How to Potty-Train a Miniature Schnauzer

Potty training a Miniature Schnauzer puppy is a simple process. If not done correctly, however, the potty training could take months or even years to fully accomplish. The best way to train a Miniature Schnauzer to eliminate in a designated outdoor area is to follow the crate training method. During training the puppy is kept inside the crate for the majority of the time to reduce accidents. This establishes clear boundaries between approved elimination areas and unapproved areas for the young puppy.

Things You'll Need

  • Crate
  • Exercise pen
  • Room with doggy door
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Create a confined area, such as a crate, exercise pen or doggy door leading to a fenced outdoor area, to train the Miniature Schnauzer. Once you decide on which method you will use, continue with that method until the dog is completely trained. Changing training methods midway through training will confuse the dog and make it resist complete training.

    • 2

      Introduce the crate or pen to the dog. Place a small dog treat inside the pen. Allow the dog to travel in and out of the pen for a few minutes. Every time the dog enters the pen, say the word "crate" or "pen" or whatever word you want to associate with the crate so that the dog learns the word.

    • 3

      Praise the dog every time it enters the crate. Do not praise the dog when it comes out. Close the door for a few seconds after the dog has entered and exited several times. Over the next few days practice allowing the dog into the crate with a chew toy. Increase the duration of the time the dog is in the crate and your distance from the crate.

    • 4

      Take the dog to the preferred outdoor elimination area after a period of 10 or 15 minutes in the crate. Do not play with the Schnauzer, but allow it to conduct its business in peace. Praise the dog if it goes in the correct spot. If no elimination occurs, return the dog to the crate. Take it out again in a few minutes and repeat the process. Continue to repeat the process until the dog finally goes in the correct spot.

    • 5

      Continue to leave the dog inside the crate until it is completely toilet-trained. When the dog whines, take it out to conduct its business and then return the puppy to the crate after some mild praise. Potty training should be complete in just a few weeks with this method.