Simple Ways to Potty Train Your Dog

 

Every dog lover knows dogs can enrich their lives, hence earning the title of man’s best friend. However, among the least favorite tasks associated with dog ownership is cleaning up after them. Thankfully, there are a number of different options available to help make this process as simple and painless as possible. By effectively training your dog from the start, you can spend more time enjoying your pet’s company and less time worrying about the next accident that may occur.

Training Aids

Dog training aids are available in a number of different forms to help assist in the housebreaking process. One popular method is the use of puppy pads, which may be placed wherever you choose to have the pet relieve itself. Owners should place the pet on the puppy pad in intervals, using the keyword “potty” to associate the act. Over time, dogs will develop better control of their bladders and longer intervals may be allowed between reinforcement. Eventually, through rewarding the use of the pad and providing negative tones or expressions otherwise, the dog will learn to relieve itself on the pad.

Another device that can work well for potty training is the use of a bell. The bell should be tied to a ribbon and then tied to a door knob or handle. Each time you take the dog outside, simply tap the bell and use a single keyword to be repeated each time. Eventually, the dog should begin to tap the bell itself to let you know it needs to go outside.

Pet Doors

There are many different methods to consider in how to potty train a dog. One way of encouraging your pet to go outside is through the use of a pet door. This allows the dog to enter the yard whenever it needs to, even when the owner is not home. Most choose to have a professional install their pet doors, to make sure that it fits snugly wherever it is placed and that it is a proper height for the pet. Experts can also work with the pet to make sure it is comfortable using the door. In addition, residents may choose to leave a small amount of the dog’s waste in an appropriate place outside, which will encourage the pet to use this area to relieve itself in the future. The designated area should be at a far distance from where the dog sleeps or plays to prove successful.

Dog Litter Box

A dog litter box is another tool that may work well for potty training, especially for those who do not have a yard. Pick a room and area for the litter box, preferably one with a hard surface, as this will make cleaning up any accidents easier. Keep the dog as near as possible to the litter box during training so that you may place your pet inside the box if you discover it going anywhere else. An owner may also choose to soak a paper towel with the dog’s urine and place it in the litter box, to encourage the pet to smell the area and be more likely to use it in the future. Positive praise will encourage your dog to use the litter box on its own. Respond with distain when it does not. Note that dogs prefer the litter box to remain clean. Be sure to remove waste from the litter box after use, as this will make the pet more likely to use it repeatedly. Grated models are available in order to keep the box user friendly over time, as well as facilitate with easier removal of waste.

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