The rule of seven states that by the time your dog is 7 weeks old they should have been exposed to different locations, eat from different containers, meet different people, drive 7 miles in a car. As well as Crate exposure at least 7 times, exposed to seven different toys, 7 times with no litter mates or mom, exposed to 7 surfaces and the list goes on.
Most dogs go home from breeders at 8-9 weeks old. Many behavior cases can be traced back to a lack of adequate socialization. This rule is to help guide you to molding a well mannered older dog.
Can Old Dogs Learn New Tricks?
Dogs of any age are capable to be trained. Puppies are easier to train as they are more like sponges ready to absorb knowledge whereas older dogs may have habits we have to change in order to create new behaviors. When training new behaviors make sure to use positive reinforcement such as treats or a dog’s favorite toy .
Things to Work on At Home
Exposure to new surfaces. If your dog is afraid of the tile in your kitchen, add some carpets to start. Encourage a sniff or one paw on the tile and reward with treats and praise. Repeat and build on that behavior.
Exposure to new sounds and places. Play noises on your phone. Bring them to the beach or park and just sit with them. Let them take in their world and talk to them. Reward and praise for calm behavior.
Remember to reward the behavior you want.
Do I always have to treat my dog?
Technically no, but why do you not want to? Do you work for free? Same goes for dogs and treats or toys. You can treat every other or every few reps that is fine. When you teach a new behavior you have to reward it a lot. Then slowly alternate when giving treats.
Have more questions on The rule or seven or Training in General? Contact me today!
