter was biased in favor of the young couple. The fact that their property was fenced, their youth, and that they were already dealing with a big, active dog made them seem more equipped to deal with the dog’s perceived need for activity.

I’m just curious: Where would most people, or most shelter staffers, end up placing a dog like this?

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149 COMMENTS

  4. Definitely the older couple but I am biased because I am in EXACTLY the same position.
    Older, home all the time, big un-fenced property with acres and acres of woods for our long walk everyday and the financial stability and medical know-how to look after issues that arise.
    We’ve had fifteen dogs over the years, many, many unadoptable for one reason or another and they all loved us and happily called this place HOME.

  6. Older couple, definitely. Experienced, someone home most of the time, financially secure, no chance of new little human distraction. See it all time. New Baby, beloved Canine sidelined. Not beloved anymore.

  8. In my more than 20 years of running a rescue organization I have found that it is important to listen to prospective adopters. I encourage them to talk and I will hear the clues to their suitability for a particular dog. From the description I’d be inclined to favor the older couple because of owning their home and apparent stability, but I would listen carefully to both parties, looking for those little details that will give me the insight needed to make the call. A home visit is essential.

    • Good advice. A home visit is absolutely essential, people can say anything. Even if they send photos, it may not show everything. They could have a fence, but gaps in it or under it. Another factor for me would be the dog’s behavior – is he a runner? The kind of dog who just disappears over the horizon if he gets loose? Or does he tend to hang on his property? I’ve had both extremes. My most recent rescue wouldn’t even leave the yard when he first got here. He’d be a type I would trust on an unfenced property.

      • like your comment home visit . you can even put a 30 foot leash on you and the dog to play ball if the older couple are in good shape. I use long leads out in front with my dogs because lawn is flatter to jump for frisbee

    • Completely agree with Joyce Fay. In my experience fostering dogs, I’d ask a lot of questions, then Listen to the answers. People can really give themselves away when you get them talking. But on the face of it, I’d pick the older couple too.

  9. What about the dogs already in those current homes? I think it is very important for the dog needing a home to meet each of those dogs as well as the humans. What if the dogs don’t mesh well? Yes, some of that can change for the good over time, but why not see how they do meeting in a neutral area. The rescue I work with requires it. What if it turns out that the dog needing a home isn’t good with small dogs?

  11. Depends on just how old the older couple is, but I would place the dog with them. Why? Because the young couple already have one large, active dog in a rental. The landlord may be adverse to having two large, active dogs in his rental. Also, if this couple is needs, or wishes, to move, it will be harder for them to find a landlord willing to rent to a couple with 2 large dogs, and one may be back in a shelter. That being said, I feel ALL people who rent and adopt a pet from a rescue or shelter should be required to provide documentation from the landlord that they know and approve of any animals in the home and what restrictions apply.

    • With the information provided and considering nothing else, I would place the dog with the younger couple, PROVIDED they can produce a signed statement from the landlord that they have permission to keep a 2nd large, active dog. When I was younger, I had a Rottweiler female in my rented apartment. she developed cancer and didn’t have long to live. My landlady saw a Rottie pup at the shelter and told them I had permission to adopt him. then she called me and told me that I needed to get this puppy! and so we did! Being a young person (or a renter) should not disqualify someone, especially if the young people in this scenario get out with their dogs and actively work with them. conversely, being an older person shouldn’t automatically disqualify a person, either.

  14. Another issue with the younger couple: are there children in the home? What age? They might reveal that they are planning to have a baby within the next year or two. That could be too much in the same year – new dog, new baby, and they might need to move to a bigger house.

    • Whew…that’s the truth! My husband and I were going to start trying to have a baby but we waiting for a puppy from our breeder. We both have children from previous marriage and decided that we had already purchased the puppy and we definitely didn’t want to have a puppy and a baby. I’m so thankful we put the baby on hold…our big Black Russian Terrier has kept us busy! We are still young so we have plenty of time for kids in the future.

  16. The rescue group I volunteer with gives fosters the power to choose the best match for the dogs; fosters can factor in many things, including the responses of the applicants and the dog during in-person meet and greet. In this process, the dogs and the humans usually make it obvious as to best match, but in the case where the foster feels there are multiple applicants who would make a good match, priority is given to which applicant applied first.

    The municipal shelter I volunteer with adopts out based on who applied first; shelter fosters do have more leeway in placing dogs.

  17. I am 33 years old and a renter. I have had dogs my entire life, including as an independent adult. I also work professionally with dogs (large kennel manager) and have for 15 years.

    When I was in my early 20s, I was denied to adopt a miniature dachshund on the basis that I did not have a fenced yard. For a, let me repeat, miniature dachshund. Despite working in a daycare where I brought my other dog. Despite having veterinary experience. Despite having nothing but good references.

    That dog was on the Rescue’s page for several YEARS after that.

    In my experience younger people are more willing to put forth the expenses for their animals than older people. They are more willing to feed better quality foods and socialize their pets more.

    You can’t simply look at the straightforward facts. You have to look below the surface. I’ve been a board member for rescues, I’ve performed behavioral evaluations on shelter dogs, I’ve fostered, I’ve transported, and I’ve used my own money to help dogs in need. I hike with my dogs, bike with my dogs, camp with my dogs. Yes, it was upsetting to be denied on the simple basis that I didn’t have a fenced yard.

    • Very biased reasoning. I am an older large rescue dog ‘owner’. He eats high quality, costly food and I would spare no expense for his health care. I have lived with him for eleven years, he is part of the family. He has a large back yard to relax and play in and loves the attention he gets from my grandchildren who also all have rescue dogs. I would sooner do without something myself than see him suffer or do without. Not many young people would or could do that.

        • Considering that nearly every response to this question voted for the older couple, and many of the responses offered stereotypes of younger pet owners as being unable / unwilling to take care of pets because of their age and fertility status, I think a claim of age bias against the elders is hard to defend (and I definitely fall into the “older” category myself). For argument’s sake, I would ask: how does this older couple plan to provide sufficient exercise for this “big, active” dog if they don’t have a fenced property? Are they active enough themselves to hike, bike or run with it every day on a leash? (the gentleman is described as spending his time “puttering in the garden”). Are they healthy enough to continue caring for the big active dog as they grow older still? Are they young / healthy enough that they are likely to outlive it? We’re told they own their own home, but does it necessarily follow they’re financially secure enough to have a new dependent? Many more questions to be asked, and I think it’s unhelpful to cry “bias” just because someone doesn’t share your (and everyone else’s) opinion.

      • Oh, wah. Read the rest of the post. If you think it’s acceptable to gloss over an adopter because they are younger and don’t own but it’s okay to make a dog miss out on a family that would love and care for it responsibly and the way they should, you’re the problem.

        As I said, the whole picture needs to be looked at. If rescue organizations are going solely off of the points offered in this article they are neither responsible nor reputable. There’s much more that needs to be taken into consideration.

