Be sure to take your dog out to 'pawty' in your designated area after he/she
has been sleeping, playing, or eating. These are the most likely times your dog will want to eliminate.
When first training, keep your dog in your sight at all times. Put him on a lead so he can
not leave the room you are in. Watch for signs that he needs to eliminate such as sniffing, circling, or other signs
that you recognize that your dog needs to 'pawty'. Take him out immediately. Give him praise when he goes in a
designated area.
Set a timer to remind you to take out your dog. Start out with hourly reminders. As your
dog starts getting the idea, set the timer for longer periods between trips outdoors.
If your dog does make a mistake, don't scold him. He will not understand what you are upset
with him for.
Use 'pawsitive' reenforcement. Take treats out to reward your dog when they eliminate in their
designated area and tell him or her "Good dog!" or "Good Potty!". The more excited you get the more he understands you
are pleased with what he has done.
Use "Pawty Pants" or "Pawty Panties". Many dogs understand that they aren't supposed to
wet in them and will wait to eliminate when they are removed. These dogs don't like the feeling of being 'wet'
so they will wait to 'pawty' outside so they don't get wet. This doesn't always work, especially with 'markers', so
the Pawty Pants might always be needed!
Another option is to use a crate. Dogs are a den animal and love having their own space.
Most dogs really love having a crate to call their own home. Crate training is a great way to control when your dog
will eliminate. MOST dogs will not eliminate in their sleeping quarters. Place your dog in his crate for short
periods of time. When you let him out, take him immediately to your designated "pawty" area. Reward him with a
treat when he eliminates. Give your dog a little attention, then return him to his crate. Repeat, lengthening
the time you leave him in his crate. As your dog gets older, or learns what he is expected to do, he will be able
to hold his bladder for longer periods. Just please try not to leave your dog in the crate all day. If you work
long hours and can not come home at lunch time, try to find a trusted neighbor, or a responsible teenager, to come let
your dog outside for a short break.
If you have difficulty getting your dog into a crate, try placing a reward just inside the crate.
Each time you place one in the crate, place it in a little further. Once your dog is getting the treat without hesitancy,
place a Kong (a rubber treat that you can put his favorite treat inside) inside of his crate. Close the door while
he enjoys his treat. Peanut butter inside of the Kong works great! They love the treat and it takes awhile
to lick it all up. This will help them realize good things go with the crate.
If all else fails, send your dog to a dog obedience class or behavioral specialist. They
can design a program special for you and you will soon have a pawsitively wonderful companion. A good basic dog obedience
class is a great way for you to bond with your dog and give you a good knowledge of basic dog training skills. I recommend
this for any dog owner that has never been to one!
