Toilet training is an often overlooked part of caring responsibly for your dog, but it is extremely important that you know how to house train your new forever friend properly.
Whether you are training a puppy or adult dog, the stages will be the same, however it may take longer to support an adult dog with toilet training. It is also important to note that dogs don’t have full bladder capacity until they are around 12 months of age, so you must be patient if your new pet is still a pup!
Top tips!
When you begin toilet training, you need to give your dog plenty of opportunities to go to the toilet in an appropriate place. Take them out when they wake up, after every meal, after playtime, before bed, before you leave them and when you come back, and then every 45 minutes.
When you recognise the signs that your dog is thinking about toileting:
- Take them to the correct place so that you can reward them when they go. Try to take them to the same place each time.
- When they begin to toilet, use a verbal cue they can associate with the correct behaviour eg. ‘toilet’.
- When they’ve finished, reward them immediately, every time, with lots of praise, treats and play.
- Before going back inside, walk your dog around or play for a bit. This way they don’t learn that going to the toilet ends time outside, which could mean that they hold onto the last minute before going.
- If you notice your dog about to go in the wrong place, interrupt them but in a way that doesn’t punish them, e.g. calling their name. Take them calmly towards the correct place and give them lots of praise when they toilet there. Don’t shout, otherwise your dog may learn that it’s only safe to go when you’re not around.
What to do if there's an accident
Never punish your dog if you find an accident after the event or as it is happening. Your dog may become scared and confused, as they won’t associate the punishment with the accident.
Instead, simply clean the area using a warm solution of biological washing powder and rinse with water. This should remove the smell and reduce the chance of your dog revisiting the area. You should then continue to take your dog outside, and reward them with lots of praise when they go.
Remember, there are different reasons for toileting indoors (e.g. health issues, lacking of training, or separation anxiety) so always seek advice from your vet if you are concerned.
Take at look at the National RSPCA advice page for further information.
