Adopting a new four-legged companion is always a life-changing event. You have thought a lot and have 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 all 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 slides forward on her belly with her ears back, obeying but very hesitant and scared as if she was expecting a blow. That’s when you realize she’s coming from a previous bad situation, and now going up against you is a training challenge you may not have anticipated.

Many dog ​​owners find themselves in this situation when they adopt senior 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’re adopting 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 loving relationship you want.

Build confidence, 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. Therefore, it is crucial in the early stages of her relationship that no matter how frustrated she may be, we all have our down 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 to get progressively more assertive in your training sessions and obedience expectations.

Another important training component for the shy dog ​​is building Lacey’s self-confidence. This is accomplished in part through his training efforts, but socialization and changes of scenery are just as important. Take Lacey to the dog park, doggy 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 introduction 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 check on Lacey periodically during the day or keep her on the weekend. The advantage of this is that he will learn to feel comfortable outside of your presence, which is an important component of owning a well-rounded animal and helps you remain calm and relaxed when you board him for a vacation or business trip.

What you can keep waiting for
As you go through your training, you’ll likely run into this common scenario: Lacey has an excellent grasp of basic commands, but only in certain places and situations. She sits down at the first command in the house, but she ignores you outside on a walk when she is busy with something else? She remembers that you must establish yourself as the alpha, which means that she must obey you at first command no matter the situation. She begins to give orders in various situations that she normally doesn’t, and she doesn’t give in until Lacey complies. Do not use undue 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’ve established with the shy dog ​​and teach her the true meaning of sitting, which is that she sits, stays, or comes when you say no matter the situation.

With a little effort, commitment, and a large dose of love and understanding, you’ll soon find yourself with 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 have established that bond with you through disciplined training and love.