Senior Golden Retriever Trying to Befriend Younger Pups Dog Park Is Breaking Hearts

Does your dog enjoy going to the dog park? Many dogs look forward to going and being allowed to run and play with other dogs. Making new friends is a part of that process, but some dogs have a hard time doing it. Goldie is a senior Golden Retriever who has always been a favorite to dogs at the dog park because she is kind, friendly, and gentle. Her mom shared a video of her at the dog park on Monday, May 6th, and it'll melt your heart.

In the video, Goldie is trying to make friends with younger dogs at the park. They all say hello, but it doesn't seem that any of them want to play with her. They're chasing and batting a ball around, but don't include her. She seems a little sad about it!

This made me so sad! It was like she wanted to play but didn't know if she really fit in with the 'kids'. Goldie commenters love how gentle and friendly she is. One commenter pointed out, "Senior dogs are always the sweetest!" @alexis.beaumier shared, "Goldie girl I’ll be your friend!" @Kelly and Jeb added, "You’re such a good girl Goldie in every single way, us older ladies could tell these whipper snappers a thing or two!" I loved @Yuli Wolf's suggestion, "I feel like some parks should have senior time or have a group for oldies to make friends."

Related: Golden Retriever's Sad Reaction to Being Forced to Leave the Dog Park Is Going Viral

At What Age Is a Dog Considered a Senior Dog?

It's always fun to have a puppy because they're absolutely adorable and it's like having a toddler around to keep us entertained. However puppies grow up and become adult dogs, which I enjoy even more because they tend to chill out and aren't as much work. But there's something so special about a senior dog. They have this air and wisdom about them that is undeniable. They're special because you know that they won't be around forever, and you want to cherish the time that you know you have left, and that it won't be enough.

We all hear the term 'senior dog' a lot...but do you know how old that really is? Believe it or not, it depends on your pooch's weight. Dogs weighing 15 pounds or less become seniors at 11 years of age. Dogs weighing between 16 and 50 pounds are seniors at 9 years of age. Dogs weighing between 51 and 80 pounds are seniors at 8 years of age, and dogs weighing more than 80 pounds become seniors at 6 years of age. Basically, the more they weigh the shorter their lifespans.

As your dog ages you may notice your dog's muzzle will start turning grey. There may be some sensory decline and possible cognitive changes. However, these changes usually occur gradually, and many dogs are good at hiding signs of pain or vulnerability. The better you know your dog, the easier they are to spot. Routine wellness checks and bloodwork become important once they reach their senior years so that you can monitor for health-related issues that may be treatable. Keep an eye on them, they need you even more the older that they get.

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