Training a Rescue Dog

Some people say you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. However, that’s not the case. At any age you can help to create a better working relationship with your dog. You just have to communicate effectively - combining listening to their needs with clear boundaries. Rescue dogs are one good example of this. Plus thinking about how to train a rescue dog is actually a good reminder for all pet owners as to how to train their furry friend. The same principles apply you just have to show consistency, kindness and patience.

Reward based training is the best method for training any animal. You show them the correct behaviour and then reward them, with positive reinforcement, both treats and your voice. After each correct behaviour you lavish praise on them and as appropriate a small treat. Many dogs are very food orientated so a small training session on an empty stomach before a scheduled meal can really command their attention. Reward based training is particularly important for rescue dogs who may have had traumatic experiences that cause them to shut down entirely if frightened by the method of correction, but no dogs learn well from a place of fear. In fact, it often causes them to forget what been learnt altogether and to retreat into more primal instincts.

For most dogs it’s better to keep the training sessions short, frequent and sweet. Plus make sure you stay entirely consistent about the commands and expectations, so they are clear on what’s being asked for, which is easier for you in a shorter training session as well. If different family members are sharing the training make sure you are all consistent about the ask, expectation and reward.

Use your emotional antennae. Dogs may not be able to speak but they talk to us through their behaviour. Watch your dog closely at all times during training and see how they respond. Listen with your ears, eyes and your body. Pivot your training if you see that certain approaches are more effective than others. End the training if you see they are getting bored. Just as you would train a toddler, have a plan for their training but be flexible enough to observe and respond to their individual needs.

Calmly and confidently show them who is boss. Like toddlers all dogs need boundaries. Like the teacher in the classroom, you need to quietly and firmly show them who is boss. They need to learn to respect you and you need to treat them with kindness and patience. Rescue dogs need more of that than any other dogs as its highly likely that they have had traumatic experiences at some stage in their earlier life. Invest the love and the time and you will find you have an unbelievably loyal and loving dog.

One of my clients Sally Duckworth, who wrote this post worked with me to train a Grenadian rescue dog, a dog from the streets who had never been in a home or sat in a car, to be a fully trained medical assistance service dog. He was one of the fastest learners I ever had and behaves impeccably, travelling the world on trains, planes, tubes and automobiles, visting offices and museums at his handlers side. The vets could not believe what was achieved in a relatively short space of time, but he is living proof that kindness and patience are rewarded.