There’s no doubt that training your dog isn’t just for puppy owners.
n fact, Petplan’s latest survey reveals that 73% of Brits believe you can teach an old dog new tricks, highlighting a growing focus on training older pets. While lead pulling and excessive barking remain common behavioural challenges, there’s a rising interest in helping older dogs develop better habits.
Training isn’t just about correcting behaviour—it’s also about creating a more enjoyable, stress-free lifestyle for both pet and owner. Many dog owners are turning to reward-based training methods, with over half (57%) opting for reward-based systems and 52% using positive verbal reinforcement to encourage good behaviour. Yet, the survey also found that time and cost are major barriers to effective training, with 27% of owners saying they struggle to find the time.
Despite these challenges, pet owners are optimistic. Petplan’s Dog Behaviourist, Nick Jones, MA, encourages this, saying “The findings from Petplan’s survey confirm what many of us already know: training a dog, regardless of age, is not only possible but can be highly beneficial.
“As our furry friends grow older and our own lifestyles change, it’s crucial to adapt our training methods to ensure our pets remain happy and well-behaved. From addressing common challenges like lead pulling to utilising positive reinforcement techniques, effective training can significantly enhance the bond between owners and their dogs, which helps lead to content owners and happy dogs. Too much change, too quickly, can be stressful for older dogs, so using age-appropriate training techniques is essential.”
As our lifestyles continue to evolve—whether from more time spent working from home or a greater focus on finding the perfect pet-friendly space—dog training has become an important part of the modern pet-owner relationship. And while every dog has its quirks, it’s clear that with a little patience and the right techniques, owners can help their furry friends—at any age—develop the habits that make life easier and more enjoyable for everyone.
You can find more about the survey results and training tips here: https://www.petplan.co.uk/pet-information/dog/advice/teach-old-dog-new-tricks/
