Tips for training an older dog

Adopting a senior dog and training them is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Now that you’re on the first step of this journey, it’s essential to learn how to house-train your older dog. 

Training an older dog is different from training a puppy. An older pet may have formed a few habits they need to unlearn. They may also have had experiences that contribute to their negative behaviours. But with enough time and patience, you and your pet will reap the rewards of successful training.   

Can you train an old dog?

Yes, it’s possible to train an older dog. Contrary to the saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” training old dogs can sometimes be easier than training a puppy. Dogs are lifelong learners, eager to please, and love attention regardless of their age or training background. Keeping these traits in mind, you can train your senior dog in no time. Patience and consistency are key to successfully training your older dog. 

Benefits of training a senior dog

If you’re on the fence about whether you should invest the time and energy in training your older pet, here’s why you should: 

• Training your older dog helps them adjust to your lifestyle and the life you want with them. This can include regular dog park visits, car rides, and grooming appointments. 

• Training keeps a dog active, helping them stay healthy and happy. 

• Consistent training also keeps your senior dog’s mind sharp. Think of training as their own version of your grandpa’s crossword puzzle or your mom’s many arts & crafts projects! 

• Lastly, training your senior dog keeps them engaged with you and your family. And what pet or pet owner would say no to that?  

Potty training an older dog

When you first bring your older dog home, the first thing you’ll probably want to teach them is where to go potty. Some important things to consider when toilet training your senior dog are: 

• Picking a potty spot for your pet 

• Building a routine for your dog 

• Identifying your senior pet’s signals for when they need to “go”

• Rewarding your pet every time they eliminate on-cue 

Keep in mind that your senior dog may already have built-in potty habits – or a total lack thereof. A dog’s trainability depends on its previous environment, so be patient and consistent. The good news is that older dogs generally have more bladder control than puppies. This may make it easier for your pet to form good potty habits. 

You can refer to our dog potty training guide to learn more about the specific steps and techniques in house training your dog. 

How to teach an old dog new tricks

Long hikes or strenuous work may not be feasible for older dogs, but you can still teach them other tricks to keep them sharp. Before starting, make sure that the trick is well-suited for your dog’s physical abilities. Senior dogs may not have the vision, bone strength, or even hearing ability of a younger dog. 

Here are some basic commands you and your older dog can work on:
 

Trick 1: Touch  

“Touch” is a simple trick that’s a great foundation for more complex tasks later on. You can teach your older dog to shake hands, turn on light switches, and more! 
 

Trick 2: Names of objects  

Exercise your older dog’s brain power by teaching the names of different objects around the house. You can start with the following items: 

• Toy 

• Blanket 

• Slippers 

• Leash
   

Trick 3: “Fetch your leash”  

This clever trick builds on the “Touch” command. Once your senior dog knows what “Leash” means, you can ask them to fetch their leash before you head out! This trick helps you save time in the morning before you take your pet for a walk – and it makes them extra excited about heading out. 

If you sometimes have a dog walker over at your place, you can even tell them about your pet’s helpful trick. 

Tips for training your older dog

It’s helpful to remember that, like older humans, your senior dog may need some extra consideration. Here are some tips that can help you and your pet enjoy your training sessions: 

• Don’t expect lightning-fast responses. Older dogs may respond slowly to cues and move slower due to joint problems. 

• Use a mix of verbal cues and hand signals, especially if your dog can’t see or hear very well. 

• Speak louder if necessary. 

• Be generous with treats, pets, and cuddles. 

• Keep training sessions short and fun!  

Training your senior dog to stay home alone

Start by encouraging your older dog to stay in their crate or confined area as you move away from them. Don’t get emotional – your dog could associate these actions with impending separation. Instead, reward your dog for behaving properly. Increase the time and distance gradually. Eventually, you should be able to leave your pet alone, in another room, for up to an hour. 

If you feel uncomfortable with the idea of your senior pet sitting alone at home, you can hire a local dog sitter to keep your dog company, train them, or give them their necessary medication while you’re out.

Training an older dog can be stress-free

Still no success in training your senior dog? It might be time to hire a dog trainer. With Airtasker, you can easily find pet care experts who can help you and your pet adjust to your new life together. Happy training!