        • I agree, J. The entire picture needs to be looked at. I volunteer train/adopt out in rescue. I have stopped judging potential adopters on whether they have a fenced yard. It’s a plus, but balance all pluses w minuses. I wish I knew before what I know now.

    • That was a very strange and unfortunate decision that ended with the dachshund stuck in a shelter for years when there was your good home available. However, older people aren’t necessarily less able or willing to spend money on pets. Having attained a very comfortable retirement, I don’t have to worry about money in the way it was a concern in my younger years. I don’t any longer have to spend time away from the home/dogs, and we have many more opportunities to hike off leash which we are able to do 3 times a week.
      I rented until I was 45, and actually had very supportive landlords. One place was on 5 acres in a lovely pastoral creekside setting where the dogs and I lived for 11 years. I think shelter/rescue staff should look at many variables and make the best decision they can. Plenty of renters are financially sound, and lots of homeowners are pending bankruptcy.

    • I’ve found some rescues and fosters simply don’t want to place their dogs. The bar is so high no one could pass it. Your problem was with the rescue. I doubt anyone would have been good enough for that mini-dachshund. Sounded more like a failed foster in that they simply didn’t want to give it up. I also suspect that some rescues aren’t really rescues at all. They just went through the legal paperwork so they can get tax breaks, accept donations and can legally keep more than the limit of dogs for their local ordinances.

      As for your bias toward older owenrs, my parents spent thousands on their previous dog, Candy. They basically had unlimited resources. She was everything to them and they never had to make a decision to put a dog down simply because they couldn’t afford treatment. Not so with younger families. Candy got the best food and snacks, she had plenty of socialization and unlimited attention. She was walked every night, even in the rain. And my parents were into their 80s. Candy died when they were both 89 after living almost 14 years. A very good age for a lab mix. (lab, golden, german shepherd). No dog could have had a better life.

      • My “bias” was simply anecdotal having worked in the industry for over a decade. It seems the majority of customers who are rude and argue pricing are older. I get plenty of rude younger customers too….those are the ones who are the most entitled by far. They’re just willing to pay more.

        Every age group has pros/cons. My point, maybe poorly worded, was that it’s imperative to look at the entire picture, not just the facts presented in the question at hand.

  18. I would need to see how the couples and their current pets interact with new dog before I would make a decision. I believe how the other pets/owners react would be the bigger deciding factor for me.

  19. I would have gone with the older couple for all the reasons you stated, but especially because they own their property so they are less likely to move around a lot or run into landlord issues AND they already have a relationship with a trainer that they plan to continue. I would want to make sure that the trainers methods were positive only and that the trainer was cognizant of the emotional needs of a dog coming out of a shelter environment who might have some trauma from the experiences that led him to be there.

  22. Definitely the older couple. My husband and I are older and adopted a large dog (our first) 3 years ago. Because I work from home I am able to spend a significant amount of time with the dog and cannot imagine how young couples who work full-time are able to provide the necessary companionship and afford the necessary medical care.

  23. Definitely the older couple, primarily for the reason that they own their own home. Rentals could be sold and the new landlord not allow pets. That could happen in five or seven years and if they can’t find a dog friendly rental, which is as we all know, difficult, what would happen to the dogs then. Older, very large dogs off and don’t make it out of shelters…

  24. I don’t have enough information yet. I need to know exercise routines, past experiences, talk about their past dogs and a big one for me – feeding and food. The home visit will tell me a lot too.

  25. older couple. I don’t think not having a fence is a problem, but when I went to adopt a dog 11 years ago, many shelters would not even talk to me since my yard wasn’t fenced. I finally found a dog online and went 200 miles to get him. He is the best dog ever. A long hair Jack Russell who was 2-3 years old. He is now deaf, but we use hand signals and clapping. I would never have left a dog outside by himself even if it was fenced. Too many squirrels, snakes, etc. I waited until I wasn’t working full time and now he has both of us to dote on him.

    • Thank you. A fence is no substitute for supervision. I have always made my dogs come inside with me even if it is for only a few minutes. Especially terriers can tunnel themselves out under any fence, unless there is a significant underground component.

  26. I would also consider the interactions of the dogs and people. In my experience I have had more dogs returned for not getting along with owners dogs then from moving. I also look at how much the dog likes the person wanting to adopt. It is not only cats that pick their owners. It also depends on what breed of dog is being adopted out. An Greyhound or a husky will need a fenced yard more then a Golden Retriever. So breed and behavior of dog, such as prey drive, must be taken into consideration. I would need more information to decide

  28. I would tend towards the older couple, providing their current 2-yr old dog (who is still thinking like a pup) will get to meet the prospective newcomer. What is the age of the large dog? Is it older and not interested in being bothered by a younger one?
    I am retired and my dog benefits from my being around all the time. A friend of mine is also retired, but loves to travel and her 3 yr-old dog exhibits separation behaviour. I think each case is different. Bottom line, be honest about the quality of life you promise to your new dog. Nothing is guaranteed, but living in a rental has a higher level of risk. The next landlord may have a strict rule about large dogs and dogs in general.

  29. I, too, vote for the older couple. Innoway, the fact that the younger couple has a fenced yard may lead to an over-dependence on this. Running late to a big meeting at work? leaving no time to walk the dogs? throw them in the backyard to play. having a new baby? sorry dogs, but maybe it’s best that you live in the backyard in a nice warm doghouse. … you can always be honest with the older couple, explain the concern about not having a fenced yard and ask how they plan to keep the dogs from getting out and roaming around.

  30. Definitely the older couple. They have the time, the space and they are both at home. I have had a dog all my life and even when I was working, my Boston Terrier went to stay with my parents while I was at work. Dogs need people and they deserve lots of love and attention. The older couple can give them both of those things.

  31. Please let the dog weigh in! Who does he like? And what about the dog already in the household? Lots of chemistry to consider. I tend toward the older couple, though, just because dog ownership in a young household is dicey, given all the possible changes mentioned in earlier comments. Middle age and beyond provide the stable life for adopting a dog.

  32. I am struck by the lack of information about the DOG. I have been doing rescue for more than 20 years. You can’t just say “It’s a big dog” and think that provides enough information. The key is the temperament match. Who is the dog, is it anxious, how will it be without people interaction all day, how does. it get along with other dogs? What is the dog’s health, what is the dog’s activity level?
    Another variable is whether the second couple is married. How long have they been together? What is their activity level? What do they spend their time doing when they are away from work? What has been their prior dog experience?
    And then of course, what is the chemistry between the different couples and the dog.
    There is lots more to this equation that is in the information you have provided. My concern is that your article is not representing what professional rescue does in making matches.

  34. I agree with most here and would choose the older couple. The un-fenced in yard is a non-issue for me….They obviously have and are walking there dogs, which is how people without fenced yards operate. They are much less likely to just put their dogs out and ignore them. AND, #1, they already have a trusted trainer…That’s so important!. Older couple for sure!!

