How to Train an Older Dog

With animal shelters overwhelmed with not only puppies and young dogs, but also populated with older canines, many owners are adopting more mature dogs. Can you teach old dogs new tricks? Most often, you can, but you need to have patience and time.

First, have your new dog tire out by exercising him outdoors. Even if you have a fenced-in yard, it's still better to keep him (or her) on a leash when you first bring him home. Being outdoors also allows your dog to go potty before he enters his crate.

Although some people may think sticking a dog in a crate is mean, it's actually good for not only you and your house, but for the dog as well. A crate is a safe haven where your dog will grow to be secure, knowing this is his "room." Realize dogs are den creatures that naturally gravitate to crate-like areas in nature.

• Prepare the crate - Get the crate ready for your new dog before bringing him home. Make it inviting by including a soft pillow, along with a washable pad and towel.

• Don't force him inside - Add a small treat to entice him into his new room. As he enters, lavish him with lots of praise saying simple phrases such as, "Good boy! Nice Crate." This way he associates words and/or sayings with entering his crate.

• Don't slam the door - When he wanders inside to not only grab the treat, but to also explore his new territory, leave the door open, allowing him to come out as he wishes.

• Be positive - The most important factor in crate training is attitude. Always be positive, avoiding any negativity associated with the crate. If you've adopted an older dog, there's a chance he may have undergone much negativity in his old home, so be sure to speak gently.

• Repeat the procedure - Continue the procedure for a few more times (about 5) before stopping.

• Offer another treat - Then, lure him into his crate, using another treat, repeating the process. However, this time you close the door. But don't leave his side immediately. If your older dog has suffered rejection or abuse, he needs to know you're his friend and not going to abandon him. Stay close to him for about half an hour before leaving.

• Add a new toy - It helps to set a new toy inside the crate. This way he'll be diverted, checking out something new. Then close the door. Expect tears and whimpering, but just reassure him you're still close by. By inserting a caring finger through the crate bars, you give him the security he needs to know he's not going to be deserted. Be sure to use a loving tone of voice.

It's much simpler to teach an older dog what to do as opposed to what NOT to do. Therefore, stress going potty outside rather than dwelling on not doing it indoors.

• Don't confuse him - Keep the command simple. Simply say, "Go potty", using the same phrase. (Some owners say, "Hurry up.")

• No food or water after 7 PM

• Keep his crate clean, reducing the odds of him returning to the smell of his urine or feces, to mess up, again.
• Install an indoor doggie door.
  

Finally, have a positive attitude regarding all aspects of his training. Stressing what's done right (rather than what's NOT done correctly) works for pets as well as humans.

Originally published on Suite 101.