Training An Older Dog Requires A Calmer And Relaxed Approach
Being a dog owner, you should be aware that dogs actually can communicate when they are in pain. However, there are also instances when the dog does not communicate that discomfort. Where the training of older dogs is a consideration, should the dog be experiencing discomfort and/or pain while laying down, then your best solution would be to forego giving the dog the "down" command. No clear cut rule exists regarding this issue so follow your instincts as best you can and rely on evaluation and intuition when appraising the situation.
Remember that obedience training for any dog, regardless of their age, should never cause them any mental or physical discomfort. That quality time that you want to spend (undisturbed) with your spouse can be enhanced by training your dog to obey the words "down and stay." It is more effective than the command to "sit and stay" since it lasts for a longer period of time. Having the dog learn this command means that they can stay in the house rather than locking them in the basement or another room.
Remaining calmer and relaxed while you are training your dog is paramount dog's are very sharp when it comes to sensing their owner's frustrations. Remember first and foremost that your dog will spot your weaknesses and if it becomes apparent that you are becoming emotional, they will disobey those commands as a means of taking advantage of your temperament. The need to continually assert your authority will occur if your dog is given any opportunity to take control of the situation, which ultimately will lead to difficulties and resentment during the training period.
When you act and speak, do so calmly and slowly, yet deliberately and rationally. If you maintain consistency in your actions, you'll be able to maximize the benefits of that training exercise. Adopting a calmer and more relaxed approach when training your dog will result in a rapid, successful endeavor regardless of the animal's age.
Not only do older dogs have the tendency to lose weight, they also lose those fatty components of their weight in the process. The critical factor that results is that the dog is less insulated and loses its temperature regulating abilities. For this reason alone, you should always avoid trying to conduct the training session in extremely hot or cold temperatures, as the variations can cause older dogs discomfort and health problems.
Constipation and incontinence also afflict older canines as well, so always make sure that you allow your dog that relief both before and after their training session. Should they relieve themselves during the session just be patient and ignore the issue, then resume the training. Another thing you want to avoid is feeding your dog immediately before or after you have completed the training session as it has the tendency of upsetting their digestive system. Additionally, the dog may view this as a form of bribery and start insisting on being fed prior to and after every session.
About the Author
Written by Jeff Nenadic from My-DogShop.com. Find the best designer dog beds available on the market including large beds, and luxury dog couches!
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