Training Archives | Bare Pets

How to Train an Adult Dog: A Comprehensive Guide for Pet Parents

Date

10 March 2025

Why Training an Adult Dog Is Worth the Effort

Contrary to the old saying, you can teach an old dog new tricks. Adult dogs often have longer attention spans and a greater capacity for focus compared to puppies. Training isn’t just about teaching commands; it’s also about strengthening your relationship and helping your dog feel secure in their environment.

Whether you’re working on basic obedience, behavioral issues, or fun tricks, training an adult dog can improve their quality of life—and yours too.

1. Start with Positive Reinforcement Training

Positive reinforcement training is one of the most effective ways to train an adult dog. This method rewards your dog for good behavior rather than punishing them for mistakes. Rewards can include treats, praise, or even playtime.

Steps to Implement Positive Reinforcement:

Identify High-Value Rewards: Find out what motivates your dog. For many dogs, this might be small, tasty treats or pieces of kibble. You can find high-quality kibble and wet food options on Bare’s shop page.
Be Consistent: Reward your dog immediately after they perform the desired behavior. Timing is crucial!
Use a Marker: A simple “yes” or a clicker can help your dog associate the reward with the behavior.

For example, if you’re teaching your dog to sit, say “sit,” wait for them to comply, and immediately reward them. Repeat this process consistently to reinforce the behavior.

2. Correcting Bad Habits in Dogs

Adult dogs may come with ingrained habits that need some adjustment. Whether it’s jumping on guests, pulling on the leash, or barking excessively, consistency and patience are key to correcting these behaviors.

Tips for Correcting Bad Habits:

Redirect the Behavior: If your dog jumps on people, teach them to sit instead. Reward them when they choose the correct behavior.
Avoid Reinforcing the Bad Habit: For example, don’t reward barking by giving attention. Instead, wait for a moment of silence and then reward the calm behavior.
Use Tools Wisely: Harnesses, no-pull leashes, and puzzle toys can help manage certain behaviors while you work on training.

Remember, correcting bad habits isn’t about punishment—it’s about teaching your dog what you want them to do instead.

3. How to Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

Teaching tricks is not only fun but also mentally stimulating for your dog. It’s never too late to start, and the process can be incredibly rewarding for both of you.

Easy Tricks to Teach an Adult Dog:

Shake Hands: Hold a treat in your hand, close your fist, and let your dog sniff it. Once they paw at your hand, say “shake” and reward them.
Spin: Use a treat to guide your dog in a circle. Once they complete the spin, say “spin” and reward them.
Stay: Ask your dog to sit, then hold your hand out like a stop sign and say “Stay.” Take a step back, and reward them if they stay in place.

Teaching new tricks requires patience, but the mental exercise can help reduce boredom and improve your dog’s overall behavior.

4. The Best Training Methods for Adult Dogs

When it comes to training adult dogs, the key is to use methods that align with their unique needs and personality. Here are some of the best training methods for adult dogs:

Clicker Training

Clicker training pairs a clicking sound with rewards to mark desired behaviors. This method is highly effective for precision training and can be used for everything from basic commands to advanced tricks.

Routine-Based Training

Adult dogs thrive on routine. Establish set times for training sessions, meals, and walks. Consistency helps them understand what’s expected and builds trust.

Gradual Desensitization

If your dog struggles with fear or anxiety, gradual exposure to triggers (like loud noises or strangers) can help them feel more comfortable. Pair exposure with positive reinforcement to create positive associations.

5. Addressing Common Challenges

Training an adult dog isn’t without its hurdles. Here’s how to handle some common challenges:

Short Attention Spans: Keep training sessions short—about 10-15 minutes—and end on a positive note.
Stubbornness: Stay patient and avoid getting frustrated. Break tasks into smaller steps and celebrate small wins.
Food Motivation Issues: If your dog isn’t food-motivated, try using toys, praise, or affection as rewards.

If you’re facing persistent challenges, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for personalized guidance.

6. The Role of Nutrition in Training

Did you know that your dog’s diet can impact their ability to focus and learn? Providing high-quality food ensures they have the energy and nutrients needed for training.

For example, incorporating healthy treats during training sessions can make learning more enjoyable for your dog. Check out Bare’s shop page for premium kibble and wet food options that your pup will love.

