Are you in the process of trying to potty train your pup? Read here for the most important do’s and don’ts of potty training your dog that are sure to help you.
Dogs naturally know how to pee and poop outside. Cleaning up after them is often the most significant obstacle a pet owner experiences in potty training. They love the outdoors and being outside.
Potty training is a great way to strengthen your relationship with your dog. Developing this together builds your connection together.
Training your dog is more like when and where to go potty. Learning the dos and don’ts is essential for a stress-free experience for you and the dog.
Read on to learn more about potty training your dog and the dos and don’ts of the process.
The Do’s of Potty Training Your Dog
Knowing potty training techniques is essential to becoming a responsible pet owner. Here are a few things to keep in mind while teaching your pup:
Establishing a Routine
Routine makes it easier for your pup to understand when it is time for him to go potty. Start by taking your puppy outside to the same spot at the exact times each day. Take him first thing in the morning, after meals, after he plays, and before bedtime.
Choosing the Right Type of Grass
Long, thick grass is not ideal because it can make it difficult for your dog to identify where it should and should not go. Short, hardy grasses are highly recommended as they help differentiate between the areas where you allow them to potty versus everywhere else they are not. Additionally, having a well-kept lawn can encourage your pup to go to more attractive places, preventing messes in other areas of your yard.
If you want the correct type of grass for potty training, view here for more.
Praising and Reinforcing Good Behavior
When your pup does something right, like eliminates in the correct spot, give them lots of verbal praise. This positive reinforcement method will help remind your dog what they should do next. Once your pup gets used to consistently going in the right spot, it will be less likely to make mistakes.
The Don’ts of Potty Training Your Dog
Training your dog is an essential activity. Here are the important things to be aware of that you should not do:
Not Taking Your Dog to the Veterinarian
If your dog shows any signs of illness or discomfort, it is imperative to take them to a vet as soon as possible. Doing so will help diagnose potential medical issues and provide a course of treatment necessary to get your pet back in good health. Furthermore, you can successfully train your pup with a vet’s medical advice.
Using Inappropriate Cleaning Products
It’s important to remember not to use inappropriate cleaning products. Using chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite can harm your pet. They cause respiratory distress, skin issues, and even vomiting.
Teaching Multiple Training Techniques Simultaneously
Remember to use only one training technique at a time, which will confuse and frustrate your pup. Instead, choose one method and stick to it. If your puppy isn’t responding to that one technique very well, try a different training technique.
Learn More About Potty Training
In conclusion, potty training can seem overwhelming, but following these dos and don’ts can lead to success. It takes patience, practice, reinforcement, and consistency, but your pup can learn quickly with these tips. Give your puppy the best chance of success by rewarding good behavior and never punishing them for accidents.
For more information, refer to our other blogs for more helpful tips.