How to litter box train your pooch
It seems a bit ridiculous: litter box training a dog. But, owners across the country have benefited from the extra training. Litter box training is not difficult, but it does take time. Following these steps can help you create a training program for your pooch. As with all training, remember that rewards are always a huge help!
If you have already started crate training, then you are one step ahead. If you have already completed or haven’t even started crate training, then it may take a little more time. However, using these tips with crate training (even if you have to start using the crate again) can help any owner in the litter box process.
At this point, you should already have all the supplies prepared. The box should be ready and in its proper location. Once you place the box in one location, then it’s not a good idea to move it. Your pet will be familiarizing himself with the box, moving it around will only slow the process. Give him a chance to check things out; you don’t want him to fear the box. It may sound strange, but collecting a small bit of his feces and placing it in the box will encourage him to use the box. Dogs like to “go” in the same places, so if the smell is familiar, then he will be more likely to “go” there again.
It’s a good idea to start with newspaper lining the box. Let your dog use the paper for awhile before you add the litter. Once you see that he is comfortable with the paper, then start slowly introducing the litter. He won’t like to suddenly be knee deep in litter, so each time you clean out the box, add a little more.
Make sure you set up a feeding schedule. If you are crate training, then you may already have a schedule in place. By feeding your pooch at the same times each day, you will be able to “plan” when it is time to take him to the box. You must also realize that dog’s tend to do their business when they wake up (in the morning or from a nap), after feeding (you’ll eventually be able to roughly time this), and before bedtime.
When your pet is telling you it’s time to go, then take him from his crate and place him directly in the litter box. If you have already established a “go” command, then use the command. If not, then start using one. If needed, gently hold your puppy in the box, but do not force him to stay there. You may even need to start with the box outside. In this case, you would take him outdoors and place him in the box; this is also a way to start a dog that already goes outdoors on a litter box program. Just like with outdoor training, stay there until he does his business, no matter how long it takes. Litter box training is based on repetitiveness. If you take your pup straight to the box every time he needs to go, then he will soon learn that the box is where he needs to go.
During the training, it is important to watch your pooch. If he starts circling an area, smelling of the area, or begins his ritual, then stop him immediately. Clap your hands and say “no” to startle him. Then, grab him and place him in the box. You must not allow him to use the area that he is checking out and then punish him. Stopping him in the act is much more effective than punishing after the fact.
Rewards are a huge training help! When your dog finally “goes” in the desired location, then give him a treat. Continue to do this until he gets the hang of things, then replace the treat with a belly rub or a head pat. Never get angry with your pet for not using the box, because it may deter him from using the box entirely. Remember that training requires time and patience on your part.
Litter training can be a great tool for many owners. Once you have the supplies and location picked out, let your pooch familiarize himself with things. You may have to slowly introduce the litter, so make sure you keep plenty of newspaper on hand in the beginning. When it’s time for your pet to “go,” simply take him from his crate to the box. Encourage him to use the box just like you would encourage him to use the lawn. And, don’t forget the treats!
Article provided by pet-super-store.com a site featuring dog crates, orthopedic dog beds and dog strollers.