How to Train a Senior Dog: A Complete Guide to Teaching Old Dogs New Tricks

Key Takeaways

• Senior dogs (7+ years) can absolutely learn new commands and behaviours with proper training techniques.

• Older dogs often have longer attention spans and better self-control than puppies, making training potentially easier.

• Positive reinforcement, patience, and consistency are crucial for successful senior dog training.

• Consider your dog’s physical limitations and past experiences when designing a training program.

• Regular training sessions provide mental stimulation and strengthen the bond between you and your senior dog.

• This article includes practical training tips specifically for senior dogs.s

The phrase “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is one of the most persistent myths in pet ownership. In reality, senior dogs often make some of the best students, bringing patience, focus, and life experience that younger dogs simply haven’t developed yet. Whether you’ve recently adopted an older pet or want to improve your long-time companion’s behaviour, this comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to train a senior dog successfully.

Training doesn’t stop when dogs age - in fact, it becomes even more important for maintaining cognitive function, strengthening your bond, and ensuring safety as your pet enters their golden years. With the right approach, your senior dog can learn basic commands, break bad habits, and even master fun new tricks that will enrich both your lives.

Can You Really Train a Senior Dog?

Scientific research consistently shows that dogs remain capable learners throughout their entire life span. The old adage about not being able to teach an old dog new tricks is simply false - most dogs retain their ability to learn well into their senior years, typically defined as 7+ years depending on breed size.

In many ways, older dogs actually have advantages over puppies when it comes to training. Adult dogs generally have longer attention spans, more self-control, and better focus during training sessions. They’re not dealing with the hyperactivity and distractibility that make puppy training challenging. Additionally, senior dogs have already developed their personalities and preferences, which means you can tailor training to what motivates your individual pet.

The key difference is that as dogs age, they may learn at a slower pace and require more patience from their pet owners. Physical limitations, past experiences, and cognitive changes can all impact the training process. However, these factors don’t prevent learning - they simply require adaptations to your training approach. Before you start training, it's important to assess your dog's current skills and knowledge so you can build on what they already know, especially when you train an older dog.

Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new neural connections, continues throughout a dog’s life. This means your senior dog’s brain is still capable of creating new pathways for learning, even if it takes a bit more time and repetition than it would for younger dogs. Regular mental stimulation through training actually helps maintain cognitive function and may slow age-related mental decline. With patience and the right approach, you can successfully train an older dog at any stage of life.

Benefits of Training Your Senior Dog

Training provides numerous benefits that become even more valuable as your dog ages. Mental stimulation is perhaps the most important advantage - challenging your senior dog’s mind through learning new commands and practising existing skills helps keep their cognitive abilities sharp. Just like humans benefit from puzzles and learning new skills, dogs need mental exercise to maintain brain health throughout their lives.

The bonding aspect of training becomes especially meaningful with senior dogs. Spending quality time together in positive training sessions strengthens your relationship and creates new shared experiences. For recently adopted senior dogs, training sessions provide structured opportunities to build trust and establish your role as a caring, consistent leader.

Training also addresses practical safety concerns that become more important with age. A reliable recall command can prevent your older dog from getting into dangerous situations, while a solid “stay” can protect them from hazards they might not notice due to declining senses. House training refreshers can address any accidents that may occur due to weakened bladder control or confusion.

From a behavioural standpoint, training helps address unwanted behaviour that may have developed over years of inconsistent boundaries. Rewarding good behaviour is essential, as positive reinforcement encourages your dog to repeat desirable actions and strengthens your bond. Senior dogs who jump on people, beg at the table, or pull on leash can absolutely learn better manners with patient, consistent work. The structure and routine that come with regular training sessions often appeal to older pets who appreciate predictability in their daily lives.

Physical benefits shouldn’t be overlooked either. While training sessions should be adapted to your dog’s capabilities, the movement involved in responding to commands provides gentle exercise that helps maintain mobility and coordination. Even simple activities like walking to their designated place or standing for a few seconds during training contribute to their overall physical health.

For everything you need to know about dog nutrition and mobility, check out our blog: Best Dog Food For Joint Health.

Assessing Your Senior Dog’s Current Skills

Before starting any training program, spend time evaluating what your senior dog already knows and identifying areas that need improvement. This assessment will help you create a personalised training plan that builds on existing knowledge while addressing specific challenges.

