Tips On Training An Older Dog
It is not impossible to teach your old dog new tricks but much effort is needed to do that. Training older dog needs enough guts and practice. Older dogs are already through with that stage in their lives where they are shaped and influenced on how they would behave or act. Older dogs, same with humans, have established their behavior already and this means a more difficult training. As a trainer or owner, you may have to show more dominance in teaching an older canine compared with a pup because the older dog has already learned a few things during the past and they can manipulate the retraining done. Some older dogs understand things better so things could run along more smoothly. It would be a little more difficult to change the bad habits. Staying patient and sticking with it will pay off down the road. This will be rewarding not only to you but to the dog as well.
Prior to the training, many other things should be considered. Older canines and pups are quite different. Be aware that some dogs may have some health issues. Also, you should remember the physical abilities of an older dog compared to the young ones.
Make sure your dog is healthy. Because of old age, some dogs might have some health problems. They may be a little heavy and out of shape and the training could be affected. Consulting a veterinarian is best when you have doubts. Some of these older dogs may not be able to hear as well as they once could and their joints may be stiff. You are not dealing with a puppy here. Some dogs may experience some pain when you teach them to jump or roll over. If he does not respond to your commands, try to observe his physical condition. It may be too painful to jump or roll over that’s why he is not doing it.
Another dilemma you might encounter is your dog’s hearing ability. Some older canines don’t hear quite as well so some of the training may be affected. Using certain signals may help if you run into this problem. By doing this, even if his hearing is going he will still be able to understand. Of course, a lot of patience is needed to train dogs with this problem.
Understand that older dogs are not as active as puppies. Their physical abilities may be affected by their age. There are limitations to what an older dog can do, and owners should be reminded of that during the training.
Put effort in training your older dog to make it more enjoyable for the two of you.
Training techniques could be the same with techniques used with puppies but the level of effort put into it is different. Invest in some training tools and join training classes for the dog. This will improve the bond between the two of you. Praises and rewards should be used in training older dog, just like in any other dog training program. Show enthusiasim and support and stay away from force. Do not become frustrated or get mad if your canine has difficulty in accomplishing certain things. Soon, the result you wanted will be achieved and all the hard work you and your dog poured into the training program will pay off.
