Introduction
When it comes to potty training a puppy, there are various methods to choose from. One common approach is using puppy pads indoors, while others prefer outdoor potty training. But what if you want to combine both methods? In this article, we will explore how to effectively use puppy pads and outdoor potty training together to help your puppy learn where to go potty.
Benefits of Using Puppy Pads
Convenience: Puppy pads provide a convenient solution for potty training, especially when you cannot always take your puppy outside. They are easily accessible, and you can place them in designated areas within your home.
Indoor Training: Using puppy pads allows your puppy to learn that it’s acceptable to relieve themselves indoors in a designated area. This can be particularly useful if you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space.
Accidents Control: Puppy pads can help contain accidents and minimize messes in your home. They provide a designated spot for your puppy to go potty, reducing the chances of them going in unwanted areas.
Outdoor Potty Training
Establishing Routine: Outdoor potty training helps your puppy associate going potty with being outside. It establishes a routine and encourages them to hold their bladder until they are taken outside.
Natural Instincts: Dogs have an innate instinct to relieve themselves outdoors. Outdoor potty training taps into this natural behavior and helps your puppy understand that going potty outside is the preferred option.
Physical Exercise: Taking your puppy outside for potty breaks also provides an opportunity for them to get some exercise and fresh air, which is beneficial for their overall well-being.
Combining Puppy Pads and Outdoor Potty Training
Gradual Transition: Start by placing puppy pads near the door leading to the outdoor potty area. This helps your puppy associate the pads with going outside. As your puppy becomes comfortable using the pads, gradually move them closer to the outdoor area until they are eventually placed outside.
Consistency: Maintain a consistent routine by taking your puppy outside at regular intervals, such as after meals, playtime, and waking up from naps. Reinforce the behavior of going potty outside by praising and rewarding your puppy when they do so.
Monitoring and Supervision: Keep a close eye on your puppy when they are indoors, especially during the initial stages of potty training. Watch for signs that they need to go potty, such as sniffing, circling, or restlessness. If you notice these signs, quickly redirect them to the puppy pads or take them outside.
Accidents Happen: It’s important to understand that accidents may still happen, especially during the early stages of training. If your puppy has an accident indoors, clean it up without scolding or punishing them. Instead, focus on reinforcing the desired behavior of going potty in the appropriate area.
Conclusion
Combining puppy pads and outdoor potty training can be an effective approach to potty training your puppy. Puppy pads provide convenience and help control accidents indoors, while outdoor potty training establishes a routine and taps into your puppy’s natural instincts. By gradually transitioning from puppy pads to outdoor potty training and maintaining consistency, you can successfully teach your puppy where to go potty.
References
– American Kennel Club: www.akc.org
– The Spruce Pets: www.thesprucepets.com
– PetMD: www.petmd.com
