Tips for Toilet Training a Dog

Toilet training, house training, potty training---whatever way you say it, it's necessary when it comes to cohabiting with dogs. Fortunately, most dogs respond to the process quite well and are easy to train. All you need is a little patience, persistence and repetition, and you are on your way to a dog that eliminates outdoors.

  1. Crate Training

    • Crate training is a commonly practiced method in which to house train a dog. Crate training works with a dog's natural instincts of not wanting to eliminate where it eats or rests; therefore, if a dog spends time in its crate, it will likely not relieve itself when inside. The trick is to keep the dog in a crate that is just its size; that is, only big enough for the pooch to stand up, turn around and lie down in. Any bigger and the dog will be able to walk away from its waste, totally defeating the purpose of crate training. Place your dog in the crate when you are not at home, sleeping or cannot provide supervision for your dog.

    Establish a Routine

    • Dogs are creatures of habit and thrive when in a routine, and the process of toilet training is no exception. If you create a potty routine with your dog, it will better understand the concept of toilet training. Taking your dog outside at the same times every day will help it learn just how long it has to hold it before it can relieve itself. Always take your dog outside immediately once you have released it from the crate. In addition, most dogs need to "go" before and after they sleep and sometimes after they eat and play. As you become familiar with your dog, you will begin to sense when it has to eliminate. For instance, a typical routine is taking the dog out when it wakes up; before you place it in the crate and go to work; halfway in-between the time you leave and come home from work, if necessary; when you come from work; after dinner; and before you go to bed. You may also need to let the dog out in the middle of the night, as well.

    Praise, Praise, Praise

    • Dogs respond well to praise, as it lets them know they've done a good job and also gives them something to work for. Therefore, offering praise and reward is an integral aspect of toilet training. When your dog eliminates outside, give it a special treat that you only give in this instance. Try lunch meat, peanut butter, liverwurst---anything that your dog really likes. Only giving your pooch the special reward at this time will encourage it to really work hard to achieve that treat. After it goes, say "good dog" and give it the treat, then pet it and give affection.