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Toilet Training Your Bichon Frise: A Step-by-Step Guide

A litter of Bichon Frise Puppies sitting inside woven bag

Toilet training, also known as housebreaking or potty training, is an essential aspect of raising a well-behaved and clean Bichon Frise. While every dog is unique and may have their own learning pace, Bichon Frises are generally intelligent and can be successfully toilet trained with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve success in toilet training your

Bichon Frise


Start Early

Begin toilet training as soon as you bring your Bichon Frise puppy home, ideally around 8 to 12 weeks of age. Puppies have smaller bladders and may need to go more frequently.


Establish a Routine

Set a regular schedule for feeding, watering, and bathroom breaks. Consistency is key. Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after meals, before bedtime, and at regular intervals throughout the day.


Choose a Designated Toilet Area

Select a specific spot in your yard or outdoors where you want your Bichon Frise to go potty. This consistent location will help your dog understand where they should relieve themselves.


Use Positive Reinforcement

When your puppy successfully goes potty in the designated area, praise and reward them immediately. Use treats, verbal praise, and affection to reinforce the behaviour you want.


Be Patient and Watchful

Keep a close eye on your puppy, especially during the initial stages of training. Watch for signs like sniffing, circling, or whining, which may indicate they need to go. If you see these signs, take them outside promptly.


Supervise Indoors

When indoors, keep your puppy in a confined area or use a crate to limit their access to the house. Dogs generally avoid soiling their living space, so this will encourage them to hold it until you can take them outside.


Teach Verbal Cues

Use consistent verbal cues like "Go potty" or "Do your business" when your puppy is eliminating. Over time, they will associate these commands with the act of relieving themselves.


Clean Up Accidents Promptly

Accidents happen, especially during the learning process. When they do occur indoors, clean them up immediately using an enzymatic cleaner designed to eliminate odors. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, as they can attract your puppy back to the same spot.


Gradual Independence

As your Bichon Frise puppy becomes more reliable in their toilet training, gradually increase their freedom inside the house. Keep in mind that puppies have limited bladder control and may need to go out frequently, especially when they are young.


Be Consistent

Consistency is vital throughout the entire toilet training process. Stick to the same routine and positive reinforcement methods until your Bichon Frise consistently goes potty in the designated area.


Be Patient

Every dog is unique, and some may take longer to master toilet training than others. Be patient and avoid scolding or punishing your puppy for accidents, as this can lead to anxiety and setbacks in training.
Remember that successful toilet training requires time and commitment. While Bichon Frises are generally quick learners, they may still have occasional accidents, especially as puppies. With consistent effort, positive reinforcement, and a lot of love and patience, your Bichon Frise will become a reliably house-trained and well-behaved companion.

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