When out walking with my girlfriend and her elderly Lab, the question of teaching old dogs new tricks circled in the recesses of my brain. Days later, the question wouldn’t leave me alone.
I called the most canine-savvy person I know, my friend Earlene Luke, former dog-show judge, handler, trainer, technical director of the movie Best in Show, and all around dog expert, and asked her the question: Can you teach an old dog new tricks?
13-year-old Sally investigating a turtle.
“Of course. Use a lot of praise. It’s easy to train an old dog.” We chatted further and she mentioned, “Some people think dogs are stupid … But, no!”
During our conversation she told me about a 12-year-old pooch in Minnesota that walks four miles every day to greet the people in his town as an example. My friend Earlene does not believe allowing a dog to wander around off leash is wise, but she cited the purposeful pooch an example of their intelligence. This older pooch is probably wiser at this point in its life, it surely understands the limits of where it can run off too? And since it is older it could be suffering for age-related muscle and joint pains. Apparently, giving these older pooches CBD oil can help them remain limber in their old age. Websites like cbddoghealth.com (check out https://cbddoghealth.com/in-the-press-pet-business-magazine/ for more information) highlight the benefits of CBD oil for older dogs. Letting a dog roam free without a leash is important for any dog to explore. So one must wonder about its owner.
Training an old dog isn’t for everyone, it requires a lot of time and patience. Some owners hire professional dog trainers to get their old dog to do new tricks. There are training centers that provide this type of service, they not only train elderly canines to do new tricks, but they also teach them to be calm around new people. The Newcastle Dog Trainer could be helpful for dog parents looking to get their old pooch trained.
This cat seems fearless!
What about cats? Can they learn new tricks or are they more concerned with teaching us? I once owned a kitty that would tolerate walking on a leash. Came in handy when going to the vet. But what did he do while I was sleeping or out of the house? My best guess is he investigated the kitchen counters.
How about people? I figure almost any teenager in this country has me beat in the technology arena. Do you think a person of sound mind is ever too old to learn to use a computer? Other than bad eyesight, what stops them?
What have you learned after age twenty? When I started attending church in my early thirties I could barely recall how to read music and my singing voice was ho-hum. I found a marvelous and brilliant voice teacher, who kindly took me under her wing. I also took classes through the U of W Continuing Education. Next step was performing in musical theatre or in U of W productions! Great experience, but terrible hours for a woman who prefers to write in the AM.
Fun singing in the University of Washington’s “HMF Pinafore” production!
What do think stops some people from stepping out and signing up for the piano lessons, or watercolor or quilting classes they’ve always wanted to take? Or a language or sport? Why would a person avoid a new experience, such as visiting Amish country. Is there something you’ve dreamed of doing? What deters from venturing out?
Amish-made Table Topper from Lancaster County, PA.
Leave a comment to enter to win this exquisite Amish-made Table Topper from Lancaster County (22″ diameter), plus a signed copy of one Novel from The Legacy of Lancaster Trilogy: either Leaving Lancaster, Pennsylvania Patchwork or Forever Amish. USA and Canada. Winner has one week to respond.
The unknown is scary for most so trying something one knows nothing about may be overwhelming. Maybe a mind change should take place and unknown things should be looked at as adventures and be excited about them.
The unknown can indeed be scary, Melanie. Sometimes that little inner voice can keep a person out of trouble, such as a woman walking into a dark parking garage. But some of those inner voices are left over from childhood and need to be addressed, not such a bad endeavor. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I believe most of us have a fear of the unknown, we get comfortable in the uncomfortable. It’s hard for us to trust God’s plan when we can’t see the end result. We live in a instant society and so with that said if we take that leap of faith and do something new we get a fear of rejection weather it’s being not good enough, being laughed at, or just failing .
What we all need to remember is the definitions of Faith: which is Faith is being sure of what we hope for, And certain of what we do not see!
So when we take that leap of faith and try something new trust that our faith will carry us through , and weather it’s something we master or we are just ok at its fine because in life anything we know it a skill mastered in the big scheme of life.
