Training older dogs

Hi AvidReader,

In my opion you should start obedience training from Day 1. It doesn't have to be an official training session but your dog needs to learn rules through daily routine.

For example, she should learn to sit and wait for her meals, not to get on furniture, to come when called, etc. If there is a boundary, she should respect it. It is best to introduce house rules as soon as possible in order not to confuse your dog.

By using small treats, you can start teaching her to pay attention to you. If your dog has mastered this it will make it much easier when she actually goes to training classes.

My concern is that some classes won't accept her due to her aggression towards other dogs. I have seen a few dogs, especially German Shephards, in my dogs' training classes, that are aggressive/protective to other dogs and people. That is one of the breed temperaments. One of my dogs has also fear aggression to big dogs but I have been taking to many classes just to socialize with other dogs. However, I select classes very carefully so that there are no larger dogs and especially aggressive dogs. It will work backward if there are aggressive dogs. What my dog needs is building confidence and getting used to other friendly dogs. You might want to discuss this with your obedience class instructors.

I don't see anything wrong with taking her for walks. You can select the time that you don't see very many dogs. Walks are also a part of routine so it is better to make her familialize the neighborhood. She will also get a sense of "home" where she always comes back after each walk.

Older dogs can learn commands and tricks as quickly or sometimes quicker than puppies/young dogs. However, getting out of aggression will take longer than young dogs. Fortunately, you adopted your dog from your sister so you can ask her about the dog's history of the behavior. All my dogs came from shelters there is no way to find out what kind of experience they had before they came.

Good luck