One of the biggest issues people face when adding a dog/puppy to their family is potty training. The last thing you want is for your new family member to ruin the carpet because he/she isn’t housebroken. When it comes to potty training your dog there are definite do’s and don’ts. Approaching potty training in the wrong way will only make it more difficult for you and your dog. These are some tips to help get you through the process of potty training your dog.
Do set a schedule:
One of the quickest ways to get your dog/puppy in the habit of using the potty outside is to set a strict schedule. Taking your dog outside when you wake up in the morning, before you leave for the day, when you return home, after feedings, and before bed, is a great start to potty training. Being consistent with walking your dog will help prevent indoor accidents.
Do provide an indoor potty area:
Even though the goal may be to get your dog 100% housebroken, you should still provide a place indoors for your dog to relieve itself inside. Teaching your dog that it’s allowed to potty in this area shouldn’t delay your potty training efforts. Instead, it will provide you and your dog with a little leeway in your schedule. For example, if you have to work overtime or there is a traffic jam and you will be late coming home, your dog will still need to go potty. Having a place inside where your dog knows it’s okay to go potty will help prevent accidents on the carpet.
Don’t rub their nose in it:
For years people have been told to rub their dog’s nose in potty accidents. This is terrible advice and does nothing, except make your dog dirty and cause anxiety for both you and your dog. The fact is, your dog will not understand why you’re doing this, he/she will not connect poo on their nose with not using the potty in the house. The best thing you can do if you catch your dog in the act is to scoop him/her up and take them to their potty area.
Don’t limit food and water:
Some people think if they limit their dog’s food and/or water it will help keep them from having potty accidents. True or not, this is a terrible idea. Your dog should be fed a set amount of food determined by its veterinarian every day. Also, your dog should always have fresh, clean, and cool water to drink.
Don’t hit:
You shouldn’t ever hit your dog for having an accident in the house or for any other reason. Not only is hitting your dog inexcusable, but he/she will not understand why you are hitting them. The only thing you will accomplish is making your dog fear you and you will crush his/her spirits in the process.
If you are consistent with your walks and you work hard, your dog will be potty trained in no time. Don’t stress you or your dog out trying to rush the process. Your dog will get the hang of it, and in the meantime you can use the long walks as bonding time for you and your dog.
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