Daisy & Zeke

Most people think I’m crazy when I tell them that I’m litterbox training my dogs.  Perhaps I am a bit crazy.  Zeke has been very consistent with the litterbox from the first day he was introduced to it–although he does like to use it as a chew toy.  Several people also told me that Daisy would never learn to potty in the litterbox.  Friends, the little white dog has proven you wrong…

Both Zeke and Daisy have been consitently going potty on puppy pads and in the litterbox for about a week now.  It’s nice to stay inside during the summer thunderstorms and to go for real walks without having one of Daisy’s notorious “potty battles” ensue.  So, if you’re not as lucky as me in having dogs who naturally take to the litterbox, here’s the how to guide for training:

1. While trainers caution against using puppy pads, I’ve found that they really do attract the dogs.  If you have to leave a young dog alone for long periods of time (4 hours or more), the pads are a must to save your floors.  I recommend Simple Solution Jumpstart pads, available at: http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2752014.
2. Make sure that you purchase a dog litterbox (http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2754401), which is very different than a cat one.  Dog ones have lower sides and are slightly larger than cat boxes.  If you have a puppy that still chews, start with the pads in the box instead of litter.  Most puppies are naturally attracted to the pads and will start going in the box immediately.  Once the chewing obsession ends, you can put litter in the box under the pads to start, then remove the pad if they leave the litter alone.
3. For older dogs who are already trained outdoors, take the pad and box outside.  If the dog goes on the pad or in the box, reward her.   Once she consistently goes in the box outside, move it inside.  Use the same commands as you do outside, and make sure to reward her! 
4. Make sure to keep the litterbox available at all times.  If you’re using the pads at first, keeping a used pad under a clean one will help to attract the dog to the box to potty.  You can also buy a spray that attracts the dogs.  Also, make sure to clean up thoroughly any misses around the box to prevent the dog from returning to the scent on the floor.

Good luck!  You’re now on your way to litterbox success!  Trust me, if Daisy can do it, so can your dog…

Patrick, please help me!

Potty on the floor?  Who, me?