I’m sure you’ve heard before that in human families, birth order often gets a lot of attention and certain characteristics are assigned to each sibling based on which position they were born in. Especially if you’ve read by latest post on children birth orders, you know it’s a well-known fact that the order in which kids are born supposedly plays a big role in their personalities. The oldest is the responsible and independent one, the middle child is the sweet peacekeeper, and the youngest is the wild child. I’ve known many families with multiple siblings and this theory tends to be true, at least from my perspective and outside opinion. But as it turns out, this theoretical hierarchy doesn’t just exist only for humans. I’ve noticed that it’s alive and well with my furballs too! Specifically with my three German Shepherds, the dynamics of this species is hilariously accurate and similar to people. You’d be amazed at how much my furry companions fit into the stereotypical birth order traits you’d expect from human siblings. Here are some of the quirky parallels between human birth order traits and my doggos.
The Oldest: My Independent, Anxious Overachiever
Nickname: The Responsible Queen
Stereotypical Traits:
Always alert and in charge (especially when it comes to everything being hers)
Independent and obedient (but also just a little bossy)
Full of anxiety (because the garbage truck is clearly a bringer of doom)
The first to offer affection when I’m feeling down
My oldest girl has the typical firstborn complex down to a science. She’s always been my go-to for tricks, eager to please and show off her skills. She’s the one who seems to have it all together—independent, tries her hardest to always be obedient, and the go-to when I need a reliable cuddle buddy. She has this deeply ingrained sense of responsibility, almost like she’s carrying the weight of the world on her furry little shoulders. She watches over the other two dogs, making sure they’re in line and tending to them with her motherly instincts. She’s extremely great with other pets, including the kitties, any visitors we get, and she loves kids. She’s usually the first to alert me when something’s off. However, with all that responsibility also comes anxiety, at least in her case. Lloud noises? Forget it. Fireworks, the garbage truck, or even if she hears the neighbors chatting in their yard sends her into a frenzy of worry. Poor thing sometimes even has accidents on the floor from her nerves. But in every other way, she’s rock solid—obedient, reliable, so attentive to my emotions. She’ll always come to rescue me with her comforting presence if she hears me crying from a sad movie scene.
She also still clings to her “only child” days. She’s convinced all the food, water (even from the toilet, yuck!), and attention in the house are rightfully hers. “Firstborn privilege” as I’m sure she’d call it, if she could talk. When it comes to the number of treats she wants, her favorite number is clearly “all” (haha!). And if there’s a sliver of my affection that could be shared with her younger siblings, she’s quick to remind me that she was here first. But can you blame her? She’s my responsible, loving firstborn, and sometimes she just needs to be in charge.
The Middle Child: My Sweet, Gentle Mediator
Nickname: The Perfect Gentleman
Stereotypical Traits:
Sweet and affectionate (those big brown eyes!)
The peacekeeper (he lets the girls have their treats first, like the gentleman he is)
Dramatic (but only when the Amazon delivery guy dares to ring the doorbell)
Happy-go-lucky (always at my feet, content with a solo walk and belly rubs)
On to my middle child—my boy and the sweetest of the bunch. If there’s a perfect “good boy,” it’s him. He’s everything a German Shepherd is supposed to be: protective yet calm, a master of walking on the leash, and he absolutely loves pleasing his people with his obiedience. If I take him for a solo walk, you can practically see the joy radiating off him. Baths? No problem. Cuddling on the couch? You bet. Fetch? Anytime! “Give my your paw”? Absolutely (and with a smile every time!).
Despite being sandwiched between two more demanding siblings (“his girls” as we call them), he’s the happy mediator. He’s the peacekeeper, the one who tries to bring harmony to the chaos of the household, and the one who gladly steps aside in true gentlemanly form. He waits patiently for his treats, lets the girls have everything first (sometimes whether he wants to or not, haha), and never demands anything. It’s as if he knows that being a good boy is his job and he’s just so good at it. Even when the squirrel invasion begins or the doorbell rings, his bark is all drama—because, like any true middle child, he knows how to get your attention when needed. I think this comes from not wanting to be overlooked too often due to his typical quiet and peaceful nature. But mostly, he’s just content to sit at my feet while watching to tv or cooking in the kitchen whenever he has the chance, enjoying life to the fullest with his gentle heart and loving spirit. My middle baby is the ultimate love bug, always ready to offer a comforting paw or a lick on the face when things get too crazy. He’s the one who knows how to melt your heart with just one look with his big brown eyes and he’s always just the most gentle and sweet boy.
