House Training for Old Dogs

The often-used cliché, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks" is simply not true. Dogs are an intelligent species and are perfectly capable of learning new information even in their senior years. If you have recently adopted an older dog, you may find that she is not housebroken, probably a result of having never lived indoors. Patience and consistency are key elements in house training a dog of any age.

  1. Crate Training

    • Most puppies respond well to crate training because it appeals to a dog's den-dwelling instincts. However, the concept may be foreign to an older dog. In most cases, the dog will soon adapt to the crate and view it as a safe, private nest.
      To create an inviting atmosphere, place the crate in a quiet, dim area of the house. Line it with soft blankets or old towels and place favorite toys inside. Coax the dog into the crate with a treat; never force the dog inside or use the crate for punishment.
      The crate is a house-training tool because dogs will not soil their "den." They learn to wait until you take them to their designated toileting area. This is particularly useful for dog owners who work and cannot be home to housetrain during the day.
      Do not leave an elderly dog in the crate for more than three or four hours at a time. Older dogs may suffer from incontinence or weak bladders. Consider hiring a dog walker or sitter or enrolling your dog in a canine daycare if your schedule keeps you away from the house for most of the day.

    Going Outdoors

    • Take your dog outside on a leash every 10 to 15 minutes. As soon as she eliminates, praise her and reward her with a treat. Develop verbal cues, such as "outside," to help her create appropriate associations.
      Most dogs will select a spot to use consistently as a toileting area. Once your dog chooses this spot, bring her directly to this area every time you take her outside.
      Keep in mind that for the first day or two in a new environment, many dogs do not eliminate due to stress. This is normal and usually not a cause for concern. However, if your dog is drinking water but has not urinated in a 24-hour period or goes more than 48 hours without defecating, talk to your veterinarian.

    Indoor Options

    • Dog owners living in apartments or those with small dogs may choose to train their dog to use an indoor toileting area. These options include "piddle pads," grass boxes and litter boxes. Clean or replace indoor toileting areas frequently.
      Train a dog to use the indoor area using the same methods as outdoor training. Direct your dog to the desired area and praise or reward successful elimination.

    Accidents

    • Accidents in the house are a normal part of housetraining a dog of any age. Never yell, hit or otherwise punish a dog for having an accident, and do not rub her face in the mess. Remember that dogs do not speak our language and do not instantly know our rules.
      If you catch your dog in the act of toileting in an inappropriate area, use a firm verbal cue such as "no" and immediately redirect her to her approved area. Praise and reward her if she finishes her business there.
      If you find a puddle or pile, it is too late for correction. Clean the mess thoroughly and use an odor-eliminating product to discourage the dog from using that area again.

    Training Aids

    • Some dog owners use "clicker training" as part of the reward process. An audible click signals that the dog has done something good and a reward is forthcoming. You can purchase a hand-held clicker or make the noise yourself. As soon as the dog eliminates in the designated area, click and then present a treat or praise.
      You can also use a method called "bell training." Hang bells on the door and teach your dog to ring the bells when she needs to go outside.
      Keep plenty of treats on hand for the housetraining process. If you need additional help with training, there are hundreds of books, DVDs and online tutorials covering all aspects of housetraining your dog.