Ask any first time dog owner about the initial two months of raising a puppy, they will most likely tell you about the challenges of toilet training. Once you cross this hurdle, you won’t have to stress much about the rest of any aspects of puppy training. This is how important puppy toilet training actually is.
If you are a new dog parent, here are some highly effective puppy toilet training tips for creating excellent hygiene at home.
So let us get started,
1) Start Training as Early as Possible
The earlier you start training your puppy, the better it is. Also, as they are able to control their bowel movements only after 2 months of age, it is better to start training right after this age. To begin with, fix a specific time for bathroom breaks just like you do for their feeding and playtime. Dogs love having a routine and they learn quickly when they are consistent. Take your puppy outside the same spot everyday to let them do their business. They will identify the places faster if they are following a habit.
2) Use Reward Method
Nothing motivates a puppy more than a delicious dog treat. Praise and reward them each time they do their business in the designated spot. This acts as a positive cue for them and they are highly likely to do the same behaviour again. Avoid punishing them during accidents, as it can demoralise them and it will only hinder the training process.
3) Choose a Specific Potty Area For Dogs
Select a specific area outside your house for the dogs to do their business. Take your dogs daily to this area so that they can eliminate there by catching the scent. You can also use a command like “go potty”, while they reach your designated area. Dogs quickly associate command with action and it will quickly help you to toilet train them.
4) Try Crate Training
Dog crates can be immensely useful for first time dog owners for teaching potty training to puppies. Dogs don’t like to soil their living space and this is why a crate can be designated as a place for your dogs to do their business. Make sure that the crate you are choosing has enough space for your dogs to stand and turn around. Never use the crate as a means of punishment to your dogs.
5) Clean Accidents Quickly
Remember accidents can happen during toilet training as it is a part of the training process. When they occur, clean them immediately as lingering scent can force your puppy to their business at the same place. You may use a good scent remover to completely eliminate pet stains and the odour from the surfaces.
6) Monitor Water Intake
Regulating your puppy’s water intake can significantly help you to reduce the bathroom breaks of puppies. Try not to give them too much water one to two hours before bedtime. This plays a vital role in preventing nighttime accidents and making the whole toilet training process smoother.
In Brief
Toilet training of a puppy is an important part of their overall hygiene. With the help of above mentioned tips, you can raise a well-trained pup who will obey all your commands during toilet training. All you need to do is stay patient, and reward your fido each time they show good behaviour. Anything is possible with love.
