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Behaviourist Sets Out Five Tricks to Help Older Dogs Learn

Reward-based, age-appropriate training supports older dogs' wellbeing, strengthening bonds.

Overview

  • Clinical animal behaviourist Rosie Bescoby says older dogs retain the ability to learn new skills when training is tailored.
  • The suggested tricks—Nose-to-Hand Touch, Middle Position, Spin, Shake, and Go to Bed—include a visual recall cue useful for dogs with hearing loss.
  • Bescoby advises adapting exercises to each dog's mobility and build so movements stay comfortable and achievable.
  • She recommends identifying what motivates each dog and using suitable rewards such as portions of dinner or favourite toys.
  • Petgevity amplified the guidance while promoting lifetime policies for pets of any age that cover most pre-existing conditions.