Can You Teach an Old Dog New Tricks?

You’ve probably heard the saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” countless times. Every time people use this cliché, it often has nothing to do with a dog. They use it to emphasize how difficult it is for people set in their ways to pick up new habits.

However, it’s easy for such widely regurgitated statements to become the “truth” in one corner of your mind, even if it isn’t the reality. So, can you teach an old dog new tricks?

The Dan Gentile Dog Training Center, the premier choice for canine training in NJ, will discuss the details in this post.

Teaching an Old Dog New Tricks: Separating Fact From Fiction

If you’ve just welcomed a senior dog into your home and you’re searching, “Can you teach an old dog new tricks?” to know if you can teach him some of the inside tricks you’ve shared with your previous canine buddies, the answer is a resounding yes.

Most people believe puppies will pick up new tricks faster because they are curious and have higher energy levels.

However, senior dogs are no slouches when it comes to picking up new tricks, either. The loss of agility often leads to higher concentration levels in these dogs. Therefore, they can pick up new routines just as easily as younger dogs.

Top Tips to Keep in Mind When Teaching Old Dogs New Tricks

Here are some tips you should work with when teaching your old dog new tricks:

Stay Patient

Due to the significant drop-off in energy levels, older dogs may take a little longer to get going when you teach them new tricks. Therefore, you may need a little extra patience during the training process.

This is especially true if your dog has hearing or visual impairments. You may need to explore alternate modes of communication when training your dog in this situation.

Keep Training Sessions Short

Older dogs may have higher concentration levels, but they may only hold it for short periods. Keep your training sessions short to ensure your old canine buddy won’t get frustrated, bored, or tired.

Drooping ears and yawning are the top signs you should watch out for.

Choose the Right Tricks

Taking care of your dog involves keeping them safe and avoiding situations likely to cause them harm. Avoid any tricks that may be too challenging for your dog’s physical condition. Stick to less strenuous tricks if you want your old dog to learn quickly.

Embrace Positive Reinforcement

As with puppies, positive reinforcement can also work with an old dog learning new tricks. Praise your dog and reward them with treats.

Teach Your Old Dog New Tricks with Expert Guidance

Can you teach an old dog new tricks? Lots of evidence shows that you can! At The Dan Gentile Dog Training Center, we’ve helped numerous dog owners establish a new relationship with their old canine buddies. We can provide dog training treats, tricks and commands to practice, and more.

Are you ready to get started? Call The Dan Gentile Dog Training Center in New Jersey today at (732) 938-5040 to schedule a consultation.