Toilet Training

Toilet training is an important topic for new puppy owners. This is no surprise. Nobody fancies wee and poop in their house. Common sense tells you that shouting or “rubbing their nose in it” is not the answer, but you may not know how to go about it. Don’t worry, here is how to make toilet training easy.

Little and often

Take your puppy out regularly as they cannot hold for very long. If your puppy has not gone for over 3 hours (daytime), unless they are asleep, it may be a good idea to take them outside. Early days, some people find it useful to set up an alarm on their mobile phone for 2 or 3 hours later, when their puppy has a wee.

Note that puppies often need a wee when waking up and after eating. Keep an eye on them as going to the door, smelling the floor or walking in circles can all be signs that a trip to the garden is needed.

To the last drop

Don’t be surprised if your puppy does not wee all in one go in the first few weeks at home. They sometimes empty their bladder over several attempts. So do not rush back inside as soon as your puppy relieves themselves. Give them a few more minutes.

Look who’s home!

Many puppies are not able to completely control themselves when they get excited. Basically, the “brakes” may not work too well at first. So expect a few accidents on occasions such as your return home or when you have visitors. To avoid this, keep arrivals low key. Ask guests not to go down to your puppy’s level straight away and to keep a calm voice.

Show your pup some love

Go outside with your puppy as much as you can so that you can praise them. Stay close so you can reward them with a treat as soon as they are finished. If you call your puppy to you, they may think you are rewarding them for their recall, not for relieving themselves outside. If you do not have a treat with you, just talk lovingly to your puppy and give them a big fuss.

Oopsies!

Some accidents are bound to happen. Stay calm, no need to get angry. You just need to make going outside more rewarding. Take your puppy in the garden in case there is more to come, giving you a chance to reward the behaviour you want.

Do not clean up the accident in front of your puppy and stay clear of cleaning products containing bleach as they may encourage dogs to use the same spot again. Specialists products from the pet shop or your veterinary practise will help get rid of any smell.

 

If you do not see progress after a few weeks, seek help from a professional who advocates positive reinforcement.