Reconnect with your senior dog

#Middlebury #Dog

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My large mixed-breed dog, Hatchet, is 12 years old, and his discipline has slipped quite a bit in the past couple of years. That’s probably my fault because I’ve been consumed with running a new business and barely have time to walk him. But this year I’ve resolved to get back on track with our daily walks. Trouble is, Hatchet will not listen or come when I call him, especially at the park. Can he be retrained? – Doug L., Austin, Texas

DEAR DOUG: Giving Hatchet refresher training in basic obedience is a great idea! Once you start working with him daily, he should pick those skills right back up – especially if you use positive reinforcement methods.

Committing to that daily walk with him is the best thing you can do to improve his behavior and response to commands.

Because Hatchet is a senior dog, he may tire more easily on your walks and may not respond to commands as snappily as he did when he was a puppy. Be a little patient with him. If he isn’t responding well to the “come” command at the park, keep him on his leash during walks and work with him on that command while in the park.

If Hatchet doesn’t improve, if he seems lethargic or perhaps a little snappy with other dogs, or if he just seems off, take him to the veterinarian for a checkup. Senior dogs can develop physical issues that distract them from training – things like arthritis pain or endocrine problems. Make sure those aren’t getting in the way of his outdoor time. Best of luck!

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