{"id":2465,"date":"2017-12-19T16:23:05","date_gmt":"2017-12-19T21:23:05","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.ovrs.com\/blog\/?p=2465"},"modified":"2017-12-19T16:23:05","modified_gmt":"2017-12-19T21:23:05","slug":"teach-an-old-dog-new-tricks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ovrs.com\/blog\/teach-an-old-dog-new-tricks\/","title":{"rendered":"Can You Teach An Old Dog New Tricks?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"We\u2019ve all heard the old adage, \u201cyou can\u2019t teach an old dog new tricks,\u201d but is it true?<\/p>\n

Older dogs (or senior dogs, if you will) may have some unique training needs, but we can dispel this myth right away! Senior dogs often love to learn new tricks and new games, and the team at Oakland Vet Referral Service<\/a> can guide you through some tips for teaching your older dog something new.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Old School<\/h3>\n

First, let\u2019s be clear: teaching your older dog<\/a> something new is not only possible, it is great for them, physically and mentally. Physical activity helps to keep your adult \/ senior dog\u2019s joints and muscles strong and limber, and can help to alleviate stiffness and pain.<\/p>\n

Likewise, the mental exercise that learning something new provides helps to keep your older dog interested and engaged in life and in you. So, teach and play away!<\/p>\n

Slow and Steady<\/h3>\n

Remember though, that your older dog may need to go a bit slower than he did as a young dog. Joint and muscle pain may make certain movements uncomfortable for them. So choose tricks and games that require less physical strength or movement. And remember that they may need more rests in between training sessions than a younger dog would.<\/p>\n

Sometimes older dogs have vision<\/a> or hearing problems that might impact their ability to learn as quickly as they once did, too. Some of these signs of aging may be treatable, so check with your family veterinarian to find out if you can make your senior dog more comfortable.<\/p>\n

Teaching An Old Dog New Tricks<\/h3>\n

Tricks don\u2019t need to be complicated. It\u2019s the learning and spending time together that\u2019s important. Keep it fun, low key, and keep training sessions short. Use lots of positive reinforcement, and make sure it\u2019s physically safe.<\/p>\n

Your older dog will love these opportunities to learn and play<\/a>. Once you see that playful spark in their eye, you know you\u2019ve hit the right note!<\/p>\n

Here are a few ideas to get you started.<\/p>\n