Final Thoughts: Building a Stronger Bond Through Training

Training an adult dog is a journey, not a race. By using positive reinforcement training, addressing bad habits, and exploring the best training methods for adult dogs, you’ll not only teach them new skills but also deepen your connection.

Remember, patience and consistency are your best tools. Celebrate every small success, and don’t be afraid to seek help if you need it.

Looking for high-quality treats or food to support your training efforts? Explore the full range of products at Bare or head to Bare’s shop page to find all the nutrition you need for successful training sessions!

Ready to start training? Your dog’s next chapter begins with you.

Real dogs deserve real ingredients.

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The Bonding Benefits of Walking Your Dog

Date

29 December 2023

Physical Health Benefits for Both

Walking your dog is not just a routine; it’s a path to better health. Dogs require regular exercise to maintain their weight and overall physical well-being. This activity keeps them agile, strengthens their muscles, and extends their lifespan. Similarly, dog owners benefit from physical activity.

Regular walks are great for cardiovascular health, aid in weight management, and promote a more active lifestyle. This shared experience of maintaining physical health deepens a dog’s and its owner’s bond as they enjoy the rewards of a healthier life.

Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

The mental and emotional benefits of walking a dog are profound. For many dog owners, this time is a stress reliever, offering a break from the hustle of daily life. The simple act of walking with a canine companion can lower stress levels, reduce feelings of anxiety, and boost overall mood.

For dogs, these walks are equally beneficial. They provide mental stimulation, reduce anxiety, and can significantly decrease behavioral problems. This shared experience of emotional relief strengthens the bond, as the dog and its owner find solace and joy in their walks together.

Strengthening the Bond Through Routine Walks

Routine walks establish a unique language of trust and understanding between a dog and its owner. This regular activity creates a sense of security and familiarity for the dog, reinforcing its confidence in its owner. Owners, in turn, learn to read their dog’s behavior and body language more effectively.

Engaging in activities like exploring new routes or playing fetch during walks adds an element of fun and adventure, enhancing the bond. These shared experiences are exercises and opportunities for deepening mutual respect and affection.

Social Interaction and Community Connection

Dog walking opens the door to new social interactions and a stronger community connection. Owners often meet fellow dog walkers, share experiences, and exchange tips, fostering a sense of community. Dogs also benefit from these interactions. They socialize with other dogs, which is crucial for their behavioral development.

This shared social aspect of dog walking enriches the lives of both dogs and their owners, bridging connections with others who share similar interests and love for dogs.

Training and Behavioral Benefits

Dog walks serve as excellent opportunities for behavioral training. Implementing commands like ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ and ‘heel’ during walks can reinforce obedience and good manners. Consistency in these training sessions during walks helps establish clear communication between the dog and the owner.

As a result, dogs become better behaved, and owners gain more confidence in handling their pets. This shared learning experience fortifies the bond, showcasing the value of patience and mutual understanding.

Safety and Precautions

Safety should always be a priority during dog walks. Using the correct leash harness and ensuring the dog’s comfort is vital. Owners must be aware of their surroundings, watching for hazards like traffic or aggressive animals. Understanding and respecting a dog’s body language during walks is also crucial. This precautionary approach ensures enjoyable and safe outings for the dog and its owner.

Conclusion

Walking your dog goes far beyond mere physical exercise. It’s an enriching activity that strengthens the bond between you and your pet, fosters mutual understanding, and contributes to emotional well-being. Regular walks provide invaluable opportunities for training, socializing, and simply enjoying each other’s company.

For those dedicated to their pet’s overall well-being, Bare Pets offers a range of products that complement this bonding journey. Our high-quality pet food ensures your dog stays healthy, energetic, and ready for every walk you take together. Visit Bare Pets to explore our nutritious and delicious options, perfect for keeping your furry friend happy and healthy. Let’s make every walk with your dog a step towards a stronger bond and a healthier life.

Real dogs deserve real ingredients.

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Why Do Pet Dogs Bite Their Owners and How to Solve or Avoid It

Date

04 December 2023

Understanding Dog Aggression and Biting

Do pet dogs bite their owners alone due to anger? The simple answer is no.