  35. We are in a pandemic and we have no idea what it is going to be like afterwards. We are only adopting to humans who will likely be able to weather this storm and keep the pet. The older couple wins as long as the big dog is good with a small dog.

  38. Older couple. They’ve done this. They know what the requirements are and may be. What if the dog damages the rental property or the young couple has to move? Big potential to have the dog returned or worse.

  39. I’ve had a rescue deny me a dog because I only had a 4 ft fence and gasp- I let my dogs use the yard unsupervised. Yep, open the door and just let them go out. I go with not enough info. Do the resident dog(s) get along with the potential new dog? Does the older couple just let the dogs run at will? Anyone watch how both couple actually interact with the dog? But the older couple does have the time and probably more money so with the other questions answered I’d lean toward the older couple

  40. I am older, but retired, had labs or labs mixes my whole live. lost my last lab, at 12 1/2, after spending a fair chunk of cash keeping her alive and happy for two extra years. Finally had to let her go. wanted to downsize from mid sixties weight to 30 40 pounds. I own my home, feed top quality raw diet, and always travel everywhere with my dog. Early in day to avoid heat, I know the shady spaces to park, she is never alone. I own many acres of property, fenced huge yard, plus live at the beach, good for long walks. searched for ages for a smaller lab like dog, found one, and was turned down. the gal who ran the shelter would not even respond to my emails, and no phone listed. dog was on the sight for over a month before she was adopted. tried again, similar circumstances, same results. I am a great and experienced dog mom. Not fair!! Age discrimination!

    • Hy husband and I are both retired, have a fenced 1/2 acre yard that backs up to 100s of acres of open space and walking trails. We never leave our dogs alone for more than a few hours and always indoors. We walk them on the trails and they are in the yard with us when we are gardening or relaxing, then they come in with us. We just lost one of our two dogs and were looking to adopt a rescue. One question they always asked was what plans we had for the dog’s care if we could no longer care for it. In other words, If you die or go to a nursing home. Our answer is that we’ve made arrangements for one of our daughters to take our pets. Regardless, we just didn’t make the cut. I do believe there is some age discrimination going on–especially with some of the private rescue groups. Don’t give up. We finally found on at our local humane society–we were the first ones to meet him after his picture was posted on their website.

    • I live in MN and would love to find a life like you describe for my daughter’s dog. My daughter is 19. She moved out of the house and finally came to terms with the fact that she isn’t going to be able to provide the home her dog needs. The dog (3 years old) remains here at our family home and gets very little attention.

  42. First thought is to go with the older couple. But if they are financially viable, why not ask them to fence their yard? If not the whole thing, then a portion of it so that the dogs can go out without supervision when it’s not “walkies” time. I’ve never met a dog owner who regretted having a fenced yard.

    • We are an older couple and each of us got our own dogs when we retired. Our property is horse fenced, but not dog fenced and there is simply no viable place to install dog fence and still be able to mow and run irrigation. We each taught our dogs to stay on the property but they are never let outside without supervision. Which means they get lots of attention and always enjoy our physical presence, unlike many dogs I’ve seen in fenced yards that are let out and ignored.

    • Many neighborhoods prohibit traditional fencing and many shelter organizations feel Invisible Fence and similar underground fences are cruel or unreliable. We moved with an adopted dog to a house with a large yard, no traditional fence allowed in this neighborhood. When our previous dog died we tried to adopt and were told we couldn’t because of the Invisible Fence, they felt we wouldn’t keep up with the batteries, or always make sure the collar was on, or that it could have been damaged in a flood, or cut by a mower or animal’s teeth, etc. They felt if the dog didn’t mind getting zapped you couldn’t be sure it stayed in the yard. People have successfully trained their dogs to boundaries and instant recall for ages without fencing. We have friends who have consistently been denied adoptions because they live in a row house neighborhood with no yards at all. They simply walk their dog 3 or more times a day. Think what millions in NYC and other large cities have to do without yards. We never let a dog out unsupervised because of coyotes, poisonous mushrooms, eating deer poop, a stray dog, they dig a big ankle-breaking hole, etc. Or if you’re super paranoid it could be stolen by a passerby, so fence or not we walk ours at least twice daily for socialization and he’s watched when loose in our invisible fenced in yard.

  43. Bigger dogs require more work and attention, and although the younger couple already has a big dog and a fenced in yard and would probably make good pet parents, I feel the best suited home in this case would be the older couple. The fact the husband is home all day, they have experience with a big dog, they own their own home, and have invested in a trainer previously make this home more suitable in my opinion.

  44. Older couple, for all of the very good reasons stated above. My only caveats are: assuming they are working with a qualified force-free trainer, and assuming that a check with animal control shows now prior running-at-large violations due to no fence..

  45. Based on the info shared the older couple IF the personality of the existing dog is a good fit and the meet and greet goes well. If the shelter insists on the younger couple a call to the landlord should be placed first. I’ve done placements for rescue and have found many times when I call the landlord they aren’t on board and the dog would have been returned.

  46. Older couple, definitely. They are more established and likely to be where they are forever. And the dog will be their child forever. My husband and I are older and have 25 acres, unfenced. We always go out and walk and play with our 6 year old very active Golden Retriever. And we also have a smaller dog.

  48. I would favor the older couple as well. They are already established. They have experience with a big dog. One person is at home and the other only works 30 hours or so. Plus, less likely to need to rehome the dog due to circumstance changes, ie, landlord, new baby, new job, etc.

  49. Certainly I would choose the older couple who will have more time with the dogs.
    I have rescued big senior dogs since I was 55 until I was 78. I would spare no expense for these usually sick, aged, frightened dogs that often had no training at all. I trained and cared for these dogs until they died, often within 1-3 years and my heart was broken when each one passed away. Most of the dogs became well adjusted inside/outside pets. My vet came to my house to euthanize unless the dog was sick and I took him to an emergency clinic where they did the task.
    This year, because of my age my family convinced me to get a smaller dog so I chose the same type Northern breed but smaller. I never thought I could love a different breed but now have a Finnish Lapphund from a malamute breeder who knew me. That dog is so different from my previous dogs.

  52. Wow! That would be a tough decision. The younger couple has experience with a large dog and have a fenced yard. Do the dogs have access to the backyard whenever they want or would they be kenneled while the couple is at work? What kind of work do they do? How many hours would the dogs potentially be kenneled? What is their landlord’s policy on dogs? What is the couple’s plan if they have kids?

    The older couple also has experience with large dogs and one of them is retired. No fenced yard. What is their age? 60s, 70s, 80s? What is the age of the dog? I’m leary about the fact that they don’t have a fenced yard. How do they plan to keep the dog from roaming? Do they have grandchildren that come over?

    I guess to me, it would also depend on the personality of the dog to be adopted. I don’t know that I could make a decision. I’m kind of leaning towards the younger couple, but I agree with others that the landlord needs to be called to verify the renters’ policy. I’m not biased against the older couple though. The non-fenced yard would concern me.

