Adult Dog Training – How it’s Done

You may have heard the often repeated cliché about not being able to teach old dogs new tricks. A debatable question really because though the fact remains that it is harder to train an adult dog than it is a puppy, but it can be done! To make it easier simply think of people continuing their education all through life from cradle to grave. Dogs are not all that different you know.

Why would you need to train an older dog?

Not everyone brings home a brand new puppy that can be trained from scratch. People often adopt a dog from rescue shelters or adoption kennels; it is also possible you may have taken in a family member’s dog.

The following points ought to reassure you about the relative ease with which you can train your older dog.

• Older dogs have already learned the meaning of ‘no’ and a few other commands;
• Older dogs are less exuberant and a lot calmer than a puppy, which means the attention span
  is longer;
• Older dogs are familiar with authority and will be more readily accepting of your leadership
  position.

The very first step in your adult dog-training program will be to housetrain the dog. The advantage here is the adult dog has better bladder and bowel control. When you bring a new dog home, it is going to be totally confused with its new family and surroundings. Before bringing the dog into the house for the very first time, it may be best to take it to the spot you have designated as the doggie toilet. Talk to it gently using a soft loving tone and keep praising the dog. Adult dogs are familiar with kind tones and high praise.

Obedience training is step two of your adult dog-training program. It is common knowledge that all dogs need obedience training. Your dog has to know and understand basic commands that include sit, stay, come, heel, and of course no. There are obedience training schools but conducting the training yourself means you get to use the time spent with your dog to build the bond between you. It is important to establish the relationship based on trust and love.

Adult Dog Training methods :

The old school used choke collars and leashes to control dog behavior; dogs do not appreciate being treated this way and will only end up fearing you. Hardly the result you want now is it!

The reward system works wonders with people, why not with dogs?  Try to use more praise than actual food treats to reward your dog. As the dog starts listening to your commands you can slowly decrease the treats.

Keep the sessions short and make sure you are both consistent and persistent in your training efforts. All dogs simply love being praised by their owners, so of course your dog will do its best to listen to you and be obedient.

Man’s association with dogs dates back centuries and there is a bond between the two seldom seen in other animals. All you need for successful adult dog training is to give commands in a firm voice without being harsh. Of course every effort even the smallest bit should receive unconditional praise.