Senior Westie Before & After Getting His Own Puppy Will Make Your Heart Happy
A senior dog may be slowing down, but that doesn't mean they can't still have some fun! Low-impact exercise, a special diet, puzzle toys, and regular veterinary checkups are all recommended for senior dogs. In addition, some older animals benefit from spending time with a younger and more energetic companion dog.
That's certainly the case with a 9-year-old Westie whose owner noticed the little terrier was sleeping much of the time and moping around, so she adopted a young Scottie dog to be his friend. A TikTok video captioned "Don't get me wrong the old man still sleeps a lot haha, but I just knew he needed a buddy 🥹❤️" showed the pair of pooches — clearly instant BFFs — happily running around the yard and frolicking together.
@sophieeilean don't get me wrong the old man still sleeps a lot haha, but I just knew he needed a buddy 🥹❤️ #westie #scottie #westiesarethebesties #scottishterrier #westhighlandterrier
"Now he's gotta little pep in his step 😭🥺💕," noted one viewer, and another commented, "Sometimes we just need our bestie. Makes sense! 🥰" One netizen shared, "We always do this for our dogs! Gives them a boost at the end and they love it 🥰."
Deciding whether to bring home a second dog
If you're trying to tell if your dog needs a companion, first consider how your pet behaves when encountering other dogs at the park or on the sidewalk. Does your pet seem playful and interested, or fearful and shy? A dog who acts happy and confident around other dogs may enjoy having a permanent companion.
Next, consider whether your pet shows signs of separation anxiety when left alone. Common signs include excessive vocalization, trembling, panting, house soiling, and destructive behavior such as chewing or scratching. A second dog may help to reduce separation anxiety. As one person commented on the TikTok video, "I'm convinced this is the key to longevity in older dogs," to which another netizen responded, "Definitely, if humans can't be alone neither should dogs."
If you're now wondering whether life really is easier with a second dog and contemplating bringing home a dog for your dog, then check out this pug puppy meeting an older sibling for the first time — it turns into adorable chaos — and this golden retriever who acts just like a puppy again after meeting a new little sister for some adorable inspiration.