An adorable video of a 15-year-old yellow Labrador called Roxy becoming best friends with her new golden retriever puppy has gone viral on TikTok. In the video, Roxy can be seen being introduced to Olive the puppy, and the pair then go on to share a puppuccino, play and nap together. At the end of the video, a subtitle says that Olive “made her final year that much happier.”
One user commented, “It really can revitalize the senior dog to have a younger friend! What an adorable pair.”
There’s no guarantee that two animals will get along, and with a senior dog and a puppy it’s possible the new dog could cause stress and sadness to a senior dog. However, as in this case, if it does work out, it can bring joy and companionship to everyone.
Pet website Pet Place reports that “in some ways, getting a new puppy for an older dog makes sense. Puppies can provide senior dogs with companionship, help them stay active, keep their minds sharp, and even increase their lifespan. They can also act as welcome distractions for pets that are experiencing loneliness or boredom due to the loss of a canine companion or family member.” The site suggests that a puppy may even increase a senior dog’s life by reducing stress and anxiety and therefore heart rate, leading to fewer chances of heart problems, as well as increased physical activity and less obesity problems.
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There are some things to consider before you make the decision to get another dog. Spirit Dog Training offers these tips for introducing a younger dog to your senior dog:
- Do not get a puppy if you know that your older dog is reactive or aggressive toward other dogs
- Have sufficient time to provide separate exercise and training for both dogs
- Make time to take your older dog on one-on-one outings with you—without the puppy
- Pick a puppy whose energy level ideally matches the one of the older dog (low-energy breeds will be better than high-energy breeds)
- Separate and supervise—never allow the puppy to pester the older dog
- Create safe spaces where your older dog can relax and rest without the puppy around
User 8552398309265 commented, “This made me smile and brought tears to my eyes. Thanks for sharing.”
User Missy said, “Got a puppy when my older dog was 11. She lived until 16 (past her [breed’s] lifespan) I think my younger dog kept her going.”
User Emily wrote, “They make them into big puppy’s [sic] again. I love it so much.”
Newsweek has reached out for comment.
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