Last Updated on December 17, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford
Educating many animals, especially dogs, at an older age could be challenging. While the common saying that “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is common, many analysts and researchers have begged to differ.
This old adage was traced to animal husbandry in 1523, spoken by Fitzherbert. This particular feature for dogs in general, where some of these animal’s trainers have argued puppies assimilate better than their aged ones, is highly debatable.
This will become our focus, as we will discuss how possible it is to train old canines, considering their genetic information and age.
Age Influence?
There is reliable information that age could be a prime influencer in how puppies and adult dogs learn new skills. Yet, it is impossible to completely rule out these old dogs from learning new tricks.
There have been many studies carried out which show that dogs of about 10 years in age took more than twice repetition to learn compared to age 6 months to a year. The reason for the hard teaching is not far-fetched.
As they grow older, they get used to happenings around their environment and absorb it to protect themselves and their owners. It has even become the subject of many essay examples in the university.
For a student, it is common to comment on such debates, which may require nature vs nurture essay examples to inspire ideas for their own essays. People who adopt a dog may also find some traits unhealthy and want to change them.
When it comes to logic, adults perform way better. These animals seemed to get the idea rather quickly for reasoning tasks. This showed that getting to learn new tricks could be simple for them. Yet, they stubbornly refuse to unlearn old tricks or what they already know.
As far as training retainment goes, there are no age influences. This suggests that while it may be challenging to teach the aged canine, it becomes easier for them to remember and show off their education skills once called upon. This research has been carried out by many animal rescue officers and confirmed by other animal handlers.
 However, because it feels like a way of protection, it will be challenging to make him see the logic.
Breeds could influence Learning Curve suggesting Genetic Influence
Many animal shelter sites have discovered that certain dog breeds do better in learning new tricks than others. It is possible to teach new tricks, but the following breeds learn faster than others:
- Poodle
- Labrador retrievers
- Golden retrievers
- German shepherd
- Shetland sheepdog
- Collie
- Pembroke welsh, etc.
University students usually undertake such projects to ascertain if there is a genetic reason for the breed selection. Several college professors can also confirm that while brain training is lifelong, the breeds’ influence could be because of their genetic material.
Tips to Help Teach your Old Dog
Several expert tips help train adult animals. Animal control studies show that these ideas could help instill new logic for new ideas.
- Take the time to know your dog well.
- Build a close relationship of trust and friendship. It may take some time, so patience is essential.
- Know and respect the limits of your dog
- Train your aged dogs in short sessions.
- Continue to show positive assertions for your dog.
- Treat your dog to quality food for every task done, and always compliment him. As you progress, reduce the ration of the treats while increasing the praising.
- Start out by doing small treats. It is easy for your dog to get confused when given too many instructions.
- Animal control says it could take 3-4 weeks to thoroughly teach an adult dog a new trick.
Here’s How to Know when your Adult Animal is Exhausted
Age and genetic framework play out strongly when teaching your new four-legged creature. It is important to remember that you’re no longer dealing with a puppy, so it is important to take much time to notice signs your dog is worn out. These signs are important:
- Drooping ears
- Sniffing the ground
- Boredom
- Yawning
- Licking a lot
Conclusion
For an adult dog, working out the modality of teaching a new trick could be challenging. However, knowing that age and genetic material are influential is essential. College students have also been heavily involved with research to understand why.