Dogs may resort to biting for fear, stress, and medical issues. The American Kennel Club (AKC) specifies that “fear and stress” are often at the root of this problem.

Dog aggression is normal behavior that can be attributed to various factors. While biting can be seen as an extreme form of aggression, it is essential to recognize that dogs may display these behaviors to communicate their emotions or protect themselves in specific situations.

If your pet suddenly displays aggressive behavior, visiting the vet should be your first action. According to VCA Hospitals, underlying health issues could manifest as aggression. Therefore, immediately taking them to the vet to rule out any medical conditions is a vital step.

However, to go about this, you’ll need to practice care to avoid being bitten. Remember, dogs bite as a defense mechanism, not just because of unprovoked aggression.

Play Biting vs. Aggressive Biting

Understanding the difference between play and aggressive biting is crucial for any dog owner. Play biting is a natural behavior, especially in puppies, as they explore the world with their mouths. Here’s how to tell the difference:

Body Language

Playful dogs usually have a more relaxed body language. They may wag their tails, have a loose and bouncy gait, and their mouths might appear more relaxed or open. In contrast, an aggressive dog might show tension in its body, have raised hackles, or display other warning signs like growling, snarling, or baring their teeth.

Context of the Bite

Play bites often occur during games or when the dog is excited. If your dog engages in play and their biting is gentle, it’s likely not a sign of aggression. However, if a dog bites in a situation where they seem fearful, anxious, or territorial, this could indicate aggression.

Intensity of the Bite

Play bites are typically gentle and do not break the skin. At most, you’ll have a mild abrasion. If your dog’s bite is hard and causes injury, it’s more likely to be aggressive behavior.

Importance of Socialization

One of the most effective preventative measures against biting is early socialization. To become well-adjusted, your dog should interact with various people, pets, and environments.

As per the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) guidelines, adequate socialization can reduce aggressive tendencies, and here are some reasons why.

Why Dog Socialization is Important

Reduces Fear and Anxiety

Early and consistent exposure to different people, animals, environments, and situations helps dogs become more confident and less anxious and fearful.

Prevents Long-Term Aggression

Dogs comfortable and familiar with various stimuli, including people and other pets, are less likely to react aggressively out of fear or uncertainty.

Improves Behavior:

Well-socialized dogs are typically better behaved and easier to train, as they are accustomed to following commands and specific social cues in different settings.

Enhances Everyone’s Quality of Life

Socialized dogs can enjoy a wider range of activities, from going on walks outside to playdates to coexisting with other pets, leading to a richer and more fulfilling life.

Builds Positive Relationships

Proper socialization as your pup grows builds positive associations with humans and animals inside and outside your home, fostering trust and companionship.

Steps for Immediate Action

If your dog bites someone, immediate and precise actions are crucial not just for legal reasons but also for the well-being of the dog and the person bitten. This includes properly cleaning the wound and contacting a healthcare provider and then a veterinarian.

For a more detailed plan, consult the AVMA’s dog bite prevention guide.

Assess the Situation: Immediately separate your dog from the person they’ve bitten to avoid further harm. Secure the dog in a separate room or behind a gate.
Administer First Aid: According to the AVMA, initial care for a dog bite wound should involve washing it with soap and water for at least five minutes. This can help remove any bacteria and reduce the chance of infection.
Seek Medical Assistance: Dog bites can lead to infections, viral diseases (i.e. rabies), or other complications. The person who got bitten should seek professional medical evaluation and treatment as soon as possible.
Contact Your Veterinarian: It’s vital to ensure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations, including rabies. Share this information with the healthcare provider treating the bite.
Obtain and Share Information: If the bite victim is someone outside of your household, exchange contact details and insurance information. Additionally, please provide them with your dog’s medical records and vaccination status to speed up the evaluation process.
Report the Incident: Laws vary by jurisdiction, but you may be required to report the dog bite to local authorities or animal control. Follow your local regulations.
Consult a Behaviorist: Even a single biting incident can indicate a deeper behavioral issue that needs to be addressed. The AVMA suggests seeking professional advice from an animal behaviorist or a veterinarian specializing in behavioral problems.
Implement Preventative Measures: Based on advice from the specialist, set in place a plan to manage your dog’s aggression and prevent future incidents. This could involve training, medication, or changes in your dog’s environment.