  53. without knowing more about the individuals to choose between, I tend towards the older couple for all the reasons already addressed: experience, commitment to training, financial resources and indeed the home ownership. But to be totally fair one would have to meet and interview people in either scenario to arrive at a final decision.

  54. I would not focus on age or a fenced yard. Which couple’s dog is more likely to be a good companion for this dog? How do these people plan to exercise the dog(s)? We don’t have a fenced yard but we walk our dogs twice a day. How often are either couple gone from home? Seniors can be involved in lots of activities beyond a full time job. Do they have grand kids who visit often? How does this dog do with kids? Who plans to crate the dog while they’re away? The young couple may have more income than you think. Maybe they are planning to buy a house this spring. I vote for asking lots more questions before deciding.

  55. Good points on both sides. If possible, I would watch the dog interact with both couples. Also,I would have them bring in the other family pets to meet. Watch the interaction. I think the adoptable dog’s behavior would give you an answer!

  56. We are currently facing this issue where we live in west central NH. Many rescue sights list “Consider your age” when requesting to adopt. We have been dog owners for our whole lives and all of the 50 years we have been married. Our dogs are always with us, whether we are home or traveling. We have always camped, starting with a WWII pup tent, truck caps, soft- and hard-top pop-ups, Class C and Class A motorhome. We have a fenced yard. Our previous veterinarian became a best friend. We never skimped on care or food. We have always fed the best we could afford, according to Whole Dog Journal. We own our home and our yard is fenced. However, we are now deemed less than optimum candidates to adopt because we are in our 70s. This can be a lonely time in life and should not be made more so by denying us the companionship we have always enjoyed and valued.

  57. I can only discuss my personal experience. I’m older and a renter. There was a cairn terrier with separation anxiety and physically unstable and 3 previous owners. There were 17 applications at the rescue for him. I’d had 33 years with cairns, and got one safely through EPI, so I was chosen. When I first met him, he also chose me. Come to find out he had irritable bowel, so I took care of that, I trained him from day 1, took him to work with me, walked him 3 times/day and played all kinds of games with him to keep his mind busy. After 3 years, he’ can stay home without any issues, his separation anxiety is gone and he’s totally physically healthy. I’m in my 70’s.

  58. Definitely the older couple. The only factor in favor of the young couple is the fence, and that is a VERY temporary situation. As renters, they may be pushing their luck with a second large dog. Two large dogs, unsupervised most of the time, either in the house or left outside in the yard (!!!) would probably incline most responsible house owners to boot them out at the earliest opportunity. I know I would.

  59. I’d favor the older couple. They are home during the day and can spend more time with the dogs. I would first ensure that the new,bigger dog gets along well with their existing small dog. If so, size difference isn’t an issue. The little one is used to being with a bigger dog.

  60. Depends. How old is the dog? Exactly how old is the couple? If it’s a young dog, is the couple young enough to outlive the dog? Is the ‘older’ couple physically able to handle a large dog? Maybe an older and/or small dog would be better for an ‘older’ couple?

  61. What are the older couple’s age? Do they have the ability to lift/put a big dog in the car if it gets sick? Consider that they will be getting older, too, and may face medical issues. Once their dog gets older, he/she will be having more medical issues. How many senior dogs get sent to shelters when their elderly caretakers can’t take care of them anymore? If they have a plan in place for those circumstances, then that’s a different story.

    My father in his 80s wanted to get a puppy after my parents’ Yorkie died. But they got her 13 years earlier when they could handle her. They just can’t manage one now full time though they do watch my dog when I am at work. But he was 5 when I adopted him. They let him out in the yard and feed and pet him and he seems satisfied with that. I had been turned down by other rescues who thought my parents would be better off with a senior dog but I had my experiences nursing seniors in their old age and that has a lot of challenges, too.

    I know neighbors who have fenced yards or are home all day but never walk their dogs. Are the people who work full time engaged in other activities or will their dogs play an active role in those activities, too? As others have said, a good conversation and making the right queries will determine the best fit. Perhaps posing “what if” questions would help, for example, what if you are forced to relocate for job, medical, or other reasons? Why are you getting a dog?

  62. Definitely the older couple. Experienced and committed having lived a lifetime with their previous dog, prepared to invest in training, at home most of the time. The younger couple as you say may have to move, may split up, they have one active dog already – two at home on their own could become a problem.

  63. There just isn’t enough information to make a good decision. First off saying an ‘older’ couple is very open to interpretation while you specify the other couple is in their 20’s. And there could be a big difference between a couple in their 80’s vs a couple in their 50’s although both are ‘older.’ It would also be a good idea to speak with and get input from their trainer and even their vet.

    For the younger couple, how long have they been in the rental home? Have they provided written permission from the home owner or rental management company to have another big dog? Since both are working, how long have they been with their current employer. How many hours a day are they away from home (work plus commute). Do either or both have to travel with their job? What will they do with the dogs when they are not home. Also check with their vet. Does the adoptive dog get along with children? Have the younger couple considered the impact if they do have children in the future?

    What is the gender of the dog to be adopted and it’s age? What is the gender of the older couple’s dog? The young couple have a female. If the adoptive dog is also female, SSA is something to consider. Is the adoptive dog good with other dogs? Absolutely must have a M&G with the dogs in both families as the dogs getting along takes priority.

  64. I would have chosen the older couple for the same reasons! Had already made up my mind before I got to you saying you chose them, and could hardly wait to get to the end to see if you did,
    ! Wise choice!

  65. Yes the older couple but no fence can be a problem. Their age is such they cant run around if the dog goes wandering or gets lost.
    However I can say that the mute r totally at the mercy of those who adopt them. Weshow shld learn to keep them by our side through thick and thin.
    For the dog I can say whoever adopts him God blesd him always.

  66. As a breeder, I’ve sold many dogs over the years to carefully evaluated homes and don’t think there is one right answer to this. I’d probably go with the older couple just because they have “provedn themselves” able to handle a large active dog and have the time to do so. On the other hand, people often forget how much work their dog was when it was younger since the senior years are generally much easier. Can they actually handle a lively dog now? Will they be able to stay in their home if there are future health issues? The younger couple probably thinks it would be nice to have a second dog to entertain the first dog – and I can see both dogs spending a whole lot of time in the yard entertaining themselves, digging and barking and annoying the neighbors. Time is probably an issue already, and if they plan to have children the dogs may end up neglected or returned. This is a case where getting to know the people and understanding their expectations is very important. Filling out a form is NOT sufficient.

  68. I’m part of a national rescue organization. I have placed many dogs and would have chosen the older couple. I’ve seen too many times when younger couples have adopted a dog only later to Give it up to or return it to the shelter because they had a child. And they feared the dog hurting the child. It’s happened many many times. I select for the good of the dog, the ability of potential adopter to properly care for the dog, their experience and stability.

