By: The Charlee Bear Staff
As dogs age, it’s not a question of whether they should continue training, but how to adapt it to their changing needs. Continuing to train benefits senior dogs by encouraging gentle activity, keeping their minds sharp, and strengthening the bond between dog and owner. With National Senior Pet Month around the corner, now is the perfect time to show love and appreciation for our older companions.
If a client wants to continue training with their aging pet but isn’t sure where to begin, this guide can help!
Adapting the Approach
Before creating a new routine, clients should first consider their dog’s physical and mental abilities. Does the dog have trouble hearing? Is its vision impaired? Are there signs of arthritis or joint stiffness? Once a client understands what their senior dog can comfortably do, it becomes easier to tailor training sessions accordingly. For a dog with hearing loss, teach the client to use hand signals or gentle touch cues to capture attention. If vision is the issue, focus on verbal commands like “sit” or “heel.” For pets with limited mobility, choose low-impact tricks that minimize strain — such as teaching “touch” (the dog nudges the client’s hand with its nose) instead of more strenuous movements like “roll over” or “lie down.” Mental changes can also affect training. Encourage clients to watch for signs of increased anxiety, confusion, or forgetfulness. If a dog seems more anxious or easily disoriented, remind the client to stay patient, use a calm tone, and give frequent praise. For forgetful pups, short, consistent refreshers of familiar tricks work best. In all cases, keeping sessions brief but regular helps maintain engagement without frustration — for both the dog and the owner.
Focus on Positive Reinforcement & Comfort
Positive reinforcement remains the most effective and rewarding training method, regardless of age. For food-motivated dogs, Charlee Bear’s Grain Free Meaty Bites are an excellent choice — they’re low in calories, freeze-dried, and include probiotics for easier digestion in senior dogs. If the dog responds better to attention or play, have the client offer affection, favorite toys, or verbal praise as rewards instead. Comfort is equally important. Encourage clients to choose a quiet, familiar setting if their dog is easily startled by noise or activity. When introducing new tricks, start with familiar commands and gradually build on them — this boosts confidence and keeps learning enjoyable.
The End Goal
At the end of the day, a happy dog means a happy client. Approach senior-dog training with empathy, patience, and adaptability. Even if progress feels slower, older dogs still love learning and engaging with their humans. With the right support, they can continue to thrive — and their owners will enjoy the deeply rewarding experience of watching their faithful companions gain confidence and joy in their golden years.
