Old Dogs, New Tricks

a note from senior trainer Melissa Arbitman

Wondering what this class is and why we are offering it? Wondering if it’s right for your dog? Do you think training is just for puppies? (It’s not!)

Old Dogs, New Tricks is a class created partially from my experience as a dog trainer, but also from my years spent rescuing senior dogs. Having had several senior dogs spend their last years or months with me, I’ve seen a lot of the great aspects of having a senior, but also experienced different challenges that come in a dog’s golden years. I’ve put all of this together and designed this course to help our dogs age gracefully, and to help humans understand what their dogs are going through as they age. 

People spend a lot of time focused on training puppies and figuring out how to meet their needs, but as our dogs go from puppies to adults, and then to seniors, we often get into a routine where training and enrichment are no longer our focus. But just like puppies, older dogs need mental stimulation and exercise to be healthy and happy. The way they get these things looks a little different, but it’s still so important to have the quality of life they deserve. 

So, what exactly do we do in this course?

We learn how to play with older dogs in ways they enjoy. We keep them mentally engaged by teaching them new skills and games to play so their minds stay active. We focus some of their new skills on moving in ways that will strengthen their bodies, keeping their cores and legs strong into their older years.

Another aspect of older age is often increased medical care and giving medications. It’s important our dogs get the care they need, so we work on teaching them to willingly take medication, and being comfortable with the distinct handling that comes along with aging. We also focus on cooperative care, teaching dogs to let us know when they are uncomfortable or need breaks, so they are able to be examined with less stress. 

And than there’s the human side of things.

Learning how to help our best canine friends as their senses begin to fail and their bodies and minds may get weaker. We’ll discuss how best to support them through this, going over strategies for when things get tough. 

Whether your dog just turned 7 and you want to maintain their excellent quality of life while preparing for the future, or your dog is 16 and you are navigating through struggles they are having, Old Dogs, New Tricks is the class for you.

Keep your dog young at heart and let us be there for you and your dogs through their golden years. Because old dogs can learn new tricks! 

Old Dog, New Old Dog, New Tricks’ inaugural class will begin 11/12 at West 85th Street at 3:45 PM.