Training Tips for Senior Dogs

🐾 Training Tips for Senior Dogs

🧠 1. Mental stimulation is more important than physical activity

As dogs age, their reflexes slow down, but their minds are still active — and need regular stimulation:

• Scent-based games: treat searches, "find it under the cup"

• Puzzle toys (simple ones)• Refreshing familiar tricks

• Slow-paced tricks: “shake,” “spin,” “touch with nose”

📌 Bonus: Mental workouts reduce anxiety and help prevent cognitive decline.

🐾 2. Gentle and short physical exercise

• Mobility is important but avoid overexertion

:• Slow walks (10–15 minutes a few times a day)

• Simple moves: “sit–stand,” gentle stretches

• Low obstacles, crawling, soft balance pads

⚠️ Avoid: jumping, sudden turns, slippery floors

👂 3. Adjust for sensory changes

• If hearing is impaired — switch to hand signals and visual cues

• If vision is reduced — rely on voice and scent-based commands

⏱ 4. Keep sessions short and consistent

1. No longer than 5–10 minutes at a time

2. Better to train 2–3 times a day than one long session

3. Always end on a positive note — no exhaustion

   
   

💬 5. Gentle, patient motivation — no punishment

• Use a soft voice, treats, and calm praise

• Don’t rush or get frustrated: senior dogs may react more slowly

• Maintain trust: never force a dog that shows discomfort

📋 Sample 10-minute senior dog training session

Stage	Example	Time
Warm-up	Slow walk around the room	2 minutes
Mental game	Treat search	3 minutes
Trick/command	“Sit,” “paw” (familiar tricks)	2–3 minutes
Wind down	Gentle petting, rest on mat	2 minutes

✅ Key principles:

• Slow. Short. Frequent.

• No overload.

• More sniffing and thinking — less running.

• Keep it joyful and confidence-boosting.