Obedience Training for Older Dogs

There's this idea floating around that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. Absolute nonsense, that is. Your older dog is just as capable of learning as any puppy, they just go about it differently. Whether you've adopted a rescue who never learned the basics or your own dog has picked up some dodgy habits over the years, it's never too late to start fresh.

Training an older dog isn't about forcing them into submission. It's about building understanding and trust. The beauty of older dogs is they've got patience that puppies don't have. They can focus for longer stretches and aren't distracted by every leaf blowing past.

Why Bother Training an Older Dog?

Training isn't punishment, it's enrichment. Your older dog's mind needs exercise just as much as their body does. When you stop challenging them mentally, they get bored and frustrated, which often leads to problematic behaviours.

Training also keeps your dog safer. A reliable recall could save their life if they slip their lead near a busy road. Basic commands make vet visits less stressful for everyone involved. And walks are far more enjoyable when your dog isn't dragging you down the street like a kite in a gale.

There's also the health angle. Older dogs can develop arthritis and joint problems. Behaviours like pulling on the lead or jumping up only make things worse. Teaching them to walk calmly beside you protects their aging joints.

How to Start Training

Pick a quiet spot without distractions. Five to ten minutes per session works best. Train during ad breaks or while the kettle boils.

What Motivates Your Dog?

• Bits of cheese or cooked chicken
• Quick game with their favourite toy
• Praise and ear scratches
• Whatever gets their tail wagging

Timing matters. Mark the exact moment they get it right so they understand what earned the reward. Proper gear helps too. A comfortable collar or harness makes training more pleasant and keeps them focused. Nylon or leather both work grand depending on your routine.

Work with Their Limits

Older dogs have physical limits. Stiff hips make sitting uncomfortable. Dodgy hearing means they miss commands. That's grand. Just adapt.

If sitting hurts, skip it. Focus on what they can do comfortably. For hearing loss, use hand signals. Dogs read body language better than words anyway.

Rescue dogs often carry baggage. They've been punished before and fear trying new things. Give them patience and easy wins first.

The Basic Four Commands

Sit, Stay, Come and Heel

• Start with one command at a time
• Practice in different locations
• Use the same word every time
• Keep it consistent across the household

For recall, start indoors with zero distractions. Call their name, say "come," reward generously when they do. Never call them for unpleasant things like nail trimming.

Loose lead walking takes patience. When they pull, stop. Stand still until the lead goes slack, then continue. Dogs learn that pulling gets them nowhere. A proper slip lead works well for strong-willed dogs when used correctly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't use different words for the same command. Stick to one word and get everyone using it.

Never punish a dog for not understanding. Break tasks into smaller steps. Frustration makes dogs anxious. Anxious dogs can't learn.

Don't only train in one spot. Your dog might sit perfectly in the kitchen but ignore you outside. Practice everywhere with different distractions, building up gradually from quiet spaces to busier ones.

Keeping It Positive

Training should be fun for both of you. If either of you is getting stressed, take a break.

End every session on a positive note, even if it means asking for something really simple you know your dog can do. You want them to finish feeling successful and happy. That positive association makes them eager for the next training session.

Here at Trendy Paws, we make training your older dog easier with comfortable, gentle and well-fitting gear trusted by dog owners across Ireland.