Welcoming a new dog into your home is an exciting experience, but it can come with challenges, especially when dealing with house training. For many rescued dogs, the concept of “going” outside doesn’t come naturally. They’ve learned to eliminate in their living space, and re-teaching them this fundamental behavior requires patience, understanding, and a consistent approach. This guide will delve into the common hurdles and effective strategies for house training a dog who has already mastered the art of indoor pottying.
Understanding the Challenge: “I Learned to Potty Where I Live”
Dogs who eliminate indoors often aren’t lacking in basic intelligence or training; they’ve simply learned that their home is their designated bathroom. This is particularly common with rescued dogs who may have come from environments where outdoor potty breaks were not an option or were associated with negative experiences. The core issue isn’t a lack of knowing where to go, but rather a deeply ingrained habit tied to their perception of “home.”
Tootsie’s Story: A Case Study in Rescued Dog House Training
Tootsie, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel rescued from a northern Wisconsin puppy mill, exemplifies this challenge. Rescued from “horrendous conditions,” she lived on a filthy concrete pad, pumping out puppies despite serious health concerns. Her mouth was a cesspool of infection, and her ears were severely compromised. Years spent in an outdoor cage, however, meant she could observe people, smell fresh air, and hear sounds.
Her preferred potty spots? Inside the house and on the concrete slab where the car was parked. For Tootsie, “home” equaled “bathroom.” House training became job one from the moment she arrived. Knowing that dogs accustomed to eliminating indoors require dedicated effort, the initial days involved frequent trips outside – as often as every ten minutes. Positive reinforcement, in the form of chicken treats, was crucial. She quickly learned to control her bladder and eliminate outdoors. Recently, she reverted to peeing on the concrete, prompting a return to treat reinforcement. Within two weeks, she was back to using the driveway. This process highlights the importance of consistent reinforcement, even after initial success.
Why House Training is Crucial
House training problems can escalate beyond mere inconvenience, significantly impacting the human-animal bond. Constant accidents can lead to frustration, arguments between owners, and ultimately, the heartbreaking decision to return a beloved pet to a shelter. Successfully house training a dog is fundamental to maintaining a loving and harmonious relationship.
Key Strategies for House Training Success
If you’re facing the challenge of house training a dog who eliminates indoors, several critical strategies can help:
Constant Supervision: In the initial stages, your dog should be either on a leash with you, tethered to you, or confined to a small, easily cleanable space like a crate or an exercise pen (x-pen). This constant supervision allows you to interrupt accidents and immediately reward successful outdoor potty breaks. Avoid leaving a new dog unsupervised in a large area. For dogs unfamiliar with crates, introduce them gradually and positively.
Designated Potty Spot: Choose a specific outdoor location for your dog to eliminate. You can “season” this spot by placing a urine-soaked rag or feces there to help your dog recognize it as the designated area. Consider the substrate – some dogs have preferences for grass, dirt, or gravel. Ensure the spot is convenient for you, especially for those middle-of-the-night or rainy-day trips.
Frequent Outdoor Trips: Go outside much more often than most guides suggest. In the first few days, trips every 15 minutes are not excessive. While tiring, this consistent schedule significantly increases the chances of success and pays off in the long run.
Reinforce, Reinforce, Reinforce: Every successful outdoor potty break should be met with enthusiastic praise and a high-value reward, such as small pieces of chicken or liver. It’s crucial to determine what your dog finds most rewarding – some dogs prefer treats, while others respond best to praise, a favorite toy, or being allowed back inside.
Avoid Punishment: Punishment is generally ineffective and can create fear and anxiety, hindering the training process. The only exception is an “interrupter” if you catch your dog in the act of eliminating indoors. A gentle “Whoops!” and immediate transfer to the outdoor potty spot is sufficient.
Utilize Diapers: For persistent accidents, especially with male dogs who lift their legs, doggy diapers can be a lifesaver. They can help prevent accidents on carpets and may indirectly aid in house training by making indoor elimination less satisfying.
Thorough Cleanup: Dogs rely heavily on scent to identify their bathroom spots. It is essential to eliminate any trace of urine odor indoors. Use enzymatic cleaners specifically designed to break down urine molecules. Commercial products are highly effective, and some home remedies can also be beneficial.
Resources for Further Guidance
For those seeking more in-depth information, several resources are available:
“Way to Go!” Booklet: Co-authored by Karen London and Patricia McConnell, this concise booklet offers practical advice on house training.
Hard to House Train: Practical Solutions for Dog Trainers: Available from Dogwise, this comprehensive book provides extensive case studies and is a valuable reference for trainers dealing with difficult house training cases.
House training a dog who has learned to eliminate indoors is a journey that requires dedication and understanding. By implementing these strategies and celebrating every small success, you can help your canine companion learn to confidently “go” outside, strengthening your bond and creating a cleaner, happier home for everyone.
