Separating the Dog's Area From the Play Area in the Backyard

Dogs are social creatures and love being part of a "pack family." They expect us to love, lead and instruct them. One of our first duties in training a dog is to show him when and where to go to the bathroom. Training him to go in one section of your backyard is good pack leadership. Families with small children have additional responsibilities. Although dogs view small children as puppies and will be tolerant of innocent tail pulling, it is best to have separate backyard play areas.

Things You'll Need

  • Expandable walk-through pet gate with pet door
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your dog on leash and take him outside. Walk him to one designated corner of your yard. Walk the boundaries of the area with the dog walking by your foot. Walk slowly, giving him time to sniff the area. Do this for 5 to 10 minutes before returning to your house.

    • 2

      Watch your dog for signs that he needs to use the bathroom. These will include sniffing the floor, chasing his tail and sitting or scratching at the door. Dogs typically need to use the bathroom soon after eating. Also, take your dog out when he wakes up and before crating him for the night.

    • 3

      Attach the leash and escort him to his designated area. Give the leash enough slack to reach his bathroom perimeter. Repeat a vocal command, such as "quickly, quickly."

    • 4

      Praise your dog when he is finished. Lead him back into the house.

    • 5

      Place the pet gate in the dog's designated section. For a permanent installation, use a hammer and nails to attach the gate to your fence. When unlocked, the pet door allows your dog to enter and leave his designated area. The gate is available at most large pet store chains. Both your children and your dog can play in the backyard in their own designated areas.