Six Reasons Why Empty Nesters and Dogs Are a Great Fit!

4 hours ago

Diane Morrow-Kondos,

When the last child leaves home, many people feel an emotional impact, often referred to as “empty nest syndrome.” The house that was once busy, noisy, and full of life suddenly seems too quiet. Although some eagerly anticipate an easier, peaceful life, others feel the loss more deeply. Some people feel sadness, anxiety, loss of control, and loss of purpose when they are no longer in the active phase of parenting. Our kids will always need us in some ways, but after they leave home, it’s only natural that they begin having more independence. What can fill the void left when the kids leave home? A dog or two will do the trick!

This week was National Puppy Day, so it’s a good time to discuss why empty nesters and dogs might be a good fit.

1. Dogs provide companionship.

You’re never alone when you have a dog. In some ways, they are like a toddler. They follow you around, cuddle up with you, want to share your bed, and eat your food. You have to brush their hair and clean up their poop just like you would with a toddler. They even want to eat food off the floor like a two-year-old, but in this case, I’d let them (unless it’s food that is poisonous to dogs). You may never have to sweep again.

2. Dogs provide purpose.

When you had kids at home, you provided three meals a day and took them to the pediatrician. With kids gone, a dog will require some of the same attention and financial commitment. In addition to providing food and water, they require exercise, grooming, and veterinary care. Having a dog will keep you on a schedule and ensure you get exercise every day. Before you adopt a dog, check the energy level and maintenance requirements of their breed and make sure you can keep up. If you’re a couch potato and determined to stay that way, or if you have health issues, you probably don’t want to adopt a high-energy dog like an Australian Shepherd or Cattle Dog. An energy-level mismatch will frustrate both humans and dogs.

3. Dogs increase social interaction.

When our kids were growing up, many of our friends were their friends’ parents, and we became involved with their school and extracurricular activities. Having a dog will fill some of those gaps. Taking the dog on walks is a way to meet other people who can’t resist stopping to ask if they can pet your dog or at least give a friendly smile as you go by. Taking dog obedience classes will provide opportunities to interact with other dog lovers, as will a trip to a dog park. Dogs are conversational icebreakers.

4. A dog will encourage your children to visit.

Of course, your kids miss you and want to come visit, but if you adopt a dog, they will be even more excited to visit. Once they see that the dog has taken their place in your affection, they may come home more often to make sure the dog doesn’t replace them. A little sibling rivalry can be a good thing, right? Joking aside, having a dog makes a home more fun, and your adult children will want to be a part of that. Your kids will be relieved you’re not moping about being an empty nester.

5. A dog will love you unconditionally.

A dog doesn’t care if you have wrinkles, a postmenopausal belly, clothes that are hopelessly out of fashion, or if you haven’t dusted the furniture in a month. You can tell your dog your deepest secrets, and they will never tell. Dogs are generally loyal, loving, and non-judgmental.

6. A dog will give you bragging rights.

I expected to look at a lot of grandbaby pictures as I entered this later stage of life, but I am positive I have looked at significantly more dog pictures. Apparently, people love to show off their dogs and dote on them endlessly. It’s fine with me. I’ll look at your dog pictures if you look at my grandchild’s pictures. Better yet, fill social media with pictures of your perfectly clever and adorable dog. The world can use more cuteness and positivity!

There are a few caveats before you decide to acquire a dog. Make sure you have the financial ability to provide food, grooming, and veterinary bills. Like children, dogs can be expensive. Also, like children, dogs are a long-term commitment. Canine life spans vary, but do your research before you get a dog. If you’re older, think about adopting a senior dog. Have a plan for what would happen to the dog if you die first. Just as you had made decisions as to who would raise your children if you died while they were minors, make sure your pets will be cared for after your death. If you have young grandchildren, make sure you adopt a dog who is comfortable with children. Teach your grandchildren to be gentle with the dog and don’t leave them unsupervised with the dog until you are confident both the dog and the grandchild treat each other kindly.

In addition to my two grandchildren, I also have three granddogs. Several times a week, we take family walks with six adults, two kids on scooters, and all three granddogs. The dogs are a vital part of our family. At the moment, I don’t have my own dog, but I do have a cat. My husband knows that if he dies before me, a big, hairy Great Pyrenees will take his place. Dogs and empty nesters are a good fit!