Dogs are cute. That’s a fact. Do you know what’s not cute? Pet stains, scattered around your home. So, does this mean that you can’t have a puppy and a clean house? Of course not. The secret is to learn how to potty train your dog — let’s discover the five best ways to do so.
1. Create a potty Routine
You might know that babies thrive on routine, but perhaps you didn’t know that the same is true for puppies. You’re not sure how to achieve this with your furry baby? Then read on!
To start potty training your dog, create a routine, and try to stick to it as much as possible. A routine will help your dog understand when it’s time to eat, play, or go for a pee or a poop.
2. Use a Cue for Potty Time
Cues are key elements of all routines. A great way to potty train your dog is to create a cue for potty time. Essentially, you want your puppy to signal when they need to go potty by inviting them to go outside. You can either use a bell or teach them to bark when they want to signal this.
Soon they will start associating going outdoors with going potty and will let you know when they are ready to do so by using the cue that you taught them.
3. Pick a Potty Area
Whether you want your puppy to go potty in a set part of your yard, or at a nearby park, you should pick a specific potty area and be consistent with it. Take your dog to the potty area and wait for them to do their business.
When they do so, follow up with praise or a treat. If they don’t, take them back indoors and try to repeat the process until it works.
4. Try a Crate for on-the-Go Potty Training
What if your dog needs to go potty when you’re out and about, and far from your chosen potty spot? Crates are a great option for on-the-go potty training. Pick one that’s the right size for your dog, and teach them that it’s a nice, clean, safe place for them.
When they need to go potty, they will let you know by scratching and signaling that they want to go out. At that point, let them out of the crate and lead them to the potty area to relieve themselves.
5. Be patient
So you followed all the tips and tried all the tricks, but are still struggling with potty training your dog? As with anything, remember to be patient.
Each dog is an individual with their own needs, habits, and personality, and yours might just need a bit more time and encouragement. Trust us, they’ll get there in the end!
The Lowdown on How to Potty Train Your Dog
Enjoying lots of adorable puppy cuddles in a clean, mess-free home will finally be possible now that you know how to potty train your dog. Why don’t you start now?
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