How to Train an Older Dog

Whoever came up with the phrase, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” must not have tried—or didn’t try hard enough. There’s no reason why you can’t train an adult or senior dog to do anything a puppy can do. Granted, they are more set in their ways and you have to be a step ahead. But in some ways it might even be easier. Older dogs have better attention spans to focus in on learning. All it takes is some patience and the following helpful tips.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Patience
• Consistency
• A lot of love

1. Teach your older dog commands by making him believe the idea was his in the first place. For instance, if he goes to sit, say, “sit” and then reward him with a treat. Eventually he will sit on command. Repeat this with any command you would like him to learn.
2. Condition your older dog to go outside rather than not go inside when potty training him. It is easier to teach an older dog “to do something” rather than “not do something.”
   Select a spot outside where you would like him to do his “business” and bring him there each time. Consistency is the key. It also helps if you don’t clean the spot completely.
3. Use the same phrase for going outside each time. For instance, “Wanna go out?” or “Go potty?”
4. Clean up traces of urine or feces from indoor accidents with an odor eliminator. Enzyme cleaners, such as Nature's Miracle are best for removing odors. Without those scents around, your dog won’t be encouraged to repeat the deed.
5. Lessen your older dog’s food and water intake before he goes to sleep to prevent accidents. And don’t reprimand him if he tries to wake you. Let him out or take him for a walk.
6. Leave the crate open throughout the day and toss treats in occasionally to get your older dog used to it if he needs to be crate trained. You can also feed him inside the crate. Make it comfortable with a bed or blanket that can’t be destroyed and his favorite toy or chew. Your dog will soon consider the crate his den and want to nap there. Use short crating sessions in the beginning and gradually lengthen the time. But keep in mind older dogs have weaker bladders and shouldn’t be crated longer than they can hold it in.

Tips & Warnings

• Older dogs are more intelligent than puppies, so if using training toys, pick out ones that are more challenging and stimulating.
• Check humane organizations and shelters in your area. Many offer affordable dog training courses at a nominal cost.
• Obedience classes are just as useful for training older dogs as younger dogs and a chance to spend time and bond with your dog. However, choose ones that avoid harsher training methods. Gentle is the way to go with mature dogs.