Accidents happen. How to get your dog accident free as quickly as possible?
The three P's of toilet training your dog are
- Patience
- Persistence
- Praise
Patience
Toilet training doesn't happen overnight. Getting cross with your puppy if they have an accident, won't help. It may actually make matters worse. So don't give up. If they have an accident, take them outside immediately and clean it up without making a fuss.
If you can't managed over night. Reward their business on a mat. We like the washable ones
Learn the signals. If you dog gets up a little aggitated, or whines take them out. Let them let you know when they need it.
Persistance
Puppies have small bladders. They need frequent wee breaks. In the first few weeks (or until they get it) set an alarm. Take them out every two hours (yes even in the middle of the night if you can manage to!). Don't take them in again until they have done something.
Find somewhere boring to stand, and wait there until they do the business. The rule is there is no fun until they've been
Praise
As soon as the have done their business praise them. Over the top. Treats. Cuddles. Excited noise. Lots of Good Boy/Girl. Let them know that when they pee outside they are rockstar.
For number one's they will learn quickly. And if they have an accident it is no big deal. A quick wipe with an absorbent cloth and some anti-sceptic spray soon deals with it.
Number two's are a bit harder as they are less common. But apply the same techniques and they will learn the same way. Learn their schedule. Make sure you take them out in good time and wait until they are done. The most frequent time for accidents is when you decide maybe they don't need it and bring them back in.
Step 2 is the key.
How did you train your puppy? Pop any top tips in the comments below