Age is not a matter to give dog training. If you’ve recently adopted an adult or senior dog, you might be surprised at how quickly they can focus and learn new things. Let’s explore why adult dogs can be easier to train than puppies, go over some basic training techniques, and share tips to keep up your dog’s progress.
Why it is easier to do dog training for adult dogs?
You might find that adult dogs are often easier to train than puppies. As they mature, they can keep their focus on whatever they do better than puppies. They have a longer attention span. It makes it easier to learn and remember new commands. You may train them to various commands like come, sit, and go that enable you to keep your furry friend under your control. Unlike puppies, they can easily adapt to new routines. You may housetrain, or potty train your dog. You coerce your doggy to use the same spot while you do potty training. Thus, it is easier to train adult dogs than cuddly puppies. They have a better bladder than puppies. As puppies are still growing, they still lack control over urination. Yet adult dogs can control their passes. Thus, you need not give them many potty breaks while dog training.
Training Basics for Dog Training
Teaching basic commands to your adult dog, such as sit, down, and come, can be a rewarding experience. Even though adult dogs are more obedient than puppies, training them may sometimes annoy you. You can use treats and praise to train them in a way. Small treats can be very effective. Use them to lure your dog into the correct position. Always give quick praise before offering the treat so your dog learns to work for praise alone.
For example, if you train your dog’s ‘sit’ command, hold a treat near your dog’s nose, then move your hand up. As your dog’s head follows the treat, their bottom will lower into a sitting position. Praise them and give them the treat immediately. Yet, in some instances, treats don’t motivate your dog. So, gently place them in the desired position and praise them. Repeat this several times until they understand. It usually takes three to four weeks of consistent training for a new behavior to become a habit. Thus, you may aim for several short training sessions each day for about a month when teaching new behaviors.
Preventing Behavioral Problems
It is noteworthy that behavioral problems in dogs are escapable if you train your dog. For example, there are issues like destructive chewing and digging. Thus, you may ensure your dog gets enough exercise and has appropriate chew toys. A large yard is great, but it doesn’t guarantee your dog is getting enough exercise. Encouraging him for long walks or games of fetch until your dog is truly tired can help prevent boredom and restlessness. Also, you may provide toys that challenge your dog’s mind, such as puzzle feeders or interactive toys.
Maintaining Progress during dog training
Keeping up your dog’s training progress is important. If they behave good, keep rewarding your dog for good behavior. You may use positive reinforcement. It encourages them to continue behaving well. Sometimes your dog’s environment might cause them to behave inappropriately. So, you have to manage its environment, to keep them away from inappropriate behaviors. Especially when they see tempting items such as toys, you have to keep them out of reach. Not all the time they need toys; you may give toys in the necessary training phase.
If you encounter any problems, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. Most behavioral issues can be easily resolved once your dog has settled into their new home and understands your expectations. Sometimes, problems may stem from medical issues or lack of early socialization. Your vet can rule out physical causes and refer you to an experienced trainer or behaviorist if needed.
Remember, giving dog training to an adult dog takes patience and consistency, but the results are worth it. Enjoy the journey of building a strong bond with your new furry friend. Check out “Tips for Training an Adult Dog” for more information.
