Ihavebeen looking for an adult or senior dog because I'm 84 and really misshaving a dog. In the process of looking into the ins and outs I bought and read "Culture Clash" whicho gave me a whole new perspective of dog training. I was in the process of trying to arrange for my adopting a 6 year old goldenoodle retired mother when the breeder mentioned two problems she was concerned about. First the dog is akennel raised dog and has serious trouble doing her business other than at the end of the run, secondly but connected to the kennel bit She claimed the dog had a dominence problem. Thios ser me wondering how much does these breeders train their dogs. Any female will soon reach a non breeding age and what are they going to do with them. Shouldn't they get some training like socialization and basic stuff like come etc?
Is there some way other than asking them to be honest. I'd love to get a puppy andgo through puppy traing etc but at 84 ?

Having recently adopted a dog that had been kept exclusively in a kennel, I can tell you that it was the toughest dog I've ever trained. And she's a Collie. For the past 30 years I've been adopting Rotties and Rottie mixes, with most having been kept on a chain prior to me getting them. Dogs that live in kennels often have no socialization other than interacting with another dog through a fence.

You might want to check with a rescue organization. They often do some training with the dogs in their care, such as housebreaking and basic obedience commands. Keep in mind that some rescues are wonderful, and others are...well, less than wonderful.

Your local shelter might also be able to match you up with a dog that is already housebroken and trained.

Good luck to you! If I live long enough, I may be in your shoes one day. I can't imagine not having a dog in my life at any age.

I think Ann has given you great advice. I also think you should visit with a rescue or shelter to make sure you get a dog that will be a good match for you. You can also stop at Vet Clinics. They know all of the dogs and the families that they see. They may know about a dog that would be perfect for you.

To answer your questions:

Breeders seldom train their dogs. Since most of them only have the dogs for breeding, they dont care about them beyond that. When they reach a non breeding age they are usually given to someone else (like yourself) to give the training. But it is often a big job and most of these kinds of dogs end up in shelters or are put down.

Yes, they "Should" get some training and socialization. The basic stuff would be a huge plus, but until the laws are changed, or until breaders grow a concence I dont see it happening.

DONT GET ME WRONG, there are a lot of great breeders out there. Ann got Baloo from one, and I fould a great one when I got Chip years ago. You just need to do a lot of research before you buy.

There is no better way than to ask them to be honest. If they say that they work with the dogs, ask them to show you. If the dog doesn't listen, do any basic obediance, or is not used to a leash ... it has probably not been worked with.

Thank you for advice. I really remember this.