The fear of rejection or being laughed at keeps many from trying new things, Cherese. You can see this in young children and adults. Happily, most of us grow out of the uncertainty and don’t care what others think of us … as much, anyway. Faith in what we cannot see is definitely the best foundation. Thanks for writing and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I am an old dog that can’t learn new tricks LOL……the table topper is beautiful! Thanks for the opportunity to win it & one of your books!
Blessings,
Lorraine
I bet you’ve learned a few new tricks over the last 10 years, Lorraine! Many of us didn’t grow up with computers or cell phones, let alone Facebook. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I think time is often a reason people don’t step out to experience something new. Or, rather, the lack of time! I am waiting for the time to come where my homeschooled teens will be in college and won’t need so much of my time. Beautiful table topper!
Homeschooling your teens is time well spent, Tracie! You are excelling in an area where many women would not dare to tread for fear of failing. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway. Good luck!
Kate
My lack of self-confidence
The fact that you are writing me tells me you do have some self-confidence, Myrtle! Good for you for entering the giveaway!
Kate
Yes, I do think you can teach an old dog new tricks…you just need to have a handful of doggie treats, patience, along with a willing determination!
What my friend Earlene said, Anita! A week after speaking to her I asked a woman who had adopted an older dog if she had taught it any new tricks, and she said yes. The woman told me she’d decided to do the adopted dog a favor and keep its old name. Thanks for writing and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
That goes for us humans too! Sometimes it’s fear of failure, or lacking confidence to take the first step to learn something new. Once we get over those self-doubt hurdles, we can discover a whole new meaning to “Teach an old dog new tricks!!!”
Fear of being made fun of.
Grrr, little kids making fun of each other can span into adulthood, Sparkle! You know that old saying: Sticks and stones can break my bones, but names can never hurt me. True, but making fun of people can wound them. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Extreme shyness. Just have to try new things where there aren’t lots of other people around to stare or make comments.
I pray that you emerge from your shyness, Tina. One baby step at a time. The truth is, most of the people around you are also worried about looking silly or making a mistake. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
Kate, I took the plunge to get my Associates Degree when I was 56! very scary to go back to school surrounded by a bunch of 19 year olds!!!! But I made with much pride. As for others or olders learning it all depends on their desire to learn ex. after my Dad retired he wanted a computer but my mom said nope don’t need one so he never got one, but my Dad was a very curious person and I think he would of had a blast. Now my Mom, she was a “if its not broken why fix it” and cordless phones and remotes were a terrible idea for her – and many headaches for me and the cable guy and my husband!!!! You have a very Blessed day.
Congratulations on your degree, Connie! The nice thing about going to school with 19-year-olds is that you don’t worry about how you look. They are the ones who are nervous and looking for a date … As far as TVs go, I finally bought my mom a color TV because my dad preferred black-and-white. Yet, he was a brilliant man and highly educated. Thanks for your fun comment and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I’m sure one could learn in their old age if they have the convenience in themselves. But that’s my problem, I’ve always wanted to play a piano, but now being fifty, I don’t think I could do it.
You could only do it if you signed up for lessons and practiced, Melissa! Fifty will seem young when you’re seventy or eighty. Thanks for entering the giveaway and good luck!
Kate
I think people might lack the confidence as they get older to learn something new. They probably figure that they have gone this long without knowing how to do something, why learn something new?
The table topper is gorgeous! Thank you for the chance to win it along with a copy of your book
Thanks for writing, Diane! It is a shame that many older people are afraid to learn how to use the computer, when in fact they would get so much use out of it. My 90-year-old mother-in-law insists on writing letters by hand and she does have beautiful handwriting … Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I think trying something new is a little scary and maybe someone will make fun on you if you do it wrong. I just love the beautiful table topper. Thanks for the chance to win. I also love your books. Have a blessed day.
Isn’t it amazing that even as adults we are worried about what other people think of us, Debbie? For the most part, I gave up trying to be perfect and stopped caring. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I went back to school at the age of 42. So, yes you can teach an old dog new tricks. As far as any crafting…not so much. I no patience.
Oh, how cool, Linda! Good for you. As far as crafting goes, not everyone has to be good at everything. I never could learn how to ice skate worth a hoot, among other things. Thanks for your uplifting comment and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
Please enter me in contest
My pleasure, Patricia!
