How To Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

They say you can't teach an old dog new tricks — but who exactly are “they,” and have they met your dog? This age-old saying has been around for centuries, however, the idea that older dogs are more stuck in their ways is more a myth than a reality.

Whether your pup is a gray-muzzled retiree or just hitting middle age with a touch of sass, there’s still plenty of room in that furry noggin for some new skills. So, before you write off your dog as untrainable, let’s dig into the real story.

Can you teach old dogs new tricks?

The short answer is, yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks. Dogs are naturally curious and ready to grasp new experiences. They are always observing the world around them and respond to smells, sights and sounds.

And while young dogs tend to be more active and curious, adult dogs might be easier to train as they are less hyper, not as easily distracted, and can focus for longer periods of time. With this increased ability to concentrate, older dogs may actually learn new routines more easily. There are several things to consider, however, when beginning a training routine for an older dog.

Set realistic expectations

Training should always take into account your dog’s physical limitations. Your dog is not going to suddenly join a circus act. If your golden retriever is twelve years old with creaky joints, don’t expect her to leap through flaming hoops. Keep goals achievable. Sit, stay, roll over (slowly) and maybe a high-five for fun.

Motivation still matters

Younger dogs might jump at treats like it’s their job (which it basically is), but older dogs? You better bring out the gourmet stuff. We're talking peanut butter, chicken bites, and those fancy freeze-dried salmon cubes that smell like low tide but apparently taste like heaven.

Older dogs have been around. They know you’ve got better snacks in the fridge and they’re negotiating now. Think of them as the grizzled veterans of the dog world. They've seen some things. They're not doing tricks for free.

Use their wisdom

Older dogs often already understand some basic commands, social cues, and the general idea that doing what the human wants leads to good things (treats, belly rubs, car rides). You can use this to your advantage. Build on what they already know.

If your dog already knows how to “sit,” it’s a great segue for teaching “down” or “stay.” Just remember to introduce new commands gradually with small steps and offer plenty of rewards and praise. You and your dog are a team.

Keep sessions short but sweet

Training sessions with older dogs are best kept short and positive. Five to ten minutes is often enough. After all, attention spans fade with age — for dogs and humans. Training for too long can cause training fatigue, yes, that’s a real thing! If your dog is losing interest, not responding to cues or begins sniffing or yawning, it’s best to take a break. Training should never be rushed.

Be patient. Sometimes they’ll get it right away. Sometimes they’ll just look at you like you’ve completely lost your mind. Remember: they’ve had years to perfect the “you’re embarrassing yourself” look. Don’t take it personally.

Embrace the humor

Let’s face it, training an older dog comes with its share of comedy. There will be moments when your dog performs the wrong trick with total confidence. You’ll say “paw,” and they’ll spin in a circle, you’ll say “sit” and they’ll lie down.

They may wander off in the middle of a session to bark at a stick. Or forget what they were doing halfway through and just lie down like, “Was this a nap drill? Because I am ready.” Laugh with them, not at them. Okay, sometimes at them. But mostly with them.

The bond grows stronger

Ultimately, training your older dog is not just about teaching new behaviors. It’s about deepening your relationship. It’s a way to spend quality time together, keep their minds sharp, and keep their tails wagging.

Whether it’s learning to shake hands, ring a bell, or gently balance a cookie on their nose before launching it into their mouth, the experience will bring joy to both of you.

Celebrate success

Above all, training should be fun and positive for you and your furry friend. Positive reinforcement will set your pup up for success in the future. Focus on having fun when you are training your dog and celebrate the wins.

Yes, you can

So yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks. And they might just teach you a few along the way — like how to slow down, be patient, enjoy small victories, and never, ever underestimate the power of bacon!

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Photo courtesy of Pixabay