Rescuing a dog comes with its own set of unique challenges. In this guide we share common training misconceptions, training tips, and more. Get started here.

So you recently rescued (or are thinking of rescuing) a dog. First, let us say, you are awesome! Thank you for giving a deserving shelter dog a loving home.

Second, we want you to understand that this is a huge transition. Bringing a dog into your home who possibly experienced a rough past can be a challenge – both for you and the dog. 

Bringing home and training a rescue dog is much different than bringing home a puppy. Not better or worse per se, just different. But it’s one of the most important things you can do, since training will strengthen the bond between you and your dog and ensure they are safe at all times.

This guide will help new and prospective rescue dog parents successfully bring their new dog into their family and raise them to be happy and healthy.

Before we get started, we wanted to take a few minutes to address some common myths about rescue dogs. 

It’s important we dispel these because myths often dissuade people from adopting rescue dogs who would actually make great additions to their families.

Here are three common myths about rescue dogs, and the truth behind them:

“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is one of the most overused cliches in the English language.

While it’s true that dogs are often most receptive to learning when they are puppies, dogs can absolutely learn new skills and behaviors in their adult years. It just may take more time, more repetitions, and more patience on your part. 

We’ll get more into specifics on training rescue dogs later, but just know that it’s definitely doable to train a dog in adulthood. 

Any time you hear a blanket statement about “all rescue dogs,” it’s likely false. Each one has a unique background and personality that shapes who they are.

Some rescue dogs have been put in previous situations that make them fearful, reactive, anxious, or shy around new people, animals, or even things/situations. This can impact behavior in a number of ways, but are not signs of “difficulty,” rather signs of trauma or abuse in previous environments.

On the other hand, some rescue dogs seamlessly integrate into new homes with no “issues” at all.

It’s important to view each rescue dog as the individual they are and not make generalized assumptions about them. Otherwise, you could be missing out on a dog who really could make the perfect addition to your family.

3. YOU WON’T BE ABLE TO BRING A RESCUE DOG INTO A FAMILY WITH CHILDREN OR OTHER ANIMALS

It’s a common misconception that if you have young children or animals in your home, you won’t be able to rescue a dog. 

In some cases, it’s in the best interest of the rescued dog to go to a home with no children or pets. But in other cases, there’s nothing stopping a family with kids or pets from rescuing a shelter dog.

Typically, a meet and greet will be arranged ahead of time to make sure everyone gets along before the adoption is official – but there is no hard and fast rule that you can’t bring ANY rescue dog into a family with children or other animals.

Now that we’ve cleared the air on that, we can move on to why we’re really here and get into everything you need to know about training a rescue dog. 

SETTING YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS WITH THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR TRAINING A RESCUE DOG

As soon as possible (ideally before you bring your dog home), get all the tools you’ll need to train your dog. That way you can be prepared to tackle anything at any time. That is important because you may not know what challenges your new dog will have until you bring them home.

A collapsible water bowl for training outside the home

Engaging toys (like a flirt pole) and chews for decompressing

These tools will make it much easier to set your dog up for success throughout the training process.

TRAINING APPROACHES FOR ADULT AND RESCUE DOGS

Even though your dog may not be a puppy, everything is still new to them in this environment. Have patience and go slowly, knowing you may have to spend a lot of time building trust and getting to know how your dog learns best. 

Remember, some rescue dogs have never had any formal training. They may need to learn the very basics like a puppy would, but with already established habits that might make it more challenging.

You may be tempted to get your dog to “catch up” to other adult dogs, but throwing too much at them at once can leave them overwhelmed and confused. Start with the basics and master one skill before moving on to the next.

As you’re still getting to know your dog and becoming more confident in your relationship, you’ll find yourself having to pivot in a lot of situations. 

For example, if you planned on working on leash walking in the park, but you notice your dog is getting very stressed in the presence of other dogs, you’ll want to remove them from the stressful situation and work on something else. Side note: if that is too distracting of an environment at first, practice walking on leash in your house, then around your house, before working up to more distracting environments. 

We want to set our dogs up for as many wins as possible and have a positive association with training. Making sure you end sessions on a high note and not let your dog get too tired or overwhelmed will help them stay more engaged with training sessions.

We can’t lie – sometimes training a rescue dog (or any dog) can be frustrating. But if you show your frustration through your body language and energy, your dog will pick up on it and do the same.

Instead, find even small behaviors to reward often, and keep smiling and speaking kindly towards your dog. They want to do the right thing and make you happy – they just might still be learning what that really means. 

Remember, you don’t have to tackle the training journey alone. There are great resources out there that exist just for this reason. 

If you’re looking for additional guidance, The Pupford Academy is full of expert-led training videos and resources on a wide range of topics, from basics like crate training through advanced trick training.

But remember, if you sense that your dog has come from a background of abuse or neglect, and/or if you’re noticing behaviors that pose a safety risk, be sure to reach out to a local certified trainer for one on one help.

Rescuing a dog is a beautiful thing – but it does come with its own set of challenges when it comes to training. But with the right tools, resources, and community by your side, you can accomplish great things together.

If you’ve rescued a dog before, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to do the same? Let us know in the comments! 

Dog Parent Guide to Training A Rescue Dog | Pupford