3 Myths About Salt Lake City Rescue Dogs That Are Holding You Back (And The Truth)
Are you considering adopting a rescue dog in Salt Lake City? Or perhaps you’ve already welcomed one into your home? If so, you’ve likely heard plenty of “advice” about what to expect.
Unfortunately, many rescue dog owners are told things that simply aren’t true. These myths can prevent you from helping your dog reach their full potential and enjoying the amazing bond you deserve.
Myth #1: “Rescue dogs are too damaged to fully train.”
This is perhaps the most harmful myth about rescue dogs, and one I hear constantly around Salt Lake City dog parks and adoption events.
THE TRUTH: Rescue dogs have incredible capacity for learning and growth, regardless of their past.
Even dogs who have experienced neglect, abandonment, or lived in shelters can develop into well-behaved, confident companions. Their brains remain adaptable throughout their lives–they just need the right approach and consistent training. In fact, many Utah rescue dogs seem especially eager to please their new families once they feel secure. It’s as if they appreciate the second chance and want to make the most of it!
With proper training that focuses on building trust and clear communication, your rescue dog can overcome past traumas and thrive in their new life with you.
Myth #2: “Rescue dogs can’t learn new things.”
Many potential adopters in Salt Lake City pass by wonderful adult dogs because they believe they’re “too old” to train.
THE TRUTH: Dogs can learn new behaviors at ANY age!
The old saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” couldn’t be further from reality. Adult and senior dogs often learn more quickly than puppies because they have longer attention spans and more self-control.
I’ve worked with:
10-year-old rescue dogs who mastered basic commands in days
8-year-old “stubborn” dogs who quickly understood house training
Senior dogs who learned to walk politely on leash after years of pulling
The key is using methods that make sense to them, breaking training into manageable steps, and staying consistent with your expectations.
Myth #3: “Bad behaviors will go away on their own.”
Many Salt Lake City rescue organizations and well-meaning friends tell adopters to “just give it time” when faced with challenging behaviors.
THE TRUTH: Without proper training, problem behaviors almost always get WORSE with time, not better.
When we hope a problem will solve itself, we’re usually just allowing the behavior to become more deeply ingrained. Each time your dog practices jumping, barking, or pulling, they’re strengthening those habits.
Instead of waiting:
Start with basic training immediately (even the day you bring them home)
Address concerning behaviors proactively with positive methods
Consider working with one of our professional trainers who specialize in training adopted shelter dogs Salt Lake
Early intervention prevents small issues from becoming major problems. And even long-standing behaviors can be changed with the right approach.
The Potential in Every Rescue Dog
Here in Salt Lake City, we’re fortunate to have several wonderful rescue organizations bringing deserving dogs and loving families together. These dogs come with so much potential just waiting to be unlocked.
With clear communication and consistent boundaries your rescue dog can become:
A calm, confident companion at home
A joy to walk through Liberty Park or the Bonneville Shoreline Trail
A well-mannered friend when you visit dog-friendly patios downtown
A trusted family member who enriches your life every day
Getting Started With Your Rescue Dog
If you’re ready to help your Salt Lake City rescue reach their full potential:
Start training immediately. Don’t wait for them to “settle in” before beginning basic training. Structure actually helps them adjust faster.
Focus on building trust. Many rescue dogs need to learn that humans are predictable and safe before they can truly thrive.
Use positive, clear methods. Reward what you like, redirect what you don’t. Corrections will inevitably be needed but get advice from one of our professional trainers before correcting your dog. Correcting in the wrong way or correcting too soon can damage trust.
Be patient but consistent. Your rescue dog might need time to understand new expectations, but consistency helps them learn faster.
Consider professional guidance. Working with a trainer who understands training adopted shelter dogs in Salt Lake can accelerate your progress dramatically.
Remember: Your rescue dog isn’t defined by their past. With your help, they can overcome previous challenges and become an amazing companion.
Every day, rescue dogs throughout Salt Lake City are proving the myths wrong. Your dog can too.
Looking for personalized help with your rescue dog? Book your free evaluation for training an adopted shelter dog in Salt Lake today!