  69. Anyone who has done any adoptions, for any animal adoption-type program, knows that this is a no brainer: definitely the older couple! Why? For all of the reasons that you wrote about and more:
    1. The husband is at home most of the time, so the dog will likely get a lot more attention.
    2. There is evidence to suggest that they took great care of their previous dog who passed away at an older age.
    3. There is evidence to suggest that they put money into their dogs. They put money into trainers, etc. Dogs are expensive.
    Based upon ONLY the information you gave, the older couple seem to be more settled and would be a better option. However, I would ask a lot more questions of both couples before adopting the dog out. I always like to know: Where will your dog sleep at night? Will your dog be allowed in the house at all times? Will your dog be confined within your house to a particular room? If no fence, how do you intend to contain your dog and what are the hazards nearby? What if your dog is sick at night and has to go out numerous times in the night to go potty? Are there children involved? Grandchildren? Who is your vet, and may I contact her/him? Are you healthy enough to care for a dog who might live 12 years?

  71. The older couple. That describes my hoped for situation, except that I’d have a large fenced – in area for my doggies. I’d never give them the “run” of several UNFENCED acres. This, I feel is especially important while the new dog is decompressing after her/his shelter/rescue experience and getting used to her/his new home. If I were the rescue/shelter, I’d request the older couple to build a dog run large enough for both dogs to actually run in it, inspect it, and then happily place the doggie in her/his new home with the older couple.

  73. The older couple. Their experience, apparent financial stability and the fact that they own their own home tips it in their favor for me. Of course, I’m biased: I’m an older lady who adopted a larger breed rescue four years ago. He is loved, cared for and has my Jack Russell as his “big” buddy.

  75. Either! I would need more information for a final decision, but at this point both sound like potentially good homes. Too many dogs are in shelters and if interviews go well, the adoptees have a plan for the dog and how the dog fits into the family for years to come, I think both homes sound potentially wonderful.

    Also, I am always skeptical of using a fenced in yard as a major criteria. So many families I’ve worked with have fenced in yards and unhappy dogs. There are ways to raise happy, healthy, well cared for dogs without a fence.

  76. The older couple. They have more time to give, more patience and generally willing to spend more money. When I was younger with kids I had less time and money for my fur babies. Now my kids are grown and my pups are spoiled rotten. They get the best food, have sweaters, coats, strollers and car seats. One ended up with alopeciaX, lost most of her hair and needed clothes to wear during the day and pj’s at night. We’ve traveled hundreds of miles to get the best medical care. My last pom had 4 surgeries in 3 years) We take them on vacations with us. Older couples are generally more stable. They own their homes and are through moving around. They spend more time at home. I’ve watched younger people lock their dogs up in crates all day while they’re at work. No food or water. Or leave them chained up outside often without shelter. Then they come home, leave again to go shopping, out to eat, take kids to activities and the poor dogs are locked up again. Breaks my heart.

  78. Like most of those responding, my first take is the older couple, and for most of the oft-cited reasons. Certainly the chemistry between the two dogs would be an important factor, as would learning, through conversation and possibly checking personal references, how the younger couple has met their dog’s needs despite their work schedules and renting, and their plans for having a family might warrant a baby and child check of the potential adoptee. But I would first focus on what an experienced trainer could detect about the younger couple’s dog. Have they trained him? Do they seem to have a good bond? Is the dog unattended in the fenced yard when they are away? How about when they are at home? Having a fenced yard used to be almost a requirement to adopt a dog, especially a large active one. Now we know how barren such an environment can be, how over-used, and how sad the canine lives contained in them. Getting another dog may ameliorate the first dog’s loneliness, but over the long haul can’t provide all the necessary elements fora quality life. On the other hand, if the young couple has enriched their dog’s environment, trained him well and includes him in their activities and build their family schedule around meeting his needs, to me that would spell a dedicated family and likely to be an excellent home. All other things being equal, the dog should get final say!

  79. My gut instinct is in favor of the older couple. We are that financially stable, home owners &it’s makes everything so much easier…but I’ve also known, & was myself, an excellent home for my fur babies even when I was young and renting. I think I’d do a meet & greet with both couples & their dogs & see what this dogs preference is because that matters too.

  80. My gut instinct is in favor of the older couple. We are that financially stable, home owners &it’s makes everything so much easier…but I’ve also known, & was myself, an excellent home for my fur babies even when I was young and renting. I think I’d do a meet & greet with both couples & their dogs & see what this dogs preference is because that matters too.

  81. Working couples can make caring for a dog work but it is not easy and can be expensive. I did not hear anything about children. Caring for children can take all of a person’s non-working time. Future children can be problematic. The fact that you are hearing mostly from older folks demonstrates that they have more time to devote to furry companion knowledge and care. Property that is owned and can be fenced is always desirable, especially for large dogs. I wouldn’t be without a very large fence. It is not safe for dogs to be loose and dogs really like to be off leash. Mine chase squirrels and birds that come to feeders in the fence (never catch them), dig holes and take their time about their business. They have plenty of shade and are outside all summer.

    • We had one problem with this–adopted a Dane to a young couple and when they had a child, they returned the dog. Pissed me off. But, on the other hand, we had other young couples who adopted a dog and then had children and kept the dog. And it can be tricky having a child that is crawling and toddling with a dog the size of a Dane or Wolfhound, as the dog can easily knock them down (not because the dog is aggressive–just big).

  83. I lean toward the older couple because of all you mentioned in your article and I think they are the more stable home. Their small dog is used to large dogs. The young couples young, big dog may end up not getting along with another big dog. The older couple have had two dogs till recently and will understand how to integrate another dog into the family. And I must admit a bias against people working full time having a dog. I don’t believe dogs should be left all day and wonder if the young couple want the second dog as ‘company’ for their present dog. Dogs need people around.
    As for the fence vs non fenced, although I prefer fenced yards, dogs can be trained to not go off their property and there are several acres.
    Just my thoughts

  84. I agree with those who say “not enough information.” If I had to make a decision based only on the information provided, I’d go with the older couple due to their proven track record. However, I’d be very concerned that the little dog and big dog might not get along, even if an initial meeting or two went well. I do want to add a couple observations. One downside to older adopters is health: I’m 67, and I do worry whether my partner could handle all three of our dogs if something happened to me; two of them are under three. On the other hand, I wouldn’t dismiss a renter too quickly. My partner has rental properties, and he’s found dog owners to be reliable tenants overall. Yes, there’s a bit more cleanup when they move out, but in general, they keep their unit up, and the rent is on time.

    • As someone who works with Great Dane and Irish Wolfhound rescue, we adopt to homes with small dogs all the time (at one time, we even had a small dog ourselves–a little girl that wandered up to our yard one day that we found huddled against our fence and, of course, just never left). We’ve not experienced any problems with the larger ones not getting along with or attacking the small ones (we’ve had dogs that didn’t like cats, but not ones who weren’t good with smaller dogs). We took in 2 Danes that “killed” a Chihuahua (dead Chihuahua was in the Danes’ yard, no one saw what happened, Danes were blamed). We tested these dogs up one side and down the other with small dogs and could never get them to react in any threatening or aggressive manner (but did not adopt those two to homes with small dogs just to be very safe).

