How to Potty Train My Doberman Pinscher Puppy

The well-behaved dog begins with proper puppy training. One of the most important for both your dog and your home is successful potty or house training. Each breed of dog comes with its own particularly challenges, and these personality differences should be taken into account when you embark on this process. The Doberman Pinscher was recognized by the AKC in 1908, and this breed in the working class is an energetic and obedient dog that can be sensitive to its owner's pleasure or displeasure. More aggressive training techniques may actually stress out your puppy and work against your ultimate goals.

Things You'll Need

  • Puppy
  • Dog bed
  • Crate
  • Newspaper
  • Puppy pads
  • Outdoor potty place
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use either a washable dog bed or a crate to establish your dog's living space. Dogs have the natural instinct not to soil their den, so as you establish the dog's special spot, this will train the dog this is not the appropriate place to go potty. Doberman puppies can urinate in their sleep, however. This soils a cloth dog bed. In this case, having two of these types of beds can help your dog keep its special spot dry and clean while you wash the soiled material of the other.

    • 2

      Establish a "potty" spot near the bed. The smaller the puppy, the smaller the bladder. Make this a spot with easy access for when the urge strikes. Doberman puppies can potty almost as soon as they eat. Use either extra newspaper or puppy pads, which have an absorbent layer to protect your floor.

    • 3

      Pay attention to your dog's elimination schedule. Typically puppies void after extensive play or after they have eaten. Establish a pattern and place your dog on the appropriate potty spot to show them where they need to go before they even need to eliminate. Keep this schedule even when your dog doesn't void. This will teach your Doberman puppy when to go.

    • 4

      Pay attention to your puppy's cues. Like most breeds, Doberman puppies will demonstrate a certain behavior when they are about to potty. This includes spinning in circles or sniffing the floor for a place to go. Direct your dog immediately to its appropriate void spot. Use the "no" command in a firm voice to establish it as unacceptable behavior if you catch your puppy mid-squat in an inappropriate spot.

    • 5

      Use positive reinforcement. Always praise your dog lavishly when it does what you want it to do. Pushing your Doberman's nose into its own mess and scolding it can create undue stress that may impede your house training process by creating more messes. Provide the praise and encouragement your Doberman seeks instead.

    • 6

      Create a spot outside for your dog to void. Once your puppy recognizes that the paper or puppy pad is the appropriate place to go, you can move these papers closer and closer to your outside door. This will train your Doberman that such behavior is acceptable outside the home. Use the command "outside" as verbal reinforcement.

    • 7

      Watch your male Doberman puppy closely around six to nine months of age as it approaches puberty, as the instinct will kick in to mark its territory. This behavior is its way of claiming all the things--and people--it holds dear. Direct it to the appropriate place using the "outside" command the minute it lifts its leg to urinate.