The Youngest: My Wild, Chaotic Gremlin
Nickname: The Mischief Maker
Stereotypical Traits:
Wild and sneaky (if it’s missing, she definitely stole it)
Mischief is her middle name (stealing cat food and hoarding toys like a pro)
Rules? What rules? (They don’t apply to her, obviously)
Sweet and charming (those puppy-dog eyes can get her out of anything)
And then, there’s my youngest—a girl who thrives on chaos and has turned “baby of the family” into an art form. She’s a rule-breaker, a food-stealer, and a toy-hoarder, all wrapped up in one mischievous little ball of chaotic and ever energetic fur. She’s wild, full of energy, has an endless supply of mischief, and always keeps me on my toes. If there’s trouble in the house, you can bet she’s at the center of it. I’ve lost count of how many times she’s knocked things off the counter, gotten into the cat’s food and the garbage can, or demanded attention with a bark that could (and does) wake the neighbors, but how can you stay mad when she looks at you with that innocent face?
She’s the type who thinks the world revolves around her, and honestly, with that level of charm, she’s not entirely wrong. But she’s also very territorial with her toys and doesn’t feel the need to share them with her siblings, especially when playing fetch. She causes plenty of mayhem, inside the house and when she’s blasting through the yard like a she’s got a jetpack strapped to her back, but she also makes sure to balance it out with her unending sweetness. One minute she’s knocking things off the table with that ever wagging tail, and the next she’s curling up beside me like the adorable, gremlin she is. She knows how to melt my heart and she’s definitely mastered the art of getting away with more than she should—because, let’s be real, she’s the baby and the rules just don’t apply to her.
The Conclusion: They’re Just Like Kids—But With Fur
At the end of the day, my three German Shepherds are my family, each with their own quirky personalities that mirror human birth order stereotypes in the funniest ways. The bossy, anxious oldest, the sweet, calm middle child, and the wild, rule-bending youngest—they’re a perfect trio, keeping life interesting and my heart full.
And while they may not always get along perfectly (the food bowl debates are real), one thing is for sure: I wouldn’t change a single thing about any of them. Whether they’re mediating a toy dispute, guarding the house from imaginary threats, or sneaking the cats’ food, they’re all good dogs in their own perfectly imperfect ways.
When we think about adopting a pet, our minds often go straight to the idea of bringing home a playful kitten or an energetic puppy. The appeal is undeniable: they’re cute, full of life, and give us the excitement and hope of many years together. But what if we paused for a moment and considered the pets that are often overlooked? The senior dogs and cats who have lived a life full of experiences, but now find themselves waiting, perhaps for the last time, for a home where they can spend their remaining days in comfort and loved. They may have been a longtime pet to an elderly person who passed and didn’t have any family able to take on a new pet. Now this pet who has only known one home and one family their entire life is suddenly in a shelter and sad. Don’t they deserve to spend their last days being pampered and shown just as much love as they’ve shown throughout their life? If you’re on the fence, here are some reasons you might consider adopting or fostering an older pet.
The Reward of Compassion
Adopting or fostering a senior pet isn’t just about giving them a home; it’s about giving them a dignified life filled with love and care. It’s true that they might not have the youthful energy of a puppy or kitten, but what they lack in agility, they make up for in gratitude. These pets have likely experienced the ups and downs of life and, in many cases, have faced abandonment or loss. By opening your home to a senior pet, you’re not just adopting an animal; you’re becoming the hero in their story. Possibly the last or even only hero they’ve ever known.
