Successfully housebreaking a puppy involves several stages, and the next crucial step after initial training is teaching your pup to communicate their need to go outside. This article will guide you through the process of encouraging your puppy to “ask” to go out every time, building upon the foundational protocols you’ve already established. It’s vital to ensure your puppy has mastered the basics of house training before introducing these advanced techniques. Skipping steps can lead to setbacks and prolong the overall training timeline.
The Goal of This Training Phase
The primary objective of this phase is to foster the understanding that your puppy needs to signal when they need to relieve themselves. We achieve this by using a slightly ajar door, creating a situation where your puppy realizes they need your assistance to fully exit and access the outdoors. This method motivates them to actively seek your help.
An Add-On Procedure, Not a New Ritual
This technique is designed to be implemented during times when your puppy is under your direct supervision indoors. Ensure that your puppy has access to the door you consistently use for their potty breaks.
Letting Your Pup Smell the Outside
During this transitional training period, keep the designated door slightly ajar. This should be open just enough for your puppy to catch scents from the outside without being able to exit independently. For sliding patio doors, this is straightforward; simply open the door an inch or so. For standard swinging doors, an old-fashioned wedge-style stopper can be effective. Some owners have found success using a security door chain, which allows the door to be cracked open while still providing a security measure. Alternatively, security bolts can be installed in sliding doors to achieve the same effect without compromising security.
Encouraging “Going Outside” When Your Pup Smells the Outside Air
Initiate your established “going outside ritual” whenever your puppy begins to sniff the air through the partially open door. Start by asking, “Do you want to go outside?” as they investigate the opening. Pause for a few seconds to a minute, waiting for a clear signal from your puppy. Responses can vary, including whining, a soft bark, or pawing at the door. If you notice your puppy moving away from the door and intently sniffing the floor indoors, you may need to prompt them to go to the door. Once you guide them to the partially open door, wait for their signal indicating they want you to open it fully. Have their leash ready to ensure a prompt exit to the designated potty area. It’s important to supervise these trips, keeping them on leash, rather than allowing them to roam freely in the yard unsupervised.
Using Bells for Communication
For those using hanging bells as a communication method, the procedure is quite similar. Once at the partially open door, wait until your puppy’s sniffing causes the bells to jingle. As soon as they ring the bells, praise them, offer a treat, and open the door. Remember to have these bells consistently hanging and jingling every time you take your puppy outside during the initial phase of training.
Encouraging Only Bathroom Trips Outside
During this specific training period, it is crucial to reserve the “outside” ritual solely for bathroom breaks. Avoid mixing “business with pleasure” by taking your puppy out for a potty break and then immediately engaging in extended play in the same area. This distinction is vital for solidifying the “ask to go out” skill. When your puppy signals they need to go outside, ensure they understand this is exclusively for relieving themselves. After they have finished, return inside, and then, if desired, engage in a separate play session outdoors.
HINT: When you are planning to go outside for play or a walk, use a different phrase than “Do you want to go ‘outside’?” or whatever phrase you are consistently using to announce, “This is a bathroom trip!”
NOTE: It is perfectly acceptable and even encouraged for your puppy to eliminate outdoors while playing or on a walk. The sole purpose of explicitly separating the “bathroom” ritual from play and walk routines is to reinforce the prompt “do you want to go outside” and the skill of “asking” to go out.
Hopefully, this guidance helps. Enjoy this next stage of training – you are nearly there.
By the way, here are some articles on my blog you might also find useful:
House Breaking 101
Crate Training 101
Your Puppy’s First Couple of Weeks: Tips to Make the Transition Easier
Best of luck with all your puppy training!
