When my client Paula tried to get her 12-year-old Golden Retriever Max into the car for a vet appointment, she thought the new ramp would make things easier. Instead, Max took one look at the unfamiliar object, walked around it, and attempted his usual jump – which ended in a painful stumble. Frustrated and worried, Paula wondered why her usually cooperative companion was so resistant to something meant to help him.
I hear this story, or something similar, quite often. Well-meaning owners purchase tools like ramps or steps, expecting their dogs to instantly understand how these can help them. Unfortunately, this often leads to resistance, stress, and potentially dangerous situations. There is a better way to approach this challenge, and it starts with the concept of “keeping Pavlov on your shoulder.” What do I mean by that? Let me explain.
Common challenges with senior dogs and tools
As dogs age, their physical fitness usually changes, just like for us. Arthritis, reduced muscle mass and strength, and decreased flexibility can make activities that used to be easy – like jumping into the car -much harder. We recognize these changes and invest in tools like ramps or steps. However, it’s not just about providing the right tools – it’s also about helping our dogs feel safe and comfortable using them.
We often assume this will be easy and try to coax the dog directly onto the new ramp or step. This typically happens in situations where there is some time pressure, such as just before a vet appointment or a car ride. This urgency, combined with a dog’s often occurring natural wariness of new objects, can quickly lead to an outcome that’s very different from what we had in mind. When the dog refuses to use the tool or avoids it, we tend to become anxious and frustrated. This can create a negative spiral that only makes the situation worse.
Pavlov’s theory: the Science behind positive dog training
To understand why your dog’s emotions during training are so important, let’s briefly revisit the work of Ivan Pavlov. As many of you may know, Pavlov was a Russian physiologist who made groundbreaking discoveries about how animals learn. While studying the digestive system of dogs, Pavlov observed that his test dogs not only salivated when given food but also when they saw the person who usually fed them or heard associated sounds.
This observation led to the discovery of classical conditioning – the process by which animals (including humans) learn to associate one thing with another. In Pavlov’s famous experiments, dogs learned to associate the sound of a bell with food, eventually drooling at the sound of the bell even before any food appeared. This fundamental principle of learning isn’t just about food and bells; it applies to everything our dogs experience, including new objects and situations.
Training senior dogs: the emotional approach
When we say “keeping Pavlov on your shoulder,” we mean that it’s crucial to consider the emotional associations our dogs form during training. Every experience a dog has with a new object or situation creates connections in their brain – either positive or negative. These associations are not only about whether they perform a behavior but also about how they feel about the entire situation.
Take using a ramp to get into the car as an example. Your dog isn’t just learning to walk up the ramp; they’re also forming an emotional reaction to the ramp itself, the location where they encounter it, and the overall experience of using it. If these associations are negative – due to stress, pressure, or discomfort – training will become much harder, no matter how many high value treats you offer in the moment.
How to train your senior dog to use a ramp: step-by-step guide
Start away from the car
Instead of introducing the ramp directly at the car, begin in a neutral, quiet location like the backyard or garage. Place the ramp flat on the ground or at a very slight incline. This removes the pressure of “having to” use it and allows your dog to explore it at their own pace.
Create positive associations
Before asking your dog to do anything with the ramp, let them observe it while you place high-value treats on and around it. Don’t force interaction – let them realize that good things happen near this new object. The key is to let them decide whether to approach it or not, without luring them. Sometimes, you may need to spend several days or even weeks on this step, and that’s perfectly fine! Your dog sets the pace and decides when they’re comfortable with this new thing.
Gradual progression
Once your dog is comfortable approaching the ramp, start rewarding any interaction they initiate – sniffing, getting closer, or touching it. Small steps forward deserve praise and treats. Gradually shape their behavior toward walking across the ramp by rewarding getting closer, placing a paw on it, etc.
Build confidence
When your dog is comfortable with the ramp in its initial position, gradually increase the incline over multiple sessions. Continue to make each interaction positive and successful. Remember: confidence builds on success, so avoid pushing too fast. Keep it light and fun!
Training tips: building confidence with new tools
Patience and timing
The process of creating positive associations can take weeks, but this is often essential for long-term success. Pay close attention to your dog’s body language – signs of stress or avoidance mean you need to make things easier or slow down.
Choose suitable training locations
Always start training new skills in quiet, familiar environments where your dog feels safe. Environmental stress can interfere with learning and make it harder for your dog to build a positive association with the ramp.
Read your dog’s signals
Watch for subtle signs of discomfort or anxiety, such as lip licking, looking away, or a tense posture. These are ways your dog communicates that they’re not ready to proceed. Respecting these signals builds trust and prevents negative associations.
Set realistic expectations
Understanding that this process takes time helps prevent frustration. Especially if you’ve tried before and it didn’t go well, rebuilding trust will take time. Each dog progresses at their own pace, influenced by factors such as age, prior experiences, and individual personality.
Success with older dogs and mobility: long-term benefits
When we “keep Pavlov on our shoulder,” we remind ourselves that our dogs’ emotional responses to training are just as important as their physical abilities. This mindset can transform introducing a new tool from a potentially stressful experience into an opportunity to build trust and confidence. While it may take more time, the result is a dog who can confidently and safely use a tool.
Your senior dog’s hesitation about new tools isn’t stubbornness – it’s a natural response to change and uncertainty. By taking the time to build positive associations and considering their emotions, you foster collaboration and trust. And that’s what we all want!
The next time you’re introducing your dog to something new, whether it’s a ramp, steps, or another tool, try to remember to “keep Pavlov on your shoulder.” How your dog feels about the experience matters, and by taking the time to make those feelings positive, you’ll achieve better and more lasting results. And everyone will be happier for it – your dog, and you too! ♥
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