subject: Training Older Dog | How To Train Elder Dog | Training Senior Dog [print this page] Dogs continue learning all through their lives, and it is actually easier to train an older dog than a puppy. The main reason is because an older dog is far calmer, and less energetic and excitable as compared to a puppy. There is no reason why you cannot train an older dog. In fact, older dogs are more intelligent than puppies, and you must go the gentle way while training. You must regularly give your pet an opportunity to explore new surroundings and meet unfamiliar people and dogs as they grow older, otherwise, they become less accepting of their environment.
If your dog learns basic obedience, it allows both of you to enjoy better communication and share a harmonious relationship. If your older dog has not learned these basics, stop worrying and train it. In general, you can teach your older dog new tricks and behavior. However, you must not forget that older dogs have a physical limitation, which may, at times result in a dog being unable do a trick that you want it to do. They get tired easily and lose interest faster than younger dogs. You need to handle the lesson for your old four-legged companion with patience. Gain proper knowledge and use the right approach.
Here are a few things that you must remember when you are training an older dog:
*You must give your older dog enough time to adjust to new situations. Employ classical conditioning to build positive associations with the physical and social environment.
*Your dog considers you and your household to be its pack/family. You have to become the leader of your pack to successfully train your dog. Be firm and consistent with your commands. It is true that old dogs do not come with clean slates; so you need to be patient to make them obey your foreign commands.
*You must never yell at or hit your dog, no matter how frustrating the training gets. If you do so, it will make it hard for the dog to concentrate on what you want it to learn.
*Reinforcement is the key to training an older dog. Habits develop through repetition and consistency. So, do not give up on your dog's routine until it develops, even if you feel it has mastered all the tricks you taught him.
*You must make your dog feel that whatever you say was your dog's idea in the first place. For instance, if he comes closer to you, say, "come", and then reward him with a small treat. Eventually, he will follow the command and will come to you when you say, "come".
*You must keep the training fun and positive so that your older dog picks up good obedience behavior quickly. You must keep your training sessions short and make them lively and happy. A happy dog will be a far better trained one than an unhappy dog.
*You must choose one consistent way to train your older dog. Otherwise, it will leave your dog confused and frustrated. In addition, keep your rewards consistent for all activities. This will help the dog relate to the command, reward, and situation and help it pick things up faster.
