Potty Training
Potty training is an important part of owning a new puppy, and positive reinforcement is an effective and humane way to teach your pup the proper way to eliminate. Here are some steps to follow:
Create a schedule: Establishing a regular feeding and potty schedule will help your puppy learn when it's time to go outside. Puppies typically need to go potty after waking up, after eating, and after playing. We usually take a puppy going through potty training out every 30-45 minutes for the first 2 months or so.
Choose a designated potty area: Choose a specific spot outside where you want your puppy to go potty. Take your puppy to this spot every time you take them outside to eliminate. I recommend always taking your puppy out on a harness and leash, even if you have a fenced backyard. This will help your puppy from getting distracted and running off to play first.
Reward good behavior: When your puppy eliminates in the designated potty area, give them lots of praise, petting, and a small high-value treat as a reward. Positive reinforcement helps your puppy learn that eliminating in the right place is a good thing. I rotate different training treats to keep it interesting for my puppies, but my favorite training treat to use is Ziwi Peak air-dried dog food
Consistency is key: Be consistent in your training by always taking your puppy to the designated potty area, using a specific word or phrase to encourage them to eliminate, and rewarding them generously when they do so.
Supervise your puppy: Supervision is important during the potty training process. Keep a close eye on your puppy when they are inside, and take them outside frequently to avoid accidents. If you catch your puppy in the act of eliminating inside, interrupt them with a firm "no" and immediately take them outside to the designated potty area. If I need to get some chores done around the house and can’t fully supervise my puppy, I will let her rest in her secure playpen or I will attached her leash to my belt loop so she can not get out of my sight. Puppies do need plenty of sleep (about 18 hours a day) so I usually do utilize time to clean and such by putting puppy in her secured pen for a nice nap.
Be patient: Potty training takes time, so be patient with your puppy and stay consistent with your training. Remember to always reward good behavior and avoid punishing your puppy for accidents.
By following these steps, you can effectively potty train your puppy using positive reinforcement. With patience and consistency, your puppy will soon learn the proper way to eliminate and become a well-behaved member of your family.