You CAN teach an old dog new tricks!
Come on, we don’t still believe that old line, right?! Thats right there along with “we walked uphill both ways in a snowstorm without shoes!” Of course, you can’t change your dogs personality, but at any age you can teach your pet how to react to certain situations that may seem threatening to them, and you can also teach your pet to adapt to a new routine. Ruby, my new adult pet, had a totally different routine with her old owner, compared to her new routine with me. Since I don’t really know what the key words for her to go potty were, or if her owner had her do any tricks before she got a treat, I just had to start anew. And guess what, she’s adapting! I have already gotten her used to sitting for a treat, and she already goes potty in a designated area in our back yard. Since she has never been in our backyard, I would say its pretty awesome that in less than a week she knows exactly where to go, and sits patiently to receive a treat after doing so (to reinforce that positive behavior that we are learning!) If your pet displays a problematic behavior that you just feel will never be fixed, think again! All you need is patience, and a trainer to teach you how to interact with your pet in such a way to illicit this new behavior you are seeking.
training tip of the day!
Are you considering getting a dog, or a puppy? First of all, I always recommend visiting the pound, there are wonderful animals there who need to be rescued into a loving family. Once you have your furry new addition, and you have chosen a healthy dry dog food (see my obesity page for more information regarding food tips), its time to consider training! Potty training can come easily to some pets, and can prove very difficult for others. I recommend starting to train as soon as possible, for both potty training and behavioral training. Positive reinforcement while training is what I recommend; training is not code for torturing your pet!! Also, training your pet to have healthy habits, such as tooth brushing, is great to start as early as possible. By doing this, your pet will be used to having their teeth brushed, and their mouth is free of plaque and gingivitis- and later in life you can avoid paying for a dental for your pet. Also, please PLEASE get your doggie toothpaste/toothbrush from a Veterinarian, or trained professional–people toothpaste is a big nono!!As a vet technician, i saw many cases of older pets with really bad plaque, and their health was weakened because they were constantly swallowing unhealthy bacteria from their own mouths. Had their owners started training with tooth brushing at an early age, or using healthy chews recommended by Veterinarians. I know it sounds odd, brushing your pets teeth, but try it! It can be a fun thing to do with your pet, and will establish a routine that will come in handy to you later in life.
