If you've adopted an older dog from a shelter, it can be difficult to train them, although it isn't impossible. Your newly adopted dog may have some other issues going on, such as trust issues or abandonment issues. If your dog has these issues, training is going to take some time. As such, here are some tips on what you can do to train your dog.

Be Patient

You are going to need to be patient with your new dog. They may be grateful to be out of the shelter, but they likely have no idea if you are going to give them up or abandon them too. Your dog is going to need time to adjust, and during this time, don't push too hard to train your dog. Give them the time they need to adjust to their new surroundings and family, including others that you invite to your home. This time that your dog needs can be short or extended, depending on the dog and their situation. Give your dog time and be patient.

Curb Certain Behaviors Early

If your dog is a jumper, curb this behavior now. Just because your dog had been in a shelter doesn't mean they can do things that you wouldn't typically allow. Be sure to fix these behaviors now because changing them later can be very difficult to do. If you don't want your dog on the couch or on your bed, don't allow it. Show your dog exactly where and what they can do, and keep to this. Give your dog a stern "no" when they do anything that you don't want them to do.

Get On A Routine

Your dog needs a routine and you need to try your best to keep to it. Getting your dog on a specific routine can aid in training, and can also help them if they have trust issues. Start taking your dog for a walk around your neighborhood to show them around your neighborhood and to help them get used to being on a leash. If your dog is not that great on a leash, you can start by just walking them around a fenced yard, then move to an unfenced area. Stop and make your dog sit from time to time. Use the same commands when you have them on the leash so they can become familiar with them. 

If you have an older dog that you have rescued from a shelter that needs training, you can begin doing some training at home. If you have additional issues with training, take them to a dog obedience class to help learn how to train your new addition to your family. Contact a company that offers dog obedience lessons for more information.