Is It Too Late To Train My Dog

Is It Too Late To Train My Dog? (Find Out)

Want to adopt a young or an older dog but do not know whether you can train them or not? Then you have come to the right place.

This is a burning question for every dog owner "Can I still train my dog, even if they are not a puppy anymore?". So the good news is that you absolutely can!

Whether you own a few-month-old puppy or an older dog, you can train them effectively. And this is one of the things that are most important and very beneficial for both your dog and you.

In this article, I will address some of the most commonly asked questions that every dog owner might have.

So let's get started.

How to train an older dog in basic commands?

Now I am going to discuss how you can train your dog at a basic level. Training an older dog with basic commands can be a rewarding experience. This helps to build a great bond between you and your furry friend.

Before getting into the training, make sure your dog is in good health. Older dogs may have physical limitations or medical conditions that could affect their ability to learn or perform certain commands. I would suggest you consult the vet in the case of the older dog.

Tips that will help in your training session

For the training session, it is recommended to take your dog to a quiet, distraction-free space. as the dog feels less stressed in a quiet and less crowded space and performs better than usual. However, use the treats or toys your dog loves as a reward. This will help the dog to get trust in you and learn easily.

Make sure to keep the training sessions short. It can be around 10-15 minutes so that it won't get fatigued or frustrating.

Develop eye contact

First, develop eye contact with them. Hold the treat in your hand and try to move it until the dog sees you. Immediately point the figure towards the eyes. and provide them the treat. Make sure to repeat the process several times.

Teaching "Sit"

To train the dog how to sit, just hold the treat above your dog's head, so they have to look up.

As their head tilts back, gently push their rear down while saying "sit." When it sits, give them the treat and praise them. Make sure to repeat it several times so that it can be too of it. But do not go harsh on it. Always be gentle while training.

Teach "Stay"

Now, have your dog remain in the sitting position. Show them an open palm with your hand and say 'Stay.' Afterward, take a step backward while facing your dog. If your dog stays, even for a moment, reward and praise them. This is a significant achievement.

Repeat the process and gradually increase the distance and duration of the stay command as your dog becomes more comfortable.

Teaching "Come"

Use a long leash in a secure area for safety. Get down to your dog's level, call their name, and say "come" in a cheerful tone. Gently encourage them to come to you, and when they do, reward and praise them.

I suggest practicing 'come' regularly to reinforce the command. It's also important to create an environment that suits your dog.

Addressing Behavioral Challenges

If your dog has any behavioral issues, such as excessive barking or aggression, I would suggest seeking professional help from a dog trainer who specializes in working with dogs.

Conclusion

You can certainly train older dogs, whether they are teenagers or seniors. This is highly beneficial for both the dog and the owner. In this article, I have shared practical tips, such as creating a calm environment and employing positive reinforcement. However, seeking professional help is always recommended for challenging behaviors.