Training older dogs to go to the bathroom outside does not have to be a daunting task. Potty training is not just for puppies. Some older or adult dogs may never have been house trained and these will need patience and special consideration.
Two methods to consider when you want to house train an older dog are command training, that is when you encourage your dog to go to the "potty" or crate training. Often an older dog will have already developed a personality and often they can have a strong will and be averse to change. Be patient, spend time with your dog and over time let it come to know that you are in control, you are the boss.
Unlike puppies older dogs have larger bladders and can go for longer period of time without having to relieve themselves. After an adult dog has eaten you can usually expect that within an hour or so it will be able to go "potty". This is not always the case when it has had a drink of water. Most dogs do not have to relieve themselves for some time, but it is best to get to know your dog's internal clock.
This will mean that you will have to spend some time outside with your dog waiting for it to go. Over time you should be able to get a general idea of how long it takes your dog to decide to relieve itself.
During the first few days, try to let your dog outside every hour or so. When it is outside encourage it to go by saying the word "potty". While it is relieving itself say the word "potty" two or three times and when it has finished give it lots of praise and a treat. Over time it will learn that it will get a treat and praise when it goes to the potty outside.
Accidents indoors will happen. If your dog goes to the bathroom inside and you catch it relieving itself, say no in a forceful voice, but don't yell or punish it. Immediately take it outside and encourage it to go by saying "potty'.
If your dog has an accident indoors, but you didn't see it happen there is not much you can do other than clean up the mess. Saying no or chastising your dog after the fact will not accomplish anything. Your dog wont be able to understand why you are saying no.
In the beginning, when you are training your dog to go to the bathroom outside try not to play with it. The purpose of the training is for your dog to associate the outdoors with going to the bathroom. Once it has been properly trained then you can play outside with your dog, especially after it has relieved itself and received praise. After a time your dog will understand that the outdoors are for going to the bathroom and for playing, walking and running around.
Sometimes it might be necessary to put your dog on a leash and leave it tied in the yard for fifteen to thirty minutes. If you have an older dog that was mistreated for going to the bathroom in front of people this will allow it to relax enough to relieve itself. Keep an eye on your dog and immediately it has gone to the bathroom go out and give it lots of praise and a treat.
Having an older dog which is not house trained can take a bit of work and lots of patience, but the rewards are obviously well worthwhile. Training should start as soon as you get your dog home in the same way you would with a new puppy. It is best to bring your dog home at a time when you can spend at least two solid days with it such as on a weekend. This will give you time to bond with the dog and to reinforce good behaviour.
Older dogs, and even the worst dog can be trained and transformed with lots of love, patience and consistency. Over time an older dog will learn that you are in charge and it will want to please you in order to receive praise and treats. This will go a long way in helping you to house train older dogs.
For more recommended dog training help please visit our Potty Dog Training Website.