Kate
Very beautiful quilt
Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway, Patricia!
Kate
I am one of those old dogs. 🙂 I have seen many older people go back to school or start a new hobby. I believe fear is the biggest obstacle. My biggest problem, I think, is laziness. I am very comfortable in my life right now.
That table topper is gorgeous. Thanks for the opportunity to try to win it and one of your great books.
If you’re comfortable with your life, then you’re in great shape, Pat! Thanks for writing and I’m wishing you good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Sometimes it can be fear of failure.
I think you’ve hit the nail on the head, Marietta! I can’t imagine a person on earth who doesn’t harbor some fear of failure. When it becomes paralyzing, a problem arises. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I am a creature of habit….I always say if I can see the devil coming I can fight him and win, its when I dont see it coming that I fall into fear. Hope I win but good luck to everyone.
You have an interesting take on things, Betty! Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I am am ol’ dog but I like trying a FEW new things. I love these table sets like you made. Beautiful. Love reading as well. I wrote 1 fiction book myself.
Good for you for being open to new things, Sharon! And for writing a fiction book. My first book sat for a long time … But then inspiration and determination sprang to life again. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I have the fear of failing. I am not an extreme people person, shyness is my downfall. I have learned plenty of new hobbies and have pressed myself to learn new skills. In fact I learned I am pretty handy using most woodshop tools. Skill saws, drills, table saws, etc. Got an idea for doing something in the house and needed to switch out a couple light fixtures, did them! But I have to admit I did use Google and YouTube for gaining knowledge.
Quite impressive, Chrissy! Many women (and some men) shy away from woodworking tools and changing lighting fixtures. You have accomplished much. My older son swapped out his brakes after watching a YouTube video, and I use YouTube also for learning all sorts of things. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Would love to learn to quilt, but life gets in the way. Take care of my 95 year old Dad and right now I have a rotator cuff and bicep tendon tear. Maybe when life slows down. Would love to win it’s beautiful.
Taking care of your father while you are injured has got to be a challenge, Sandy! Also makes sewing harder, but you never know when life was slow down enough for you to learn to quilt. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
You sure can teach an old dog new tricks. Ten years ago I didn’t know how to turn on a computer but I had to learn how to do a monthly calendar for the senior centers where I worked. Believe me it wasn’t easy but I was very determined to learn. I was very proud of my accomplishment at the time.
I am also an avid reader.
And that table topper would look great on my table.
Thanks for the chance to enter.
My first challenge with a computer was at a job too, Pauline! I’m sure glad I can use one for all source of things, including writing manuscripts and having fun on my blog and Facebook. Wonderful that you are an avid reader. Thanks for entering the giveaway and good luck!
Kate
I would love to learn to make a quilt. I don’t have anyone to help me and with my husband who is self employed being off so much with his heart. I can’t afford to take a class.
I wonder if there are quilting instructions on YouTube, Susan. Or books at the library … or a dear neighbor who would be thrilled with a visit? I bet if you googled, you would find instructions on quilting. Just a thought. In the meantime, good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
For me I think learning something knew is always exciting and scary. My husband and I have move 2 times from coast to coast and each time has brought change and learning something knew. So for me I am embrace the opportunity. Thanks.
Moving coast-to-coast twice would be both exciting and scary, Tina! I am always amazed at the frightening movies my husband enjoys watching and can fall right asleep after without nightmares. So, a little scary and the adrenaline that comes with it must be invigorating. Sort of like skydiving? So great that you embrace new opportunities! Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I have always been successful at learning new things and even at 65 I still learn new skills frequently. The Internet has so much info, especially detailed instructions & video available that I can usually find out how to do anything I want to do.
Beautiful table topper!
Excellent, Pamela! I wonder if you’ve had a lifetime of curiosity and interest in learning new skills. An excellent attitude. I also make good use of the Internet, even tips on how to navagate Facebook, etc. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I love quilting and am excited to try new techniques. It amazes me what I can find on YouTube to instruct. I find I am more likely to try something in the privacy of my home, than seek instruction elsewhere. I’ve even done a few home repairs & remodeling projects.