  85. I vote for the older couple. Our farm country yard is not fenced. My husband is retired and I work part time for a nonprofit. Our medium large shelter dog is the center of our world. Nothing is too good for her. She gets 2-3 mile long walks daily. She gets doggy play dates and vet approved homemade dog food. She gets regular checkups and dental care. She goes everyplace we go where dogs are allowed, HomeDepot, dog friendly restaurants, farm markets, camping and TD Bank. For no dogs allowed places, one of us takes her for a walk. Older doesn’t mean sedentary!

  86. I ran a national rescue for 8 years and we had a comprehensive application that we used. So on the surface I would go with the older couple. But in my rescue, we always looked at the written answers to see what knowledge an adopter had toward dogs and their care and attitudes that were expressed.

  88. We are an Older,active retired Couple. Everything already stated for the older couple, I’m for it.
    We are an older couple and lost our Rescue Chow Chow a year ago.He was beautiful beyond our belief.
    Due to our enthusiasm, and this being our 3rd Chow Chow – we did overlook a couple of important issues.
    The immense expense that does occur with any ownership of a pet, young or old.
    Our love and devotion was and is always in place. Our income is not what it once was.
    We have tracked back on our expenses for our loving pets and boiled down to the fact could we be OK – financially if our pet and us were looking at health problems that simply were $15,000. one year – $8,000 another year.
    If this sounds cold and unloving …. we apologize. We miss our Chow Chow’s ! We miss the time and immense attention we gave to each one. Never had they been left with a house sitter as we travel. The pet was with us on every trip, every hotel, every outdoor cocktail happening.
    Things change and if an older couple has the financial means to cover immense pet health care – I’m all for it.
    Things change and financial pictures as one is older change.
    GOOD NEWS: a very dear friend of our travels for her company. We are now the official babysitters for a precious dog. A win win for all of us.

  89. Depends on the breed of the dog. I work with Great Dane and Irish Wolfhound rescue. We will adopt Great Danes to homes without a fence (if they have had dogs in the past and have demonstrated they don’t let the dogs run at large, etc). We will not even consider an unfenced home for a Wolfhound. Wolfhounds are sighthounds and many a wolfhound will promptly ignore and forget any and all training to chase a furry little critter–what they were bred to do and it’s just too difficult for training to overcome genetics for some dogs. Once a Wolfhound is on the chase, roads are “nothing”, cars are “nothing”. For a Dane, I’d probably favor the older couple. For a Wolfhound, I wouldn’t even consider the older couple unless they were willing to put up a fence.

  90. My first inclination would be the older couple for all the reasons listed. But I would have to hear far more about both, and definitely do a home visit, because what looks obvious on the outside, may not be the case. My own experience is a perfect example.

    Several years ago, I had a 2-year-old Gordon Setter who did not get along with my 3-year-old Irish Setter. They had to be kept strictly separated or they would most definitely try to kill it each other. After a year of consulting with trainers, behaviorists, vets, etc., a friend told me about her neighbors, an older, retired couple, living on 5 acres, who had just lost their 10-year-old Gordon and wanted another one. For more than forty years of owning Setters and swearing I would never give one up, for any reason, I realized I was being selfish, that the constant tension in the house was making both dogs miserable. So I agreed to let him go, but insisted on retaining co-ownership and their promise that he would be returned at the slightest sign of trouble, and reassured that they understood the importance of him being an only dog.

    On the other hand, when my husband and I were in our twenties, about to be married, and living with my future in-laws, we bought a typically energetic Irish Setter puppy. Shortly after that, we packed up our stuff and drove cross country to California, with our dog happily dancing back and forth in the back seat. We finally found a landlord who would accept dogs, and moved into a one-bedroom apartment.

    Between the two, the older couple were far more suited to own a dog. It didn’t work out that way.

    I kept in touch with the older couple, and all seemed well, even though they shaved off his gorgeous coat and let him balloon to 100lbs. after switching from raw to kibble. All of which upset me, but according to his new owners, he was happy, loved their grandkids and enjoyed chasing quail on their property. Then I didn’t hear from them for several months, no emails, no photos. Finally I got a letter saying he hadn’t worked out and they had given him to their groomer who ran a pit bull rescue. I reminded them that I co-owned him and he should have been sent back to me. They shrugged. We forgot. The groomer, who had placed him with a family that had a Golden Retriever, didn’t care either, and refused to tell me who they were or where they lived. I never heard from the couple again and have no idea where my precious Gordon ended up.

    In the second story, my husband and I worked part-time jobs, so our Irish Setter was rarely alone, and was much loved by all our neighbors in the apartment complex. Plus, she got to go to a fenced baseball park, every day, rain or shine, where she could run and chase tennis balls to her heart’s content. She couldn’t have had a better life or been more loved.

    So,on first glance, I’d say the older couple. From my own experience, the younger couple.

  91. First instinct would be the older couple but I would want to know more about the dog available and if possible have the families dogs meet the dog available to determine which would be the best match as a family.

  92. I would tend to favor the older couple for many reasons. I have adopted 2 senior dogs -one was 12 years old and the other 14 years old. Both adoptions were very heartwarming and you learn so much from them on how life should be lived. My latest adoption was a lab/GPR mix – he was supposed to be 6 years old and from the encouragement of my family to adopt a younger dog I felt this was an excellent choice. I am 71 years old and have had him for 3 years now. He came from Texas as a stray that it appears was abandoned in the middle of nowhere – he had heart worm treatment and when I received him he needed 2 more weeks of quiet time. Training has been a challenge and expensive and still working on a couple of problems. He is very anxious and needs to be walked and played with to keep his energy from becoming a problem. It turns out ,it seems, that he was only 1 1/2 years old and 60 lbs. and now is 98 lbs. Much care has been given to him from meds to grooming costs. I am very fortunate that I have the time and the financial resources needed to give this to him. He is smart , loving and would not ever say it was a mistake to take this on at my age. I would wonder if the younger couple would be able to do all of this ? It is all about the dog and being able to give him or her a wonderful life. I will never give up on getting him to be the ‘perfect dog’. Once you adopt a dog you should be ready to take on whatever happens – Also plans are in place if something does happen to me I cannot take care of him.

  93. Wow, everyone has an opinion, and I do too! I’m a co-founder of Turbo Kees Foundation, a Keeshond dog breed rescue organization. Based on the limited amount of information provided in your article, I could not make a decision. Reasoning, there simply isn’t enough info about either adopter or the dog in question. With that said, in the shelter environment, there is usually not enough time to really get to know the dogs, nor does shelter life really allow the dog(s) to be “themselves.” Shelters usually do not have the resources nor personnel to screen potential adopters. Age is a number as far as people are concerned, IMHO. I’ve been doing dog rescue for nearly 24 years, and our rescue group has some of the most strict policies anywhere. I’ve know older folks who are in better shape, than young folks… everything can be & is relative!

