You Can Train Rescue Dogs

Assuming all rescued dogs are unable to learn is hogwash. Recently, a friend asked if a rescue dog with a history I cannot disclose is easier to adopt. Hmm good question. Before I could chime in, I was alarmed at many misguided recommendations by well meaning individuals.

Then I became angry. What about all the wonderful dogs found wandering the streets? They have no known history, so are they not adoptable? Plus, many dog owners limit their rescue dog’s abilities and talents due to their dog’s past.

Whoa, let’s chat about this very emotional topic. As always, I have an opinion.

Can Your Dog’s Past Haunt Him?

Yes, I believe it can.

During dog training class, many of my dog training clients brokenheartedly shared: “My rescue dog was severely mistreated, so he’s unable to (fill in the blank).” My eyes widened every time and then I replied as delicately as possible, “Don’t allow your dog’s past to haunt him. He can learn anything. It just takes some skill from me and you.”

Dogs are extraordinary creatures–so complex and so forgiving. They’ve proven time after time–even after living in deplorable conditions–they bloom into darling companions when placed in a safe, trusting and rewarding environment.

Many years ago, I was part of a rescue effort to remove a Rottweiler that had been tied to a tree all his life surrounded by dead and decaying goats as his only food source. This dog had every excuse to hate mankind. He was treated horribly. But as we approached, I could see his face softening and kindness pouring from behind his eyes. Once cleaned and fattened up, he was adopted by a lovely couple that immediately began teaching him polite manners, and eventually became a therapy dog. Yup, if someone judged his past, he would’ve never left the shelter.

Now, past bite histories can linger and some should. Before condemning a dog, experts need more information before assuming anything. Who did he bite, where and why? Many times, a dog’s past is so diluted. These answers are essentially worthless. They should never be discarded, but investigated.

RELATED: Adopting a Rescue Dog

What is the Dog Saying?

Instead of listening only to a dog’s past, it’s important to look at the dog’s current behavior in his new environment. What is his body language saying? Experts will expose him to different situations and watch his reactions and choices. This is the real test. Decisions are made after evaluations by experts.

Now, dear reader, I won’t fool you with promises of fairytale endings and pots of gold, as some dogs reveal themselves during evaluations and it’s not all roses and sunshine. When dangerous behaviors rear their ugly heads, it’s up to rescue experts to decide if these behaviors can be modified and if the dog can be safely placed in a home. Sometimes, hard decisions are made for the safety of people, dogs, communities and other pets (yes, mother nature can be cruel).

Back to my point: I think it’s unfair to deem dogs with unknown histories unadoptable. Always evaluate the dog first, and then make a decision.

Let It Go, Shake It Off

Recently, I saw a Saturday Night Live skit floating through several online communities and I’ll admit, I laughed. Dog owners were discussing their rescue dogs and trying to outdo each other’s rescue story. Trust me, I’m not giggling at the terrible situations dogs had to endure, but I am chuckling at dog owners claiming to have the worst rescue story. Why did this strike a cord, you may ask?

Because it happens every day. Someone is always trying to prove her dog was neglected more than another person’s dog. At first, when I heard this badge-of-honor banter, I was horrified and truly offended, but now I know. After many years of experience, it’s human nature. I just shake it off and listen to the true meaning that is they’ve opened their hearts to a dog in need.

This, my friends, is how a dog’s history can circle around and haunt him again. Don’t hold on to your dog’s painful past. Let it go and move forward by teaching your dog fun and new behaviors–the sky is the limit. Next time a friend says, “My rescue dog can’t do (fill in the blank) because he’s a rescue,” ask her to shake it off . 🙂

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