Start by testing basic commands in a quiet environment. See how reliably your dog responds to “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down.” Note whether they respond immediately, need multiple repetitions, or seem confused by certain cues. If your dog consistently responds to some commands but not others, this gives you a clear starting point for refresher training.

Evaluate your dog’s house training reliability by tracking their bathroom habits for a few days. Note any accidents and try to identify patterns - do they occur at certain times of day, in specific locations, or under particular circumstances? This information will help you determine whether issues are behavioural, medical, or simply due to routine changes. Assessing your senior dog's toilet training is also important, as older dogs may need a refresher on where and when to eliminate, and establishing consistent routines can help prevent accidents.

Observe your dog’s behaviour during daily activities like meals, walks, and interactions with other people or animals. Does your senior dog pull on leash, jump on visitors, beg for food, or show any signs of anxiety or aggression? Make a list of specific behaviours you’d like to address through training.

Consider scheduling a veterinary checkup before beginning intensive training, especially if you notice sudden changes in behaviour or house training reliability. Medical issues like arthritis, cognitive decline, or sensory loss can significantly impact training success. Your vet can identify any physical limitations that should influence your training approach and rule out medical causes for behavioural changes.

Create a simple skills checklist to track your dog’s current abilities:

Basic Obedience:

• Responds to name consistently

• Sits on command

• Stays in position when asked

• Comes when called

• Walks on leash without excessive pulling

• Knows “down” position

House Training:

• Goes to the door when needing outside

• Eliminates in appropriate outdoor areas

• Holds bladder for reasonable periods

• Shows no signs of marking indoors

Behavioural Issues:

• Jumping on people

• Excessive barking

• Begging during meals

• Resource guarding

• Separation anxiety signs

If you're curious how to boost your dog’s emotional well-being, have a look at our guide: Dog Mental Health: Expert Tips For Pet Owners.

Getting Started with Senior Dog Training

Success with senior dog training begins with establishing the right environment and routine. Choose a quiet, familiar space in your house where your dog feels comfortable and can focus without distractions. Give your dog a secure and cosy area, such as a crate or a designated resting spot, to help them feel safe and comfortable during training. This might be your living room, a bedroom, or even a quiet corner of your yard - the key is consistency and minimal interruptions from other animals, people, or noise.

Start with short training sessions lasting just 10-15 minutes to respect your senior dog’s attention span and energy levels. Unlike younger dogs who might benefit from longer training blocks, older pets often learn better with brief, frequent interactions spread throughout the day. Plan to practice commands right after potty breaks, just before meals, and after walks when your dog is alert but not overstimulated.

Establish a consistent daily routine that incorporates training into natural transition points. Most dogs thrive on predictability, and senior pets especially appreciate knowing what to expect. This routine also helps you remember to practice regularly rather than letting training sessions slip by during busy days.

Stock up on high-value treats that truly motivate your individual dog. Senior dogs may have changed food preferences or dietary restrictions, so experiment to find rewards that generate genuine excitement. Some older pets prefer softer treats that are easier to chew, while others remain motivated by their favourite crunchy snacks. The key is finding something special that your dog only gets during training sessions.

Use positive reinforcement exclusively throughout your training program. Punishment-based methods can be confusing and discouraging for senior dogs, potentially damaging the trust you’re working to build. Instead, reward desired behaviours immediately with treats, praise, or whatever your dog finds most motivating. This creates positive associations with training that make your dog eager to participate.

Here are a few practical tips to make the training process smoother for both you and your senior dog.

Essential Basic Commands

Begin your training program by refreshing or teaching the fundamental commands that form the foundation of good behaviour. The bond and understanding between the dog and the person training them can greatly influence how effectively these basic commands are learned. Start with “sit” as your cornerstone command since it’s relatively easy for most senior dogs and creates a calm, controlled position for further learning.

To teach or reinforce “sit,” hold a treat close to your dog’s nose and slowly move it up and back over their head. Most dogs will naturally sit as they follow the treat. The moment their bottom touches the ground, say “sit” clearly, give the treat, and offer enthusiastic praise. Practice this sequence 5-10 times per session, always rewarding successful attempts immediately.

