Adopting a new four-legged companion is always a life-changing event. You have thought a lot and decided to adopt an older dog. You find the perfect one at your local animal shelter, sign the adoption papers, and a few days later, start your new life as a proud dog owner.

Lacey is just over a year old and the only thing that is known is that she was found wandering the streets of the city. After a few days of letting your new friend get used to her house, you try some basic training commands: Lacey doesn’t respond to sit or lie down. When she calls for her to come, she scoots forward on her belly with her ears back, obeying but very hesitantly and frightened as if she expects a blow. That’s when you realize that she’s coming from a bad situation before, and now facing you is a training challenge you may not have anticipated.

Many dog ​​owners find themselves in this situation when adopting older dogs, and it can be a nasty shock if you don’t prepare ahead of time. Unlike when you adopt a young puppy, bringing home an older dog means you adopt his past history as well. Most dogs that have had previous bad experiences are fully capable of becoming loving, loyal, and devoted companions. They just require a little more work and understanding during the training process to grow and preserve the love relationship you want.

Build trust, then train

With shy dogs, the first thing to do before disciplined training can begin is to establish a bond of trust. Lacey’s previous experience with humans has conditioned her to feel that even when she is behaving well or responding well to a command, she will still be punished. So it’s crucial in the early stages of her relationship that no matter how frustrated she may be, we all have our bad times! – that you do not exhibit similar negative behavior. This is not to say, of course, that you can’t establish yourself as the alpha dog. Stay on the easy side for a week or two, and then start getting progressively more assertive in your training sessions and obedience expectations.

Another important training component for the timid dog is developing Lacey’s self-confidence. This is achieved in part through his training efforts, but socialization and changes of scenery are just as important. Take Lacey to the dog park, dog day camp, or play with other pets as often as is best for both of you. Use good judgment with socializing. Make sure that you can control Lacey, that the presentation situation is safe, and that he has an exit strategy planned out in advance if things don’t go as planned. If possible, enlist a dog-loving friend or family member to periodically check on Lacey during the day or hold her over the weekend. The advantage of this is that he will learn to be comfortable outside of your presence, which is an important component of having a well-rounded animal and helps keep him calm and relaxed when you board him for a vacation or business trip.

What can you keep waiting for?

As you go through your training, you’ll likely come across this common scenario: Lacey has an excellent understanding of basic commands, but only in certain places and situations. Does she sit on command at home, but she ignores you outside on a walk when she’s busy with something else? She remembers that you must establish yourself as the alpha, which means that she must obey you at your first command no matter the situation. She starts giving orders in various situations where she normally doesn’t, and she doesn’t give in until Lacey complies. Do not use improper force, such as physically forcing Lacey to sit down; rather, make it clear that the walk will not continue until they obey you. This tactic will preserve the trust and love you have established with the shy dog ​​and teach her the true meaning of sit, which is for her to sit, stay or come, when you say so no matter the situation.

With a little effort, commitment, and a large dose of love and understanding, you’ll soon find yourself a loving canine companion. Senior dogs that come from bad situations often become the most loyal and protective pets you could hope for once they’ve bonded with you through disciplined training and love.