How many times have you been told, "an old dog can't learn new tricks?" It's one of the more repeated statements among pet owners, but it's not nearly as truthful as you might think. While it's typical to associate age with the inability to obtain new information - this is not only associated with pets, but people as well - this couldn't be any further from reality. Here are a few things that you should know about this commonly repeated idea that, upon further inspection, doesn't hold water.
It's a common misconception that senior dogs cannot learn new abilities due to their age. Despite this, there is evidence that these older canines can actually be taught well. As a matter of fact, due to their maturity, they might actually be easier to teach. Seeing as how they tend to be more focused than puppies, it's not hard to see why. If you're unconvinced, reputable authorities on pet care like Assisi Animal health will tell you the same.
Much like training a puppy, taking a senior dog under your wing is no small feat. As a matter of fact, you'll have to go through the motions to ensure that your pet understands the tricks that he or she is being taught. One of the best tips is to use treats, offering praise beforehand. What this does is foster a sense of familiarity as far as the tricks are concerned. Before long, your pet will start to sit, beg, and the like without the need for a treat.
Perhaps the best way to make teaching tricks easier on yourself is by getting your dog the exercise they need. Keep in mind that older pets need to be active the most, seeing as how their joints and muscles can stiffen over time. Everything from walks around the block to games of catch can go a long way. The more physically able your dog is, the easier it'll be for you to teach tricks that they didn't know before.
As you can see, it's not outside of the realm of reality to teach your dog new tricks. In fact, by carrying out the right methods, you'll start to see that this is easier than it appears. However, you have to be willing to take the proper steps, not to mention consistently repeat them over the course of time. If you're devoted to this endeavor, it won't be long until your animal friend starts to sit, beg, and play without issue.
It's a common misconception that senior dogs cannot learn new abilities due to their age. Despite this, there is evidence that these older canines can actually be taught well. As a matter of fact, due to their maturity, they might actually be easier to teach. Seeing as how they tend to be more focused than puppies, it's not hard to see why. If you're unconvinced, reputable authorities on pet care like Assisi Animal health will tell you the same.
Much like training a puppy, taking a senior dog under your wing is no small feat. As a matter of fact, you'll have to go through the motions to ensure that your pet understands the tricks that he or she is being taught. One of the best tips is to use treats, offering praise beforehand. What this does is foster a sense of familiarity as far as the tricks are concerned. Before long, your pet will start to sit, beg, and the like without the need for a treat.
Perhaps the best way to make teaching tricks easier on yourself is by getting your dog the exercise they need. Keep in mind that older pets need to be active the most, seeing as how their joints and muscles can stiffen over time. Everything from walks around the block to games of catch can go a long way. The more physically able your dog is, the easier it'll be for you to teach tricks that they didn't know before.
As you can see, it's not outside of the realm of reality to teach your dog new tricks. In fact, by carrying out the right methods, you'll start to see that this is easier than it appears. However, you have to be willing to take the proper steps, not to mention consistently repeat them over the course of time. If you're devoted to this endeavor, it won't be long until your animal friend starts to sit, beg, and play without issue.
No comments :
Post a Comment