Work on building a reliable “stay” command for safety and impulse control. Start with very short durations - literally just 1-2 seconds - and gradually increase the time as your dog becomes more confident. Begin by having your dog sit, then hold up your hand in a “stop” gesture while taking a small step back. If they remain in position for even a moment, return immediately to reward them. This command requires patience since many senior dogs want to follow their owners closely.

Practice “come” in a secure, enclosed area where your dog can’t get into danger if they don’t respond immediately. Start from just a few feet away and use an enthusiastic, happy voice to call your dog’s name, followed by “come.” When they move toward you, reward them lavishly, even if they don’t come all the way. Gradually increase the distance as their response becomes more reliable.

Teach “down” as another foundation command that promotes calm behaviour and provides mental stimulation without physical stress. From a sitting position, hold a treat to your dog’s nose and slowly lower it to the floor between their front paws. Many dogs will follow the treat into a down position naturally. As soon as their elbows touch the ground, say “down,” give the treat, and praise enthusiastically.

Focus on loose leash walking to make daily exercise more enjoyable for both you and your senior dog. Start practising indoors or in your yard where distractions are minimal. When your dog walks beside you without pulling, reward them with treats and praise. If they start to pull ahead, stop moving until they return to your side, then continue walking. This teaches that pulling doesn’t get them where they want to go.

House Training Refreshers

Many senior dogs experience changes in their bathroom habits due to medical issues, routine changes, or simply forgetting established patterns. Approach house training refreshers with patience and consistency rather than frustration, especially if your previously house-trained dog has started having accidents.

Increase the frequency of potty breaks, particularly after meals, naps, and first thing in the morning. Senior dogs may need to eliminate more often than they did when younger, and their signals might be less obvious. Take your dog outside every 2-3 hours during the day and immediately after they wake up from sleeping.

Establish a specific outdoor area for bathroom breaks and take your dog to the same spot each time. This helps create strong associations and makes the elimination process more predictable. Stay outside with your dog until they eliminate, then reward them immediately with treats and enthusiastic praise. Make outdoor success much more rewarding than simply coming back inside.

Consider using a crate as a management tool if your senior dog is comfortable with confinement. Most dogs won’t eliminate in their sleeping space, so a properly sized crate can help prevent accidents when you can’t supervise directly. However, ensure your older dog can hold their bladder for the confined period and that the crate remains a positive space, not a punishment.

Clean any indoor accidents thoroughly with enzymatic cleaners specifically designed to eliminate pet odours. Regular household cleaners may mask the scent from human noses but leave traces that encourage your dog to use the same spot again. Remove all traces of odour to prevent repeat incidents in problem areas.

Address any underlying medical issues that might contribute to house training problems. Increased urination, difficulty holding bladder control, or sudden changes in bathroom habits warrant a veterinary examination. Conditions like urinary tract infections, kidney issues, or cognitive decline can all affect house training reliability in senior dogs.

Creating a Routine for Your Senior Dog

Establishing a consistent routine is one of the best ways to support your senior dog’s well-being as they age. Older dogs thrive on predictability, and a regular schedule can help reduce anxiety, confusion, and even accidents in the house. Start by setting fixed times for feeding, walks, play, and rest. This structure not only helps with house training but also provides much-needed mental stimulation throughout the day.

When planning your senior dog’s routine, consider their age, breed, and any health conditions. For example, dogs with arthritis or joint issues may benefit from shorter, more frequent walks rather than long outings. Gentle play sessions and low-impact exercise, like slow strolls or indoor games, can keep your dog active without putting unnecessary strain on their body. Regular, brief training sessions can also be woven into the daily schedule to keep your dog’s mind sharp and reinforce good behaviour.

A consistent routine is especially helpful for senior dogs experiencing cognitive decline, as it creates a sense of security and helps them anticipate what comes next. By tailoring your dog’s daily activities to their unique needs, you’ll not only make life easier for your older pet but also strengthen your bond and support their overall health and happiness.

Building a Bond with Your Older Dog

As dogs age, their need for companionship and reassurance often grows. Building a strong bond with your older dog is essential for their emotional health and can make training sessions more effective and enjoyable for both of you. Spend quality time together each day, whether it’s through gentle play, leisurely walks, or simply relaxing side by side. These moments of connection help your senior dog feel loved and secure.