  94. Older Couple who is home all day. Dog love human companionship. The couple who works might be getting a dog to keep the other dog company all day, but there is no one that can correct any bad behavior and left to their own devices. If they work shifts and like hikes and outdoor activity, then they might be better. Just because they rent doesn’t mean they will give up their dog when they move. It depends on everyone’s lifestyle and what needs to be decided is what is best for the dog? No straight answer here.

  95. I would choose the older couple for many of the reasons stated above but the most important being that husband is retired and is puttering outside every day so the dog will not be crated or penned but be able to enjoy the big yard throughout the day. Also, they have already committed to a trainer to help ease the adjustment and their small dog misses having a canine companion
    .

  96. I favor the older couple. They’re more stable and as previously stated, have the means to care for the dog’s medical and training needs as well as the time to spend with the dog. Just because a person is retired doesn’t mean he/she can’t handle an active dog, especially if they have experience with that type dog. A well trained dog can be taught recall and other training cues to teach them how to stay within their boundaries.

  97. I think that there is no right or wrong answer here. If both families meet the shelter’s requirements, both are likely to be adequate owners and should be able to adopt the dog. First come first serve.

    I would submit that you cannot infer which home would be more suitable based on a few general facts about each family. How would you even begin to define “better owner” in this scenario? The decision would be based on personal bias, not data. Personal experience that is not quantified, although not useless, is still bias.

    Since past behavior is the best predictor of future behavior, how many animals have they owned in the past, and what happened to each one? That’s a great question to ask, knowing there’s no guarantee of truthful answers.

    I just think that without an accurate and detailed history, there’s no way to judge the “better” candidate based on the information given. Either family would be adequate, based on available info.

  98. I vote for the older couple. I read through Carole Rashella’s story and the truth is you can never know how life will play out once you place the dog. I think all you can do is interview the family, do a reference and maybe a home check and make a decision. From the description, the older couple sounds more stable, if the younger couple were home owners and had experience with a bigger dog then maybe but it is nice for the owner to be home during the day. I know of a co-worker who got a companion for his dog and they both sleep all day waiting for him to come home.

  101. Older couple. A big dog would not need as much exercise as a medium or small dog so a fenced yard is not always necessary especially when the older couple is retired and can take the dog to a park or on walks around their property.

  102. Older couple; more stable and they own their home!! When I was a renter we had two large dogs which I had to rehome when my marriage went south. There is nothing more disheartening than to rehome your dogs. I have since remarried we own our home and adopted 3 retired racing greyhounds! After their passing we now have a 3 year old English lab that we have had since she was 7 weeks. You cannot beat a stable “older couple”.
    I am surprised the shelter is leaning towards a young couple who rents just cuz they have a fence!

  103. I’ve lived this.

    When my parents were 75 they wanted a puppy after the loss of their dog. My sister and I couldn’t find anyone willing to sell them a puppy because of age bias. They wanted their puppies to go to young families with children. Think about it. Both parents work and the kids are at school all day. My parents own their home, it’s fenced and has a big yard. They are experienced owners who have always had big dogs. Both are healthy and active and home all day. They had nothing but time to spend training and playing with a dog.

    My sister found a lovely lab mix puppy. I told her to lie. Go there with her son and say it was for them. Best decision we ever made. Candy had a fabulous life, living to almost 14 years old, which is pretty old for a lab. She was the center of the house and was loved and cared for. She was the best thing that could have happened to them as she kept them active and social.. They walked every night and the entire neighborhood knew her. Everyone morned when she finally died of congestive heart failure, at home, surrounded by everyone that loved her.

    Now, at 90 my parents have a new puppy. She’s only about 45 lbs but was from the same lab rescue that I got my Diana pawPrints. They were not in the least prejudiced against my parents. Both are still active, although my Dad has slowed down. They both walk Dolly every night. My Dad is the trainer as Dolly can do her sit and down at 4 months. If both of them should pass away before Dolly does, Diana pawPrints and I will be adding her to our family. We always look out for our own in my family. No dog goes to a rescue or shelter. So my Mom says they are just fostering Dolly until she goes to live with me. She is the best thing that could have happened to them. They were devastated when Candy passed, but Dolly has given them a new joy. She is so outgoing and affectionate. The cuddler that Candy never was. Dolly will extend my parents’ life as they live for her.

    So I would go toward the older couple. A stable home, stable finances, abundant attention. That dog will have a fabulous life with them.

  104. I conduct Adoption Home Visits for a sizeable rescue organization in New England / NY area. I would choose the older couple, but on the condition that they fence in an area of their large yard. The young couple both working every day, leaving both dogs alone, is problematic, and really a non-starter for any adopted dog, but especially for one coming from a shelter, from who knows what type of conditions. Also, all the reasons you cited for the older couple as well–established, former dog owners, own, etc. I would not, however, give approval to the older couple if they did not agree to build a fenced-in area.

  105. No fence, no dog. That would be my preference for a large, active dog. At least on just several acres, that is not a lot of land. A rabbit runs by and an active dog is away on a chase. My husband and I are an older couple who had to move to a retirement community for health reason. We advocated (and helped pay for) a private dog park so our dog can run free multiple times a day.

  106. No fence, no dog. That would be my preference for a large, active dog. At least on just several acres, that is not a lot of land. A rabbit runs by and an active dog is away on a chase. My husband and I are an older couple who had to move to a retirement community for health reason. We advocated (and helped pay for) a private dog park so our dog can run free multiple times a day. Xxxxxxx

  107. Definitely the older couple. What good is a large fenced yard, if neither of the owners is home to give the dogs attention? In fact, they may just leave the dogs outside all day while no one is home. The older couple may not have a fenced in yard, but they just lost a big active dog to old age, so they must be doing something right. I hate to generalize, but I can’t tell you how many posts I’ve read on my local NextDoor site by people trying to rehome their dogs due to having to move and not being able to take the dog with them to a new apartment or they are unable to find a rental home which will allow their dog. The older couple just has more stability.

  108. I’d vote for the older couple … but it doesn’t matter if the rescue organization discriminates against older adopters … and several do. I am 70 and five years ago I had my eye on a middle sized curly coated mutt at a local large rescue (Richmond, CA). I kept getting the runaround until I got one of the middle aged women volunteers to admit that they preferred to give their larger dogs to “families” and tried to interest me in a Chihuahua. My friend, who loves chihuahuas, exclaimed “But Ruth loves large furry or long haired dogs”. I tore up my application in disgust.
    And another friend at 75 found only one local rescue organization (of about eight) that would give her a younger dog… Not a puppy, but a dog about three years of age. She looks frail, but her husband is younger and loves to walk the dog. She felt they wanted an assurance she wouldn’t die!
    In both cases I believe this was ageism. I have three dogs and two of them have their own sofa. The chow has a choice of three large dog beds. My now 80 year old friend lavishes love and friendship on her dog and so does her dog walking husband.
    I believe most rescue orgs would choose the younger couple. And my third dog, a gorgeous long haired girl who looks like a setter crossed with a Holstein cow, was dumped at my dog park a year after my failed adoption attempt.