So looking forward to reading your new book!
Thanks for your encouraging comment, Donna! As I said above, our son has amazed me on the techniques of repairing his car on YouTube. Of course, not all YouTube videos are of the same caliber. I can’t wait for you to read my new book! Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
An Old Dog here!!! I am always willing to try a new way, possibly the new way is or could be better than the old way. I am not opposed to at least giving it a try! i would certainly like to think teaching an Old Dog a new trick or two is not hard, we just have to adjust our minds to accept change and that with new ideas come easier tasks for us to do or complete.
I love your attitude, Linda! Good for you that you are not opposed to giving new ways a try. When I see people walking their puppies in the neighborhood and not making them mind or learn obedience, I shudder, because someday that old dog will be unruly and jumping on people … better not get going on one of my pet peeves. Thanks so much for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I’m still kind of a young dog but would love to learn an old dog tricks
Oh, I love your attitude Cherie! Older people contain a wealth of knowledge and are often not appreciated. Thanks for your fun comment and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
Learning something new is scary and exciting. I’m trying to get past the “age” thing and continue learning new things.
I’m sure you will get past the “age” thing, Syble! I feel the same way. Well, maybe not learning gymnastics, but I couldn’t do that when I was young either. In the arena of technology, many teenagers know more than I do, but that does not make them wiser. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I think for me it’s not wanting to put the time into learning something new! Always been this way for me, boredom sets in. That however is not true when it comes to reading. I love to get lost in a good book. Thanks for the opportunity to win. You have the best giveaways.
Thanks for your encouraging comment, Linda! As an author, it’s fun to hear you love reading most. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I have taught my 89 yr old Mom how to use a kindle and facebook to see her grandchildren and great grandchildren. We can increase the font size so she can read.
Wonderful, Lora! I wish all older people would give computers a try, just for those reasons. Congratulations to your mom! Thanks for entering the giveaway and good luck!
Kate
I think an old dog can learn new tricks, but today society in general is so wrapped up in technology (smart phones, kindles, I pads etc.) that many people miss the chance to try new and exciting things that don’t revolve around it. I still love to try new crafts and sewing projects and curling up with a good book to read.
So true, Joy! Crafts, music, art, speaking to a friend, taking a walk, trying a new recipe … none of these require technology. Some of my family and friends are flabbergasted that I don’t want to text. I would much rather chat with them on the phone if possible. Thanks for leaving your comment and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I would love to win the table runner. Thank you. Maggie
Thanks for visiting my blog and entering the giveaway, Maggie!
Kate
I love learning new things. I still wish to learn to make a quilt. TY for the chance.
I hope you do learn how to quilt, Lucy! As with all new skills, take one step at a time. Thanks for leaving a comment at entering the giveaway!
Kate
This “old dog” has learned a lot of things I never expected that I would or perhaps could do. This week I prepared 30 webinars to be put online shortly. It was a skill that I just learned prior to doing it. And I have finished in record time. I have to say I am happy that I did it and happier that I didn’t have to have too much help to get the job done. 🙂
Wow, very impressive, Sonja! My husband gives webinars often and I love it because it means less travel time for him, and he reaches more people. 30 Webinars in record time is amazing. Congratulations! Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I think what holds me back is my insecurities and my fear of being around a group of people.I just have always felt I am not good enough.I love your books Kate!
I’m here to tell you that you ARE good enough, Jackie! Many highly educated and wealthy people are not all that hot, and self-absorbed too. In God’s eyes you are precious. Good luck in the Giveaway!
Kate
I’m always up to learning new things! Have a blessed day.
Excellent, Lori! Wishing you good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I find that as I get older,it is harder for me to focus,or concentrate. Added to that,I need to do something over and over,to ‘get it’. But with success,comes pleasure in my accomplishment.
Here’s my theory, Connie. As the years have passed we have been bombarded with more and more information, and need to learn more to keep up with techie teenagers. Doing things over and over is what’s necessary for younger people too, although some of them seem to get it right away. (not in all areas) Good for you for sticking to projects and enjoying the pleasure that accompanies accomplishments. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate