re: Is it possible to teach an 'old' dog new tricks?

Use a small treat and repeat the sitting and shaking of the paw. He will get it. Push his butt down. Take his paw. All while saying the commands. He can do it! After two years of watching our dog drag my wife around by the leash, I took him for a nice long walk, made him walk even with me, stay when we stopped, and wait for me to walk in the door first before he goes in. He is my bitch now.