Animal Training And Consulting

How to Litter Train Your Dog

With the increase in popularity of small breed dog ownership litter training is no longer just for cats. People who love dogs and their companionship no longer have to forgo dog ownership due to time and space constraints. Litter training for small breed dogs provides convenient option for potty breaks for urban high-rise dwellers. City living is often inconvenient for dog owners. The lack of green space and pet size requirements limit the size and space available for dogs to roam and play. People are compensating for this by litter training their tiny pooch pals. While this might seem unnatural at first, it is quite possible with the proper equipment and patient training.

To get started simply purchase a standard cat litter box large enough for your dog to move around in and you are on your way. If you have a male dog who tends to lift his leg consider an enclosed litter box to prevent overshoot and spillage. Dogs tend to eat things so avoid using cat litter with your puppy. Pet superstores sell a variety of dog litter products made of non-toxic paper pellets that control odor, will not harm your pet and that are made from recycled consumer materials. Once you have the materials it is time to get started on the road to a litter trained pooch by following these steps:

1. Introduce your puppy to the litter box slowly. Gradually introducing your puppy to new experiences typically works better than sudden changes and litter training is no exception. Allowing your dog time to explore by himself is important. Dogs need to smell, taste and touch things on their own terms to get accustomed to new things. You can eventually place him in the box, but he should be able to explore on his own terms first.  

2. Be consistent in your feeding routine. Leaving food out in the dog bowl all day might be a convenient option; however, it is not best for your dog. Try giving two meals a day to create a regular routine. This will allow for a regular potty routine. Allow your puppy 20 minutes to eat and then place him immediately in his new litter box. Puppies typically need to eliminate a few minutes after eating so be patient and wait after meal time for your puppy to use his box. Administer a treat and praise immediately thereafter. If done consistently, this will help you time his potty habits, making it easier for you to litter train the dog.

3. Set up the puppy litter box in a comfortable spot. Puppy litter is used similarly to kitty litter. It reduces the smell, gives the dog a secure place to go potty without being disturbed and allows him to have a spot where he knows he can go without getting in trouble.

4. Keep a close watch on the puppy. Puppies will typically sniff the ground or turn in small circles before he eliminates. Be on the lookout for these signs when litter training. As soon as you see elimination hints, calmly and quietly pick up your pup and place him in his litter box. When he eliminates lavish him with treats and praise. Left unattended, your puppy will have more accidents and begin to learn to eliminate in other places.

5. Keep the litter box clean. Your puppy will be more inclined to use his box if it is kept clean and fresh. You might also consider periodically replacing the litter pan as they do absorb odors over time.

Litter training is just like outdoor potty training, the more consistent and patient you are the faster your dog will pick it up. Many people who use dog training collars forget the key tip of consistency. It is even more important to use your vocal training and allow the system to backup your voice. While, some dogs are faster learners than others, but be patient because he will eventually learn. Once your dog is properly litter trained you will no longer have to worry about a midnight potty runs outside or late afternoon accidents when you are running late for work. While potty time is taken car of using this system it is important to remember that even the smallest dogs will need outdoor exercise and playtime.