3 Effective Tips For Potty Training Your Dog
3 Simple & Effective Tips For Potty Training | Dog Training
Potty training your dog can be a challenge, but it's essential for a harmonious home life. Here are three effective strategies to improve your potty training routine, making the journey smoother for both you and your furry friend.
If you are struggling with getting your puppy (or adult dog) to go to the bathroom outside, there are some easy things you can do to encourage them to potty outside.
Here area a few ideas:
1. Get Moving With Jogging
Sometimes, dogs need a little encouragement to do their business. If you've noticed that your pup seems to hold it in, jogging might be the answer. Dogs have unique signals when they need to go. Common tells include sniffing, circling, or arching their back. If your dog hunches, it’s often a sign they need to poop but can't quite get started.
A short jog—just 15 or 20 seconds—is sometimes enough to kick-start their bodily functions. This brief burst of movement can help your dog relax and not feel like there is an expectation they are going to do something or that you are frustrated with them not going potty.
You can literally jog back and forth in front of your house. You don’t have to have a lot of space. Once you've done 1 to 3 short burst of jogging for 15-20 seconds, return to a grassy area; your dog is likely to go within 30 seconds.
2. Use a Longer Leash
A longer leash can be a game-changer for dogs with shy bladders. Most owners use a standard six-foot leash, but consider extending it to 15 feet. This gives your pup the freedom to find their perfect spot without feeling your presence as pressure. A longer leash offers them a sense of space, which can be crucial for dogs who feel confined by a shorter one. This method helps keep your dog focused on the task instead of getting distracted by nearby smells and sights.
3. Know When to Stand Still and When to Move
Choosing the right spot is crucial. When you take your dog outside, designate a specific area for them to use. Consistency helps them associate this spot with going to the bathroom. Stand still in this area, giving your dog a six-foot radius to explore. Limiting the space reduces their search time for the right spot.
However, some dogs don't take the hint and may sit or lie down instead of sniffing around. If your pup isn't engaging their nose or is inactive, it's time to get moving. Encourage them a verbal "go potty" or give a gentle tug on the leash. Walk around to activate their nose and inspire them to sniff, which is often the precursor to doing their business. A little movement can trigger that nose-to-ground action necessary for finding the perfect spot.
Once your dog’s nose is engaged you can stop again to limit their available space.
Conclusion
These three strategies—jogging for bodily movement, using a longer leash, and knowing when to move—can make a big difference in your potty training efforts. Try these techniques to see what works best for your dog. Each pup is unique, so finding the right combination is key. Let us know which of these tips helped you the most or if there’s one you hadn’t considered before. Here’s to successful potty training and a cleaner home!
If you want to see us putting these things to practice check out the video below.
Find more "How To" Dog Training Videos HERE:
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