Incorporating positive reinforcement into your daily interactions is a powerful way to deepen your relationship. Reward your dog for good behaviour with treats, praise, or their favourite activity, and focus on creating positive experiences during training sessions. If you notice new behavioural challenges as your dog ages, consider enrolling in a training class designed for senior dogs or seeking professional training. These resources can help you adapt your approach to your dog’s changing needs and address any age-related issues with patience and understanding.

Remember, every training session is an opportunity to strengthen your bond. By approaching your older dog with empathy, consistency, and encouragement, you’ll help them feel valued and supported throughout their golden years.

Special Considerations for Senior Dogs

Training senior dogs requires adapting your approach to accommodate the physical and cognitive changes that come with age. Joint problems, arthritis, and reduced mobility mean you’ll need to modify exercises that involve jumping, extensive movement, or positions that might cause discomfort. If your dog shows signs of stiffness or reluctance to perform certain movements, consult with your vet about appropriate modifications.

Consider using softer surfaces for training sessions, especially for commands that involve lying down or extended stays in one position. A yoga mat or soft rug can provide cushioning that makes floor exercises more comfortable for dogs with joint issues. Avoid training on hard concrete or tile surfaces that might aggravate existing arthritis or hip problems.

Account for potential sensory changes that affect how your senior dog perceives and responds to training cues. Dogs with hearing loss might not respond to verbal commands consistently, requiring you to incorporate more visual signals and hand gestures. Similarly, dogs with vision problems may need extra time to process their environment and additional verbal cues to understand what’s expected.

Be mindful of your senior dog’s energy levels and adjust training intensity accordingly. Some older dogs tire more easily and need frequent breaks, while others maintain good stamina but require gentler physical demands. Watch for signs of fatigue like excessive panting, lying down during sessions, or loss of focus, and end training on a positive note before your dog becomes overwhelmed.

Allow extra time for your senior dog to process new information and form new habits. Older dogs may need more repetitions to master new commands and longer periods to solidify learning. This doesn’t reflect lower intelligence or stubbornness - it’s simply how the ageing brain processes information. Celebrate small improvements and maintain realistic expectations about learning timelines.

If you're unsure how to tell when your pup is uncomfortable, have a look at our guide: How to Tell If My Dog's Joints Hurt? Tips For Pet Owners.

Working with Dogs with Difficult Backgrounds

Senior dogs from shelters, rescues, or difficult previous situations may bring additional challenges that require specialised approaches. These dogs might have learned to fear human hands, react negatively to certain tools or situations, or display anxiety around training activities. Approach these dogs with extra patience and focus on building trust before attempting formal training.

Start by simply spending time together without making any demands. Let your senior dog approach you on their own terms and reward any voluntary interaction with gentle praise and treats. Some dogs need days or weeks to feel secure enough to engage in active training, and rushing this process can set back your progress significantly.

Recognise signs of stress or fear that might indicate your dog is overwhelmed by training activities. These include excessive panting, drooling, trembling, trying to hide, or shutting down completely. If you notice these signs, reduce the intensity of your training sessions and focus on building positive associations with your presence and basic care activities.

Use food puzzles and gentle enrichment activities to help anxious dogs build confidence while providing mental stimulation. These activities allow dogs to succeed at their own pace without pressure from direct human interaction. As their confidence grows, you can gradually introduce more structured training activities.

Know when to seek professional help for dogs with severe anxiety, aggression, or trauma-related issues. A certified professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviourist can provide specialised techniques for working with troubled senior dogs and ensure training remains safe for everyone involved.

Training Techniques That Work Best for Older Dogs

Positive reinforcement forms the foundation of successful senior dog training and should be your primary method for encouraging desired behaviours. This approach involves rewarding your dog immediately when they perform the correct action, creating positive associations that make them eager to repeat the behaviour. Use treats, praise, toys, or whatever motivates your individual dog most effectively.

Keep training sessions short but frequent to match your senior dog’s attention span and energy levels. Two or three 10-15 minute sessions throughout the day often prove more effective than one longer session that might overwhelm or tire your older pet. This frequency also provides multiple opportunities for success and reinforcement.

Maintain absolute consistency in your commands and expectations across all family members. Senior dogs benefit from predictable routines and clear communication, so ensure everyone in your household uses the same verbal cues and hand signals. Mixed messages can confuse older dogs and slow their learning progress significantly.

