Dog is eleven, not sure if to get a puppy

[ScaredOfCows]

Our much loved family dog is 11, his breed's expected lifespan is 12 - 14 years. He doesn't really mix with other dogs, has a sniff and a tail wag when out etc, but not one of those that will run around chasing with other dogs.

Several people have said that getting a puppy/young dog gave their older dog a 'new lease of life'. We know that when our dog eventually goes we would have another dog, so have wondered if we should get one now. On the one hand it would be brilliant if our dog enjoyed having a young dog around, but it would be awful if it distressed or upset him.

Any advice?

It could work, or it could be upsetting for him - I know people who have experienced both situations when adding a younger dog to their already older one.

In your shoes I'd contact reputable local rescues and explain the situation. They may be prepared to do a foster-to-permanent situation with a pup or younger dog, so you can be sure your existing dog is comfortable before committing.

I know nothing about dogs, but I'm not sure I'd like the new person moving in before I'd moved on.

I have a 9 year old lab and a 6 month old pup. First few days he ignored him and we were careful to allow old dog space (pup is in crate at night and we would let lab go to another room if he had had enough puppy attention). They quickly became the best of friends and old dog will initiate play, which like yours he had stopped doing with other dogs.

On walks it is great as the pup looks to old dog for guidance and doesn't roam too far from me.

I have a 14 year old Sheltie and 1 yr old golden retriever. I definitely think he has livened the Sheltie up although he has been amorous towards her even though she is spayed! BTW he is getting neutered this week. I am a bit undecided as to whether I would do the same again, like I say, he has livened things up a bit for her and she likes dog company but I would probably wait if I could go back as I don't think it was quite the retirement she had in mind and I don't think they have bonded because of the age gap

Our family dog died last year, aged 14. For at least a year before she died, she was sort of like on old lady, she like to rest and be warm (had nothing wrong with her, just got very old for that breed). We know someone with a younger dog (same breed) and when they visited, the older dog was pleased to see her, but just had nothing like her stamina and really wanted her to go back to her own home after a short time. I think it is nicer for the older dog to have a peaceful old age, unless the dog is used to having other younger dogs around.

The grief when a dog dies is terrible and honestly it is easier if you have another one left. But - that's from your perspective, not the dogs and I think I would put the dog first in this situation.

Thanks for your insights. It's a really hard decision to make, the last thing we would want would be to upset our old dog. Will think about it some more, but I think that these answers are what we expected, and on balance we would probably be better to not get a puppy.