How To Potty Train Your Dog

If you're a new dog owner, one of the first things you'll probably want to tackle is how to potty train your dog. Teaching a dog to use the potty is not as hard as it may seem. Being consistent and reassuring helps out a great deal. This article will show you proper tips and techniques on how to properly train your dog to use the potty. 

To potty train your dog, you will need:

• A dog crate

1. Wait for the cues. The first step in learning how to potty train your dog is to know your dog's potty cues. Whenever a dog has to use the potty, they will generally show a few signs. These signs can be sniffing the floor while turning around in circles, whining or displaying antsy behavior. Dogs will generally have to use the potty after meals, after naps and before bedtime. You will quickly learn the signs that your dog gives right before they relieve themselves.
2. Introduce your dog to the potty area. Once you know that your dog has to use the potty, take them to the designated potty area. You may choose to use the outdoors, a training pad or even a litter box. Be sure to use this designated area every time your dog has to use the potty. Changing the potty area can confuse the dog and make potty training take longer.
3. Introduce the crate. A dog crate should be used whenever you are away from the house and can't take your dog to their potty area. Make sure that the crate is only large enough for the dog to lie down and turn around comfortably in. A roomy crate is not needed since your dog may relieve himself in the crate if he has a lot of room. You want to train your dog to hold it until they are taken to their designated potty area. The cage should only accommodate a bed, water and food.
4. Be consistent. Potty training your dog requires time and patience. Occasionally, a dog will have seemed to have mastered potty training only to relapse into soiling in the house again. This is normal. Don't let this discourage you, just continue to follow your dog's potty cues and take him to his potty area regularly.
5. Offer praise. When your dog does use the potty successfully, be sure to give him lots of  praise. He will quickly learn that it makes you happy when he uses the potty and will be eager to please you.