Henry was eight years old when he came to Off Leash K9 Training Southwest Missouri for a two-week board and train. His people had heard the same thing everyone hears about older dogs, and decided to find out for themselves.

You can read Henry’s family’s full review on Google.

Where Henry Started

Henry’s owners were hesitant, and they have said so plainly: some folks might be reluctant about training an older dog. Eight years of habits is a real thing to weigh, and so is sending a senior dog to stay somewhere new.

Henry also came with a medical routine. He needed medicine while he was with us, and partway through his stay his vet changed it.

The Training Journey

Henry did our two-week board and train with trainer Breanna. His family describes the communication before, during and after as fantastic, with daily updates that included photos and video.

The medicine change was handled without drama. Breanna managed the switch smoothly, and Henry’s owners were quick to point out that she trained him well and also loved on him while he was away from home. For an older dog staying somewhere unfamiliar, that second part is not a nicety. It is the difference between a dog who learns and a dog who just endures the two weeks.

Henry’s Wins

Henry came home in a great state of mind: focused and confident.

His sit, down, come, place and heel are, in his owners’ words, dialed in. That is the full core command set an eight-year-old dog picked up in two weeks.

Henry, an eight-year-old dog with a gray muzzle, lying calmly on his bed at home after board and train in Springfield, MO

What It Changed at Home

His family called it a great investment even at his age, and described the training as life-changing and life-improving for both the dog and the people.

Henry had years of good living ahead of him. Those years are simply easier now, for him and for them.

Why This Story Matters

“He’s too old to train” is the most expensive myth in dog ownership, and Henry is the answer Off Leash K9 Training Southwest Missouri gives to it. Older dogs can be easier to train than puppies, because they settle sooner and are less easily distracted.

Age also does not rule out a dog with medical needs. If your dog is on medication, tell us, and we will build it into the stay the way we did for Henry.

Ready to Start With Your Own Dog?

Whatever your dog’s age, start with a conversation. Every program and price is listed on our plans and pricing page, and payment plans are available. Call us today to learn more about payment options and to tell us about your dog.