Practising training around other dogs in a safe and controlled environment can also help improve your senior dog's social skills and behaviour. Exposure to other dogs during training sessions encourages positive interactions and reinforces good manners.

Practice patience and celebrate incremental progress rather than expecting immediate perfection. Senior dogs may need more time to process new information and form new habits, but this doesn’t mean they can’t learn effectively. Focus on small improvements and maintain a positive attitude that encourages your dog’s continued effort and engagement.

Break complex behaviours into smaller, manageable steps that build toward your final goal. For example, if you want your dog to go to their bed and stay there, first teach them to approach the bed, then to lie down on it, and finally to remain there for increasing durations. This step-by-step approach prevents frustration and creates multiple opportunities for success and reward.

Incorporate training into your dog’s daily routine whenever possible. Practice “sit” before meals, work on “stay” while preparing their food, and reinforce “come” during regular play sessions. This integration makes training feel natural and provides numerous practice opportunities without requiring separate, formal sessions.

Use high-value rewards that genuinely motivate your senior dog and reserve these special treats exclusively for training sessions. This might mean discovering new favourite foods or adjusting treat choices to accommodate dental issues or dietary restrictions common in older pets. The goal is to find rewards that create genuine excitement and anticipation for training time.

End every training session on a positive note with a successful command and enthusiastic praise. This ensures your senior dog associates training with good feelings and remains eager to participate in future sessions. If your dog struggles with a new command, return to something they know well before ending the session.

Mental Stimulation for Older Dogs

Keeping your older dog’s mind active is just as important as maintaining their physical health. As dogs age, they may experience a decline in cognitive abilities, but regular mental stimulation can help slow this process and improve their quality of life. Engage your older dog in activities that challenge their brain, such as puzzle toys, scent games, or trick training. These activities not only provide entertainment but also help maintain memory, problem-solving skills, and focus.

Teaching your older dog new tricks is a great way to keep them mentally engaged. For example, you can train your dog to touch a specific toy with their nose, find hidden treats, or perform simple tasks like “sit” or “down” in response to new cues. Trick training sessions can be short and fun, offering both mental stimulation and an opportunity to bond.

If you’re unsure which activities are best for your dog’s age and abilities, consult a professional trainer or behaviourist. They can recommend tailored mental stimulation exercises and help address any behavioural changes that may arise as your dog gets older. By making mental stimulation a regular part of your routine, you’ll help your older dog stay sharp, happy, and connected to you for years to come.

For tailored advice on senior dog nutrition and how it supports cognitive health, check out our blog: Senior Dog Diet: Tips For Pet Owners.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many pet owners can successfully train their senior dogs using positive reinforcement techniques, certain situations warrant professional intervention. If you encounter persistent training challenges with your senior dog, it is important to seek advice from professional trainers, behaviourists, or veterinarians. Persistent behavioural issues that don’t improve with consistent home training may require specialised expertise to identify underlying causes and develop targeted solutions.

Contact a certified professional trainer if your senior dog displays aggression toward people or other animals, even if it seems mild or infrequent. Aggression can escalate quickly and poses safety risks that require immediate professional assessment. Look for trainers with specific experience in senior dog behaviour and positive reinforcement methods rather than dominance-based approaches.

Seek help for severe anxiety or fearfulness that interferes with your dog’s quality of life or prevents effective training. Professional trainers can teach you techniques for building confidence, reducing anxiety triggers, and creating positive associations with previously frightening situations. They may also recommend working with a veterinary behaviourist for cases requiring medication alongside behavioural modification.

Consider enrolling in a training class specifically designed for senior dogs or beginner adult dogs. These classes provide structured learning environments with controlled distractions and professional guidance. The socialisation aspect can benefit senior dogs who need practice interacting calmly with other people and animals under supervision.

Look for trainers who hold certifications from recognised organisations like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) or the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC). These credentials indicate education in modern, science-based training methods that prioritise animal welfare and positive reinforcement techniques.

When selecting a professional trainer, ask about their specific experience with senior dogs and their approach to training. Avoid anyone who recommends dominance-based methods, shock collars, or punishment techniques, as these can be particularly harmful for older dogs who may already struggle with confidence or health issues.

