You can teach an old dog new tricks and according to one local trainer, that applies just as much to owners as it does to their pets.
Katherine Vooys, owner of The Crunchy Canine, says many people want to include their dogs in everyday activities like patio visits or shopping trips, but underestimate the work involved. She explains that dogs need to be taught how to navigate the human world.
“It’s not natural for a dog to walk on leash or ignore distractions,” Vooys said. “We have to start with the foundations.”
Those basics include loose-leash walking, ignoring distractions, and good manners like not jumping or barking at others. Vooys says simple commands such as sit, stay, and come are especially important—not just for behaviour, but for safety.
“A solid recall could literally save your dog’s life,” she said.
Vooys adds that training is as much about the owner as the dog. She estimates about 70 per cent of the work falls on the human, who must practice skills outside of class.
The Crunchy Canine offers group obedience classes and private in-home training, helping owners address both basic skills and more specific behaviour challenges.
Norfolk Today sat down with Vooys in studio and you can here the full interview here:
