Can you teach an old dog new tricks?

[paulapoo]

Otis is 3 and has a few behavior "issues" ( i refuse to say "problems" because he's perfect, you know). When I first brought him home, I wasn't in a position financially to take him to puppy class. Now he's 3 and I think I could probably afford it. Here's my question..... Is it fair to him to take him now, at age 3, and try to change things that have been acceptable all his life. Here are his behavior issue's.

1. Doesn't come when it's time to come inside if he's outside playing. Note, he is getting better about this as he gets older, but it's still usually on HIS terms.
2. If he gets on a scent or chases a bird, I do not exist.
3. He is most un-cooperative during grooming and nail clipping time.

These are not terrible things, I make sure he is ALWAYS in a fenced in area. He escaped about 3 times in the first year I had him. Now I am a total freak about him not getting loose. I hasn't happened in 2 years. Now, I will not leave him with anyone, nor do I trust anyone to come let him out because of door and gate issue's. I'm convinced that noone will pay as much attention as they need to and the worst will happen. Mommy's a little anxiety ridden about the whole situation. All it would take is someone to not latch the gate and my baby could be gone!!!!!! I just can't take a chance. Does anyone think training classes will help him at age 3?

[diggy4]

I teach you stuff all the time dont I?? lol JUST KIDDIN I think you can....Classes as I have read are for dogs of all ages.

[paulapoo]

Originally Posted by diggy4

I teach you stuff all the time dont I?? lol JUST KIDDIN I think you can....Classes as I have read are for dogs of all ages.

I will IM you with my response to this as it will not be appropriate for YT... I am only 1 month older than you.

[diggy4]

too funny