Imagine the joy of watching a senior dog’s eyes light up as they realize they’re safe, loved, and finally in their fur-ever home. Or the contentment of a senior cat curling up in your lap, purring with a sense of peace that they haven’t felt in a long time. These moments are priceless, and they remind us that love knows no age.
The Benefits for You
Taking in a senior pet can be a profoundly rewarding experience for you as well. Senior pets are often more relaxed and require less training, making them a perfect fit for those who may not have the time or energy to keep up with a younger animal. They’re usually past the destructive phase, meaning your shoes and furniture are likely safe from harm. Instead, you get to enjoy the companionship of a pet who’s content to be by your side, sharing quiet moments and gentle walks.
Another benefit is the sense of fulfillment you’ll feel knowing you’ve made a real difference in a precious animal’s life. Senior pets often face a bleak future in shelters, with many being overlooked simply because of their age and a few gray whiskers. By choosing to adopt or foster a senior pet, you’re providing them with a second chance—a chance to experience love, care, and happiness once more.
The Challenge and the Reward
Of course, adopting a senior pet comes with its challenges. They may need more frequent vet visits, special food, or medication. They might move a little slower and require some extra help getting around. And yes, it can be hard to think about the fact that your time together may be shorter than it would be with a younger pet.
But here’s the thing: every pet, regardless of age, requires commitment. Training a new puppy or kitten is work, too, and there’s no guarantee that their lives will be long. What matters is the quality of the time you spend together, not the quantity. By adopting an older furball, you’re making their last chapter potentially their best one yet. You’re giving them a life filled with love, where they can feel safe, spoiled, and cared for in their final days.
The Impact on the Pet
For the pet, the impact of your kindness is immeasurable. Senior pets have so much love left to give, and all they want is someone to share it with. They might not be the first choice for many adopters, but they deserve just as much love and attention as any other animal. By adopting or fostering a senior furbaby, you’re showing them that they’re still valued, that their life matters, and that they’re not alone.
Imagine the peace they might feel knowing they have a warm bed, a full belly, and a loving human to spend time with. It’s not just about the physical comfort, but about the emotional connection and the reassurance that they’re loved and cared for.
My Final Thoughts
Adopting or fostering a senior pet is one of the most compassionate choices you can make. Yes, it might require a little extra work, and yes, it might be hard to say goodbye when the time comes. But the rewards far outweigh the challenges. You’ll be giving an animal the gift of love and dignity in their final days, and in return, you’ll receive a kind of love and gratitude that’s beyond words. It will of course break your heart when they pass, but wouldn’t it break your heart more knowing they’d otherwise pass away alone in a kennel without being surrounded by their favorite things, favorite people, and familiar smells?
Next time you think about bringing a new pet into your life, consider the senior dogs and cats who are waiting for someone to give them a chance. It could make all the difference in the world to them—and to you.
With love and hope that you’ll consider one of these sweet angels, as always,
Ladies, if you’re a proud mom of a German Shepherd (or three, like me), you know that life with these magnificent furballs is an adventure filled with love, laughter, and a fair share of chaos. If you’re considering joining the GSD mom club, here’s a playful peek into what you’re in for.
Personal Space? What’s That?
Forget about personal space. Going to the bathroom alone? A distant memory. My three GSDs have made it their mission to accompany me everywhere. I mean, who needs privacy when you’ve got an audience of loyal pups watching your every move? I guess they assume that since I technically “watch” them while they potty, they should return the favor.
Kitchen Shadows
Cooking and doing dishes? Picture this: three large, eager bodies circling your feet in a tiny crowded kitchen, hoping for a fallen crumb or a generous handout. They are your little shadows, always present, always hungry, and always underfoot. Meal prep becomes a dance of avoiding paws and tails. And watch where you step or you’re bound to land in a drool pile.
TV Time Companions
When it’s time to relax and watch TV, expect to have at least one GSD at your feet. They’re the best foot warmers, albeit large and sometimes heavy. And don’t even think about trying to move without alerting them; they’ll be up and ready to follow you wherever you go.
Nose Print Art
Windows and glass doors are their canvases. They create modern nose print art that I like to call “GSD masterpieces.” Cleaning it off is a constant battle, but it’s also a cute reminder of their presence.
The Joy of Sharing
Sharing food? Get used to it. They know the sound of the treat bag and the fridge door. Try sneaking a piece of cheese without them knowing – I dare you. It’s like they have a sixth sense for snacks and always demand a cheese tax.
Redecorating Pros
My GSDs have a knack for redecorating. Furniture gets moved, things get knocked over by their enthusiastic tails, items you know you left somewhere magically go missing. It’s like living with furry interior designers who believe in constant change. My decor tastes are never good enough on their own so thank goodness I have 3 of these little experts to help where I fall short.
Kleptomaniac Tendencies
Stealing socks, raiding the garbage, and snatching toys – it’s all part of the fun. I’ve found socks in the most unusual places and had to rescue countless items from their jaws. And let’s not forget the possessiveness over non-toys like that sandwich shop paper bag that had a hidden pickle. Yes, a pickle. Growling and hoarding all over a pickle.
Fetch Fanatics
Playing fetch is serious business. They would chase a ball or a frisbee until they drop from exhaustion, literally risking heat stroke for the sake of the game. Obsessed is an understatement.
Water Lovers
Water is life. Puddles, the river, sprinklers – they love it all. Bath time is less of a chore and more of a party. Be prepared for wet dog shakes and the ensuing mess. We always bathe outside because they like to involve me in being showered as well.
Shedding Champions
German Shedders? Absolutely. They shed for six months twice a year. Your vacuum cleaner will become your best friend, and lint rollers are a necessity. Embrace the fur, because it’s everywhere.
And Shredding Champions
German Shredders? Also yes! Leave a random piece of mail, newspaper, or magazine laying around and no worries, your pup will gladly
Super Smart
Their intelligence is both a blessing and a curse. They know so many commands and words, sometimes even strange ones like “ice” or “move.” It’s impressive and occasionally eerie how much they understand.
The GSD Experience
I’ve had seven German Shepherds over my lifetime, and while I’m no expert, I can tell you that being a GSD mom is a unique and rewarding experience. They’re loyal, loving, and full of personality. Life with them is never dull, and the joy they bring far outweighs the occasional chaos.
So, if you’re thinking about becoming a GSD mom, prepare for an adventure filled with love, laughter, and a lot of fur. Welcome to the club – it’s a wild, wonderful ride!
It’s with an extremely heavy heart that I share that our sweet little shop cat, Jewels, passed away today. I’m so grateful that I was able to say goodbye to her yesterday evening and that we were blessed with an amazing 16 years with her. But as one of my longest friendships (both pet and people), it’s really hard to imagine going to work every day without her. She started out as a scrappy street cat who was adopted to help keep the field mice away from the office (we’re located in the country in between two corn fields). She was fierce and feisty, earning her a nickname of “Crazy”. However, in her older age, she calmed down quite a bit and became a talkative and snuggly lovebug who loved to eat and throw up hairballs. Last year when I was going through my divorce, she would sit with me after everyone else left for the day and simply be there for me, purring away as I cried and poured my heart out to her. She was the perfect little friend and always there when I needed her. They say pets are sometimes better than people because the only time they’ll ever hurt us is when it’s time to say goodbye. I believe that’s true. The office isn’t going to be the same without her. I’m going to miss her dearly.
Rest well my sweet angel. “I’ll see you tomorrow”.
Losing a pet can be an incredibly painful experience. These companions often become cherished members of our families and become such important parts of our home (or work) lives. They provide unconditional love, affection, and joy. When they pass on, it can leave an emptiness in our hearts and a profound sense of loss. Coping with the grief of losing a pet is a deeply personal journey, but there are ways to navigate through this difficult time and find healing. I’ve actually lost 4 pets in total in the last 4 years, including our “Crazy” girl, Jewels, along with my German Shepherds, Vada, Lukas, and Logan. It definitely doesn’t get easier no matter how many times you have to experience it, but there are things we can do to help us get through the pain a little bit at a time.
