24/08/2024
PUPPY toilet training - how's it going for you and yours?
If you're at that early stage in the life of your fur baby, let us know how it's going in the comments below!
Meanwhile:
5 Common Problems People Encounter When Toilet Training a Puppy:
Toilet training a puppy can be one of the most challenging aspects of bringing a new dog into your home. While every puppy is different, there are several common problems that new pet owners often face. Understanding these issues can help you address them more effectively, leading to quicker and more successful training.
1. Inconsistent Routine
One of the biggest hurdles in toilet training is inconsistency in the training routine. Puppies thrive on routine, and if their schedule is erratic, it can confuse them. For example, if you take your puppy out at different times each day, they may not learn when it’s appropriate to go. Consistency in feeding, watering, and toilet breaks helps establish a pattern that your puppy can understand and follow.
Solution: Create a strict schedule for feeding, potty breaks, and playtime. Stick to this routine as closely as possible. Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, and before bedtime.
2. Lack of Supervision
Another common problem is a lack of supervision. Puppies need constant supervision during the early stages of toilet training to prevent accidents. If left alone for too long, they may relieve themselves indoors, and if this happens repeatedly, it can become a habit.
Solution: Always keep an eye on your puppy, especially during the first few weeks of training. If you can’t supervise, confine them to a small area or crate where they’re less likely to have an accident. This also helps them learn to hold it until you take them outside.
3. Punishing Mistakes
Many new puppy owners mistakenly believe that punishing their puppy for accidents will deter them from going inside the house. However, punishment can lead to fear and anxiety, which may worsen the problem. Puppies may associate the punishment with the act of relieving themselves, not where they did it, leading to more secretive behavior.
Solution: Focus on positive reinforcement rather than punishment. Praise and reward your puppy immediately when they go in the correct spot. If you catch them in the act of going indoors, calmly interrupt and take them outside, then praise them if they finish outside.
4. Infrequent Potty Breaks
Puppies have small bladders and need frequent opportunities to relieve themselves. Many new owners underestimate how often a young puppy needs to go out. Holding it for too long can lead to accidents indoors, and a lack of regular breaks can confuse the puppy about where they should go.
Solution: Take your puppy outside at least every two hours, and more frequently if they are very young. Pay attention to signs that they need to go, such as sniffing the ground, circling, or whining, and take them out immediately.
5. Improper Cleaning of Accidents
If your puppy has an accident indoors, failing to clean it up properly can lead to repeat offenses. Puppies are drawn to spots where they have relieved themselves before, and even a small amount of residue can attract them back to the same spot.
Solution: Clean up accidents thoroughly with an enzyme-based cleaner that eliminates the smell completely. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, as the smell can resemble urine and encourage the puppy to return to the spot.
Conclusion
Toilet training a puppy requires patience, consistency, and a positive approach. By understanding and addressing these common problems, you can make the process smoother and less stressful for both you and your puppy. Remember, every puppy learns at their own pace, so stay patient and persistent, and your puppy will eventually get the hang of it.
****If you'd like a super fast way to toilet train your Pup, with no more mornings, afternoons and nights cleaning up after them, just DM me and I'll message you right back :) ****
