The key to training your dog to go from using the bathroom on a pile of papers in your apartment, to holding it in and using an outdoor spot, takes a little common sense and some outdoor etiquette.
Going from the papers to the outside means you need to carry your puppy to the right area. As discussed previously, small puppies are easy to carry outside but you may need a carrier of sorts for bigger dogs or if you are not strong enough.
Once you have finally carried your loaded puppy outside without an international incident and all you see before you are blocks and blocks of concrete, where should you go?
Of course it should go without saying that all areas frequented by people, including flower beds, children's play area, city trees and other landscaping are all off limits. Letting a male dog lift his leg on somebody's garbage can or other things that might not be touched by humans is not very nice.
Just be prepared to spend some time training your puppy to potty outdoors on busy streets. A fearful puppy won't be relaxed enough to want to potty. The puppy can be so distracted by all the stimuli that he won't want to go outside.
But, will your puppy ever learn to go on concrete amid the commotion of people and cars? With a bit of training, yes.
One method for outdoor potty sessions is called “curbing”. This means that your dog eliminates over the curb into the gutter. Position your puppy's rear end over the curb and let him fire away. Praise the pup quietly and calmly while he's going, and praise exuberantly immediately after the act.
Note: If you praise too much during the act, your puppy will get distracted and wriggly – not a good combination in mid-elimination.
When there is a mistake, don't panic, just work on it next time. Smile at people, and pick up after your dog. Don't drag the pup over in mid-poop and scold him for going in the wrong place. Instead, get him to the right place next time. Make it a habit and praise him; the dog will catch on.
Life will be easier if you teach your pup to potty on cue. Once he's about to start urinating or defecating, calmly say the cue words and praise your pup. After he's done, praise him once again abundantly.
Speak Your Mind
You must be logged in to post a comment.