  109. I favor the older couple. The husband is home a lot, and the wife only works 30 hours a week.
    I feel this is important. They have the time and energy to devote to their dogs.

    The younger couple both work full time. Therefore I’m assuming aren’t home a lot during the week and when/if they are, they don’t have as much time to devote to the dog.

    I’ve seen this happen a lot. People get dogs, and they don’t have a lot of time for them.

    I’m definitely in favor of the “older” couple.

  110. I would vote the older couple for many of the above cited reasons. The trainer is a kingpin in that whole scene, too, as far as socialization into the home, setting up manners expectations for the new dog (as well as refreshing the small one), etc. And, the companionship of the older couple whose lives are solidly stable. If one or both should develop health problems necessitating life changes, hopefully they will have identified a family member or good “dog” friend to help them out with animal care or assume ownership/ Some vet schools, such as Colorado State U. have a program to assume dog care for the dog’s life if a sum of money in some form is bequeathed to the vet school. Lots of options.

  111. Four years ago, after we lost both our beloved older dogs to cancer, I began looking for a new rescue. A rescue where a friend had gotten a dog had a younger dog that I thought was perfect for my husband (then age 77) and me (age 68). Since 1972, we have always had a high-energy Vizsla, along with a rescue with issues, so def familiar and comfortable with a large, active hunting breed, and are active in training classes, a dog breed club and with our local rescue. Plus, retired with a large fenced yard and a 1/2 acre fenced field, with references from our vet and a friend who runs a rescue. But (without a home visit), we were interviewed and refused for a medium-sized terrier mix, the rescue saying that we were too elderly for a younger, high-energy 30 lb. dog and should look for a small older dog. Having never been subject to ageism before, it felt like they simply thought we were too old—and that’s what they said. (Soon after, we adopted another terrier who belonged to a hoarder and a Vizsla pup. We do agility, parkour, and other fun classes and I am now 72. Just sayin’.)

  112. On the evidence give, the older couple.
    But it would depend on my interviewing them and seeing how they react to the dog and what they describe about themselves.
    Being ‘older’ myself, I have resolved that any future dog I might get will be a middle-aged rescue/rehoming
    Older people, might die depending on what is meant by older.
    Young couples might end up divorced, or needing to move and might not find another residence with permission to have pets.
    I would be very very wary of homing any dog with those in rental accommodation.

  113. Re the old vs. young debate, I personally believe it’s pointless and does little but reinforce age stereotypes. Instead, how about focusing on the actual attributes that are important in placing the dog: is the prospective owner’s physical condition good enough to give the dog sufficient exercise with/without a fenced yard; does s/he have sufficient financial resources; does s/he have knowledge of what s/he’s undertaking OR resources to learn, etc. Age makes no difference in most cases!

  114. I agree with most comments in favor of the older couple and also for the reasons many have set out.

    It appears shelter staff placed a higher priority on activity requirements, and less emphasis on the experience the older couple had with their previous large, furry companion through all or most life stages.

    Also, the ability to fund ongoing care as aging occurs, which tends to progressively cost more.

    And, the fact that one person is at home most times and the other works part time, suggests that pet and owner will have more time to be companions for each other.

    Unlike two people (of any age) working full time, perhaps hoping a new companion will keep the current one company while they’re usy working.

  115. The older couple for many of the reasons stated above. They probably aren’t that old as the woman is still working and already have a working relationship with a trainer.
    The younger couple’s circumstances could change quite dramatically – job change, house move, children.
    I might suggest that the older couple try and fence an area of their property.

  116. I’m leaning towards the older couple in this case. I’d give them the dog with the stipulation that they fence a part of their land. That would lessen the chance that the new dog would surprise them with some unanticipated behavior. In our case, we have a fenced yard with a big gate that we open to the rest of our land. We can keep the dogs in a safe location to prevent strange dogs from coming onto our land, and the dogs from exploring the surrounding woods unsupervised.

    The younger folks would have two dogs to exercise thoroughly each day to avoid having their rental property damaged. They should not let the dogs outside loose in a large yard all day without supervision, so the idea that the dogs will “exercise each other” isn’t wise.

    Over my 40 years as a breeder and a dog rescue volunteer I have placed dogs with older and younger couples and find that, in either case, the individual people and the individual dogs are more important than any general consideration.

  119. The older couple because of all the reasons mentioned and their stability. If they have children they are grown and their pets are their babies. They’re not giving them up! With a young couple If it comes to a decision between a child who’s developed allergies to the family pet or the pet, you can be sure the pet will be dumped.

  121. I tend too to vote for the older couple merely because of they can offer the security and stability because they own a home. As a property manager, I’ve seen enough cases of younger people having to move to another rental that doesn’t allow dogs. Or perhaps allow dogs up to a certain size. I don’t think age is the factor, but instead security of knowing that dog will not be displaced or rehomed later because of the issues with renting. Statistics show that people tend to move every 5 years and while I hate to throw this young couple into a statistical category, it is something that should be considered.

  122. The older couple. I’m biased, because I have just spent a year trying to adopt a small dog. I’m older, but I’m stable. I live in a retirement home that welcomes dogs, and probably will live here for the rest of my life. But with most rescues, being older is strike 1 and not having a fenced yard is strike 2. I’m not considered, even for the breeds that are known as perfect apartment dogs. If the rescue even bothers to reply to my application, it is curt if not rude. I finally adopted through a small rescue run by a person who considers each case separately, not as a list of boxes to be checked. The dog loves it here and is adored by the other residents. The adoption system needs a total overhaul!

  123. More importantly, how will the dog already in the home react to the new dog? And what kind of relationship will be formed by the new canine companions? I had a wonderful Lab/Chow mix, Ursula. I can honestly say she was the easiest dog I’ve ever had, both in temperament and training. However, I fostered a male Corgi mix, Curly, and there was something about his personality and those 2 were constantly getting into trouble, doing things Ursula would never do herself (or with any foster or permanent resident dogs after Curly). Or maybe, like my current situation between one of my dogs and a foster, where there is an obvious rub so I have to be super cautious of their interactions.

    Dog relationships aside, though, I hope the shelter gives the older couple proper consideration. They have experience with a larger, more active dog, they have the resources to care for the dog, and at least one of them is retired and able to give the dog interaction throughout the day. “Retired” does not mean “incapable.” I do feel as though shelters and rescues may have a bias against older people, however, we “old folks” have a great deal of wisdom, insight and often resources that make us exceptional homes.

  124. I would do an athome inspection. I would want to see the physical condition of the older couple. I don’t like an unfenced yard for any dog. I don’t think it’s far to say yea or nay because of a person’s age, but I can tell you, as an elder citizen with 4 dogs (it didn’t start out that way, shit happens and I now have 4 dogs). I don’t think looking at a person’s age says a lot. Anyone for a variety of reasons can have a heart attack, come down with cancer or any other number of things. Again, an at home inspection would tell anyone a lot.