Allow Yourself Time to Grieve:
The loss of a pet is a significant event and it’s important to acknowledge and validate your feelings of grief. Give yourself permission to mourn and express your emotions in whatever way feels right for you. Whether it’s crying, talking to friends and family, looking through old photos and videos of your pet, or just spending time alone, allow yourself the space to grieve without judgment. There’s also no time limit on grief and it’s a process that’s different for everyone. Have grace and patience with yourself as you walk through it and ask your loved ones to support you in those same ways as well.
Celebrate Your Pet’s Life:
Instead of focusing solely on the loss, celebrate the life and memories you shared with your pet. Create a scrapbook or photo album filled with happy moments, funny pictures, and cherished memories like their “gotcha day” or birthdays. Reflecting on the joy your pet brought into your life can help ease the pain of their absence. Try to feel comfort in the fact that even though their life was too short, they spent it with you and you showed them unconditional love until the very end. They were happy and had a good life because you were a part of it.
Reach Out for Support:
During this difficult time, don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or support groups who understand the unique bond between humans and their pets. Talking to others who have experienced similar loss can provide comfort and reassurance that you’re not alone in your grief.
Create a Memorial:
Honoring your pet’s memory can be a meaningful way to cope with their loss. Planting a tree or flower in their honor, creating a memorial plaque, or making a donation to an animal charity in their name are all thoughtful ways to pay tribute to your beloved companion. If you decide to cremate your pet, maybe pick out an urn that speaks to their personality and create a special place in your home to display it, along with some items like their favorite toy, collar or leash, a candle, and some photos.
Maintain Routine and Self-Care:
While grieving, it’s important to maintain a sense of normalcy in your daily life as much as possible. As impossible as it seems to go on since they were such a huge part of your day-to-day, try to stick to your regular routines, whether it’s walking your dog’s usual route or keeping up with feeding schedules for other pets. Additionally, prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough rest to support your emotional well-being during this mentally draining time.
Consider Seeking Professional Help:
If you find that your grief is overwhelming and interfering with your ability to function, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor experienced in pet loss can provide support and guidance as you walk through your grief journey.
Give Yourself Time to Heal:
Healing from the loss of a pet is a process that takes time. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself the space to heal at your own pace. Remember that it’s okay to feel a range of emotions and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. It can be a rollercoaster, with good days then not so good days, and that’s a perfectly normal part of the process. You will never fully forget, but with time it can get easier to deal with the pain and start to regain your daily life.
Consider a New Pet (When You’re Ready):
While no pet can ever replace the one you lost, opening your heart to a new animal companion can bring joy and comfort into your life. When you feel ready, consider adopting a new pet from a shelter or rescue organization. The love and companionship of a new pet can help ease the pain of your loss and bring renewed purpose and happiness into your life. I can personally attest to having other pets in my home right after losing my pets helped me tremendously. When I came home crying after losing my girl Vada, I sat on my couch and just balled. My cat came and sat with me like he knew I was hurting and just wanted to comfort me. The love and bond between us and our pets is amazing and sometimes having another one to lean on during or after a difficult time can really be beneficial.
Losing a pet is a truly heartbreaking experience, but it’s also a testament to the deep connection and love we share with our animal babies. By allowing yourself to grieve, seeking support from others, and honoring your pet’s memory, you can find healing and comfort in the midst of loss. While your pet may no longer be physically with you, the love and memories you shared will live on in your heart forever and those are the things that made your pet’s life amazing.
Even though she didn’t live with me, I saw Jewels every workday for 16 years. Honestly, there’s a good chance I’ve spent more time with her than with my own furballs, especially since she’s the longest living pet I’ve ever had. I’m going to miss her so much, but am so grateful for all the time and love we shared together. If you’re also grieving the loss of a pet, hang in there, fellow furball parents and friends. I see you and it will get better, eventually. Be patient with yourself and remember that it’s okay to feel whatever it is you need to feel for as long as you need to feel it.