A veterinary behaviourist may be necessary for complex cases involving medical and behavioural components. These professionals have veterinary training plus specialised education in animal behaviour, allowing them to address both physical and psychological factors that might be affecting your senior dog’s ability to learn or their overall behaviour.

If you're helping a senior dog eat well, read: What Is The Healthiest Dog Food For Senior Dogs?

Advanced Training for Well-Behaved Senior Dogs

Once your senior dog has mastered basic commands and house training, you can explore more advanced activities that provide mental stimulation and strengthen your bond. However, always consider your individual dog’s physical capabilities and energy levels when selecting new challenges.

Nose work and scent games tap into your dog’s natural abilities while providing excellent mental exercise that doesn’t require intense physical activity. Hide treats around your house or yard and encourage your dog to find them using their sense of smell. Start with easy hiding spots and gradually increase difficulty as your dog becomes more confident with the game.

Teach fun tricks that showcase your senior dog’s intelligence and provide entertainment for your family. Commands like “shake,” “roll over,” “play dead,” or “speak” can be learned at any age and often become favourite activities for both dog and owner. Focus on tricks that don’t require jumping or strenuous movement to accommodate any physical limitations.

Puzzle toys and interactive feeding devices provide ongoing mental stimulation between formal training sessions. These tools require your dog to think and problem-solve to access their food or treats, keeping their mind active throughout the day. Rotate different puzzles to maintain novelty and prevent boredom.

Consider low-impact activities like swimming if your senior dog enjoys water and has access to appropriate facilities. Swimming provides excellent exercise for dogs with joint problems while building muscle strength and cardiovascular health. Always supervise water activities and ensure your dog can exit safely.

Train practical household behaviours that make your senior dog a helpful family member. Teaching them to bring you their leash before walks, carry light items, or close cabinet doors can provide purpose and mental engagement while strengthening your relationship through cooperative activities.

For highly motivated senior dogs, gentle agility exercises using low jumps, tunnels, or weave poles can provide physical and mental challenges. Focus on fun and participation rather than speed or competition, and always prioritise your dog’s comfort and safety over performance.

Create treasure hunts by hiding favourite toys or treats throughout your house and teaching your dog to search for specific items. This activity combines obedience training, scent work, and problem-solving while providing excellent mental stimulation that can tire your dog as effectively as physical exercise.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to train a senior dog compared to a puppy?

Senior dogs often learn basic commands just as quickly as puppies, sometimes even faster due to their improved attention spans and reduced distractibility. However, they may need more repetitions to solidify new habits and typically require 2-4 weeks of consistent practice to master a new command, compared to 1-2 weeks for younger dogs. The key difference is that senior dogs need more patience during the learning process, but often retain information better once they’ve mastered it.

What should I do if my senior dog seems to forget previously learned commands?

Sudden loss of previously known commands can indicate medical issues like cognitive decline, hearing loss, or other health problems that warrant veterinary evaluation. If medical causes are ruled out, return to basics with gentle refresher training using high-value rewards. Sometimes, environmental changes, stress, or simply a lack of practice can cause temporary “forgetting” that responds well to patient retraining.

Are there specific health concerns I should consider when training my older dog?

Yes, arthritis and joint problems are common in senior dogs and may limit their ability to perform certain positions or movements. Always consult your veterinarian before starting intensive training, especially if your dog shows signs of stiffness or discomfort. Additionally, cognitive changes, hearing or vision loss, and medications can all affect learning ability and should be factored into your training approach.

How can I tell if my senior dog is too tired or stressed during training sessions?

Watch for signs like excessive panting, drooling, attempting to leave the training area, lying down during sessions, loss of focus, or reluctance to take treats. These indicate your dog needs a break or that the session should end. Senior dogs may also show subtle signs of fatigue, like slower response times or decreased enthusiasm, which suggest it’s time to wrap up on a positive note.

What’s the best way to introduce a newly adopted senior dog to training?

Allow 2-4 weeks for your new senior dog to adjust to your home before beginning formal training. Focus initially on building trust through gentle interactions, establishing routines, and providing security. Start with very short, positive sessions once your dog seems comfortable, beginning with commands they might already know to build confidence. Be especially patient with rescue dogs who may have had negative training experiences in their past.