B pet smart – can we teach an old dog new tricks?

When does a dog become too old to learn something new?

The answer is NEVER! 

Not only is your old dog capable of learning, it is crucial for his mind and body to continue to learn. Whether you have a puppy or a geriatric dog, it is important to keep them stimulated.  Dogs, like people, need to use their brains in order to keep sharp.

Sometimes I think our old dogs get depressed and senile simply because we are not providing them with enough stimulation.

Like puppies, an older dog may have a shorter attention span and take a little longer to learn a new command, but it is never too late for your dog to learn.

As our dogs get old, we fall into a rut.  We begin to exercise them less because they can’t keep up and their bodies are arthritic and creaky.  Instead of getting up early and getting ready for a walk, our dogs are happy sleeping in and wandering about the house.

Veterinary behaviorist Dr. Lore Haug says “A lot of old dogs get what I call, “shrinking world” syndrome. Their owners get into a rut with them; they start walking the dog less, they don’t train the dog or teach him tricks.  The dog doesn’t get as much stimulation and enrichment-maybe they stop taking the dog to the dog park-and there is a significant decline in mental and physical challenges.

Imagine an 80 year old person who never gets out, reads, or really has anything to do but sit or sleep all day.  Humans that are the most active physically and mentally age the best.  Dogs that are physically and mentally stimulated also age with dignity and grace.

How You Can Help!

• Remember no dog is ever too old to learn!  If your dog’s learning seems a little slower, understand that his attention span may be a little slower.  Get a book on teaching your dog tricks and get started!
• Swimming is one of the best exercises for aging bodies and joints.  If your dog likes to swim, frequent the water and let your dog get some exercise.
• Even if your dog can’t walk very far; take him for a daily walk to stimulate his mind and keep his muscles stimulated.  Muscles atrophy if not used regularly, so help your dog stay as strong as possible for as long as possible.
• Use mentally stimulating toys.  I love putting my senior dog’s food in a Buster Cube and let him wiggle and wobble the toy around to get his food out at night.   This “play” is a lot more stimulating than eating from a sterile bowl.
• Old dogs also like to utilize their noses with games.  Senior dogs often lose some hearing, and their keen sight, but their noses are often still quite capable of finding hidden toys and treats.
  
• It doesn’t matter how old your dog is 4 months, 1 year, 3 years, 8 years, or 15 years old he still needs exercise and mental stimulation! 

The older he gets the better he gets (like a fine wine) and the more he needs your love and compassion to help him (his body and his mind) age gracefully!

Rejeneril will be the best investment you will ever make for the health of your aging pet – GUARANTEED!  Check it out at link below:

http://myultimatepet.com/

Taken from “the dog training secret”