Is it time you told your dog where to go?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How on earth would a dog know where he’s ‘not’ supposed to poop?

Dogs don’t actually like to relieve themselves in their bed or den so anywhere outside that area is probably ok to them but it’s not for you. We’ve blogged previously about the value of crate-training your dog. To him, outside the den might include the hallway, your bedroom or anywhere which is not his bed or crate.

This is why it’s so important to teach your dog know where he should ‘go’. If only dogs could read our minds. Oh yes, and our partners…if only they could read our minds too.

Provide an area –

Nominate a place in the yard, and then you can take him right there at time intervals, wait until he goes and then praise and reward him immediately. You can take him on a leash so he doesn’t have the entire yard to choose from. It’s easier to train a dog what ‘to do’ than what ‘not to do’. Gradually as training progresses and he is capable of ‘holding it’ for longer because of his age you will be impressed with him. Interruptions to your rest time now will save you many hours cleaning up after your dog down the track.

Provide a reason to go there –

A decent stream or a number 2 in the correct place deserves reward & praise. Don’t interrupt the process, just wait until he’s done and be poised ready to treat him.

Dogs and puppies alike should be taken out shortly after eating, drinking, playing and after waking to relieve themselves. Sometimes it might take up to half an hour for a dog to have a motion after food. Having a house lead on your pup (whilst supervising) gives you the chance to get him outside quickly if you see if pre-elimination signs. Making those outdoors trips with your dog preferably through the same door, will help cement his learning. Before long he’ll be letting you know when he’s ready to go out.

Punishing a dog for a ‘whoopsy’ is scary and futile. Puppies take time to control their bladders. Ongoing problems may mean there is a medical reason your dog is not able to hold it.

Leah & Angela O’Meara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)