Hello Reader,

You might have heard the saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.”

Well… science and dog trainers might just say otherwise. Dogs retain the capacity to learn throughout their life (just like we do) although how they learn does change over time. Let’s talk about how we can make training more effective at any age.

• Studies have shown that adult dogs can learn new behaviours and generalize them across various contexts including older dogs with years of experience. ScienceDirect​
• Dogs also engage in social learning (watching and learning from humans or other dogs). Adult dogs have been shown to observe human demonstrations and then replicate behaviours. Nature+2ScienceDirect+2​

Older dogs may need more repetition or slower pacing, but they are certainly not done learning.

Puppies vs. Adult Dogs: What’s the Difference?

Neural plasticity & flexibility - Puppy’s brains are still developing, making them more open to new associations and learning. In adult dogs’ plasticity is lower, so shifting old habits may take more effort (just like in us).

Speed & efficiency - Puppies may pick up simple associations faster, but they may be clumsy and easily distractable. Adults may take more time but will still learn very well with consistent positive reinforcement and encouragement.

Attention span and impulse control – Puppies and teen dogs are more distractible and impulsive. Adults often have more self control or at least more predictable behaviour in general.

Tips: How to support learning at any age

1. Short, frequent sessions​
   Both in older dogs and puppies; keep training sessions brief (5–10 min) but more frequent (2-3x per day) to prevent fatigue or frustration.
2. Use high-value rewards​
   Modify the rewards to what the dog really cares about now (treats, toys, praise). What was motivating at 4 months might not be at 9 years.
3. Fade cues & generalize​
   Once a behaviour is learned in one context, practice in different rooms, with distractions, as well as outdoors, to help promote learning.
4. Never use punishment!​
   Mistakes are a normal part of learning. Avoid any harsh corrections which will damage trust or confidence. Just take a step back and try again.
5. Practice patience and celebrate small wins​
   Progress may be slower in older dogs and young puppies, but small consistent gains are absolute wins. Using a training tracker or simple spreadsheet can help you to see your progress.

Weekly Challenge:

Try the “one new trick challenge” this week. Teach your dog or puppy a fun new cue. It can be something as simple as a ‘hand target’ or a ‘look at me cue’.

Tip sheet for “hand-target” cue​

Tip sheet for “look at me" cue​

More ways to learn about puppies & dogs...

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Come When Called - Recall Jan 5 · Positive Dog 10:45   ​

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