Potty training or house training a new dog can be challenging. Young puppies just can’t hold it a very long time, dogs from shelters could be used to having accidents or be traumatized and dogs from pet stores can be used to going in their crates. Lets take a look at some steps to help eliminate accidents and completely potty train our dogs.
- Take your dog out the same door every time. This builds a routine and your dog will start going to this area when they need to go.
- If you see any circling or sniffing, take your dog outside. Circling and sniffing are signs your dog has to go.
- Develop a cue. Say something like “go potty” when you see your dog circling or sniffing outside, reward them with praise and sometimes food after they have went to the bathroom.
- Get on a feeding schedule. Allow your dog access to food for 15 minutes. If they do not eat pick up the food and feed them at their next meal time. This is important for multiple reasons but for house training purposes it gives you a good idea when they are full. If you free feed all day you will never know when your dog has to go.
- Take your dog out within 10 minutes after eating, drinking, sleeping and playing. Dogs are just like people, all of these activities can trigger going to the bathroom
- Limit food and water before bed. the amount of time depends on your dog. start with no food or water 3 hours before bed as they improve give them access to water a little longer.
- When you can not pay attention to your dog, use a dog crate. Dog crates simulate your dogs den instinct. Dogs will be more likely to hold it if they are in close proximity to their own waste. An appropriate sized dog crate is just big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around. If your crate is too big your dog will still eliminate in it.
- Clean up any accidents with an enzymatic cleaner. Enzymatic cleaners destroy odors and prevent your dog from going in the same place again.
- Have your dog tethered to you or dragging a leash around the house. This will help you keep an eye on your dog and also help establish your leadership role.
- If you catch your dog in the act say “no” and immediately bring them outside. If your dog is marking or really struggling with potty training you can correct them in the moment. I’d use an electronic collar for this.
If you follow these steps your dog will be potty trained in no time.
For more information contact Wagging Rights dog training at 847-682-2116
