Dog Potty Training Tricks for Stubborn Dogs

You may think your four-legged friend has finally been fully housebroken, but then he'll surprise you with another "accident" on the carpet. This behavior is frustrating, but it is possible to correct it, even if your dog seems stubborn. Stubborn dogs often need only a little more encouraging and correcting before they learn to relieve themselves by going outside.

  1. Is the Dog Old Enough?

    • Before determining that your dog is stubborn, think first about how old she is. Dogs that are younger than 8 weeks old are not ready to be housebroken. They cannot follow your commands in this way. Even if your dog is somewhat older than 8 weeks, puppies in general are excitable, and they may simply relieve themselves wherever they are if they see something that interests them. You can tell your puppy "No" when she does this to help her realize that her actions are not appreciated.

    Feeding and Water

    • If you feed or give your dog water right before you go to bed and confine the dog inside for the night, he will likely have to go to the bathroom. The dog may not be doing this because he is stubborn, but because he doesn't have a choice. Eliminate this factor by feeding the dog early in the evening, and removing the food and water dish before you go to bed.

    Clean the Soiled Areas

    • Dogs have an incredible sense of smell. If you don't manage to thoroughly clean the area she has soiled, she will be able to smell it. This serves as a cue for the dog to return there and do the same thing again. Clean the soiled area as soon as you discover the mess. Pick up or soak up the mess with several layers of thick paper towels, and then scrub the floor with hot water and soap. You may need to use a commercial pet odor neutralizer to get the scent out fully. A sprinkle of baking soda and a spray of vinegar may be enough to get rid of the smell.

    Correcting the Behavior

    • If you discover a mess in your house, don't attempt to yell at the dog or shove his nose in it. This will only confuse him because he does not even remember going to the restroom, even if it happened several minutes beforehand. It is only appropriate to discipline the dog when you actually see him relieving himself indoors. If you see this, firmly and loudly say "No!" and take the dog outside immediately. This helps him associate the outdoors with going to the bathroom. If he continues going to the bathroom while outside, praise him by saying "Yes, good dog," and offering a treat.

    Put the Dog Outside

    • If the weather is nice and comfortable, set up a wide pen for your dog to stay in. In the pen, place the dog's food and water dishes, as well as a few toys. Dogs don't like to relieve themselves in the same place where they eat, so when they need to use the restroom, they will probably let you know. This teaches the dog to communicate when he needs to be let out. However, don't leave the dog in the pen all day, and take him in if it gets cold or rainy.