Hi there and thanks for stopping by! I am by no means a dog expert, but having dogs most of my life I would call myself a “dog enthusiast”.
I’ve trained both Eloise and now Ferdinand to do their business inside on pee pads. They’re too small for New Jersey winters outside, mosquitos and ticks are prevalent where we live, and being on the third floor of a condo with no backyard makes it less conducive for dog walks.
I’ve done a lot of research on the matter and consulted with a few different veterinarians, two breeders, and a dog trainer. I’ve had experience with both a girl and a boy now so I figured I would share some of the tips I’ve learned along the way, in case someone can find it useful.
** Don’t give them full run of the house at first. Keeping them contained to a smaller area or pen while they’re potty training gives you peace of mind and helps them to focus. I call it a “safe zone”. An area of the home that’s been puppy proofed, covered in pads, and where you provide them with a bed or blanket, food, and fresh water. Too big of a space can be overwhelming for a little pup!
** Make plenty of pads available. Line the entire area with pads if you can, and make sure to swap out soiled pads frequently. (It can seem like all you’re doing some days, but hang in there!)
** Every few days or a week at a time, remove a pad. Eloise now uses 2 pads spaced evenly in our home. Remember that puppies don’t like to mess too close to where they eat and sleep.
** When you catch your puppy going potty on a pad, give them lots of praise! Small treats also work, but I’ve found excitement and praise works just as well. Dogs love to feel proud and accomplished. I believe in positive reinforcement, so if they potty somewhere else, I simply clean it up.
** With boy dogs, be sure to have them neutered around the 6 month mark if possible, before they start marking (you will know they’re marking because they will lift their leg). Consult with your vet on when the right time is for your little guy.
That’s all I have! Be sure to leave me any questions or tips and tricks you have down below. I love hearing from you!
Thanks for reading, have a fabulous day. :)
PS~ Even though I'm certain she doesn't read here, a very happy 7th birthday to my Coco! Love you gorgeous girl! 💓💓💓
And an aside, I had puppy pads left over (she was a quick learner or I was on picking up on her needs). I now use them on the floor under my plants when I bring the plants in for winter. I have a bow window and wood floors. I try not to drip or miss the plants, but stuff happens. The pee pads are not just for puppies. :)
ReplyDeleteOh yes, they have so many other uses! So far I’ve loved using the pads under muddy/snowy shoes, as a placemat under my dogs plates when they eat (they’re messy eaters), and even to paint my nails on! Thanks for reading Helen! :)
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