Yes-- Training Older Dogs Is Worth It

Many people believe that when a dog moves pasthim a treat.
the stage of being a puppy that it is a little to late to*Just One Word Commands
train him. Stay away from these types of peopleUse commands with one word when training pups or
because they just do not know what they aredogs of any age. Your pet will understand things
talking about. Even though training a puppy might bemuch easier with words like; Stay, Come,Down or Sit
somewhat easier, training an older dog is certainly inthan he will, “Stay right here” or “I said
your future.come here”
Start Training Today*The First Time
In most instances you will have a little knowledgeTry to use your basic commands only one time
about the dog going into the training process. In theduring training, and once they understand the
instance that you have gotten your pet from acommand expect them to do it the first time every
shelter or he just showed up at the house, you willtime. Begging is one thing that you should not do.
not know much about his background. Therefore, ifOne important note. Let’s say you call your dog,
you know very little of your dogs past you will needhe chooses not to come,"Do Not" repeat the
to approach the training with a kind spirit.command, just walk over and get him,if he chooses
Below you will find a few tips to help with your olderto come to you, give him some treats and pets. The
dog and a few of these tips will prove useful inproblem with using a command more than once is
training a pup.that when you say it 3 or 4 times, the first
*The Re-learning Processcommand does not mean anything in their mind and
Be aware, your new older pet is sure to havethey have plenty of time to keep doing what they
acquired a few unwanted behavior issues during hisare doing.
journey in life. Besides having to learn the right way*Good Behavior Means Rewards
to handle things, your dog is going to have toHere is one thing to be conscious of, rewarding your
un-learn quite a few others. Just remember, up todog with treats and praise for a job well done will
this stage in his life, he does not know right fromtake you where you want to go much faster than
wrong.punishing him for the unacceptable behavior.
Here Is Some More Training AdviceSo, should you dog sit when you tell him to or
Be ready to catch him right as he starts to do thebehaves the way you like, love on him for a little bit
wrong thing.and maybe give him a little treat.
*The Proper VoicePositive reinforcement is one of the best tools that
A tool with a lot of impact will be a nice firm voice asyou can use to train an older dog or puppy.
you begin the teaching process, not yelling, just aDo not let the thought even enter your mind that
firm tone. In order for your dog to fully believe thatyou will not be able to teach your dog anything. If
you are in control of the situation always avoidyou use the proper training methods, the older dog
sounding upset or angry. Any time he doesthat you are living with now will be behaving the right
something good, smother him with praise and giveway before you know it.