How to Socialize Your Dog & Prevent Dog Bites

Start Early

Begin socialization when your dog is a puppy, ideally between 3 and 14 weeks of age. Like with humans, this is the critical period for developing social skills.

Expose to Various Environments

Gradually introduce your dog to environments such as parks, streets, and pet-friendly stores. These places have an adequate amount of people to prevent future uncertainty.

Meet Different People

Allow your dog to interact with various people, including friends, family members, and even strangers – men, women, children, and individuals of different ethnicities.

Interact with Other Dogs

Arrange playdates with other well-behaved dogs to teach your pet how to communicate and play appropriately. If you have other dogs at home, slowly introduce your new pup to them.

Introduce New Experiences

Familiarize your dog with different experiences such as daily walks, car rides, vet visits, earning treats, and grooming sessions. This will also enhance their quality of life.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Reward your dog with treats, praise, or toys when they respond positively to new experiences and interactions. Give them gentle pats or rubs to familiarize them with touch.

Stay Patient and Calm

Socialization should be a positive experience for both you and your dog. Avoid forcing your dog into situations where they seem uncertain, scared, or overwhelmed.

Enroll in Training Classes

Professional training classes can provide structured opportunities to socialize and receive expert guidance. Otherwise, you can train your pup yourself! It’ll be a bonding activity.

What to Do if Your Dog Bites You or Another Person

If your dog does bite you or another person, it’s essential to remain calm.

First, take the necessary steps to address the situation. Be sure to clean and care for the wound carefully to avoid infection. Speak with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer about the incident and work on a plan to prevent future events.

If unfamiliar with the dog, exchange contact and vaccination information with the owner. Be sure to report any bites to local animal control or pet authorities, especially if bitten by a stray, to prevent other potential victims and protect public safety.

Consulting a Professional to Help

If your dog has a history of aggressive behavior or has already bitten someone, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help. Veterinarians, certified animal behaviorists, and experienced dog trainers can provide you with valuable tools and information to address the behavior.

Remember, it’s always possible to teach your dog new skills (Don’t believe in the saying, “you can’t teach old dogs new tricks,” because you definitely can!) and help them become a more balanced, emotionally stable, and well-behaved member of your family.

Choosing a Professional Behaviorist

If your dog has a history of biting, it may be time to consult a professional behaviorist. These experts can offer tailored solutions for your pet, as endorsed by VCA Hospitals.

Selecting the right professional behaviorist for your dog is crucial to effectively addressing aggressive behavior. Here’s a quick list to help you make an informed decision:

Check Qualifications

Ensure the behaviorist has relevant certifications, such as a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT).

Experience Matters:

Look for someone with extensive experience dealing with aggression in dogs.

Ask for Referrals

Seek recommendations from your veterinarian, dog trainer, or other pet owners.

Review Methods

Please inquire about the behaviorist’s training methods before hiring them. They should use positive reinforcement techniques rather than punitive measures.

Consultation Process

Understand their approach to consultations and follow-up support. They should offer a thorough initial assessment and a clear, customized plan tailored to your pup.

Observe a Session

Observe a session to see how they interact with dogs and owners, if possible.

Read Reviews

Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge the experiences of other clients.

Communication

Choose a behaviorist who communicates clearly and listens to your concerns and observations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can medication help my aggressive dog?

Yes, medication can sometimes alleviate aggression, but consult your veterinarian first.

How can I tell if my dog’s behavior is playful or aggressive?

Playful dogs usually have relaxed body language, such as tail-wagging, while aggressive dogs often display warning signs like growling or showing teeth.

Is neutering an option to control aggression?

While neutering can sometimes reduce aggression, it is not a guaranteed solution.

What are the legal consequences of my dog biting someone?

Laws vary by jurisdiction, but you could face fines, or your dog may be quarantined.

Conclusion

Do pet dogs bite their owners? Sadly, they can. However, understanding why pet dogs become aggressive helps in prevention. Immediate steps include medical consultations and behavioral assessments. Early socialization and professional consultation can avert future incidents in the long term. Act now to ensure a harmonious relationship with your furry friend.

Real dogs deserve real ingredients.

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