Post an ad

Toilet Training for Dandie Dinmont Terriers

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Dog walking outside wearing a leash

Toilet training, often referred to as housebreaking or potty training, is an essential part of raising a well-behaved and hygienic Dandie Dinmont Terrier. These intelligent and eager-to-please dogs can be successfully trained with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Here's a step-by-step guide to toilet training your Dandie Dinmont Terrier:

  • Start Early: Begin toilet training as soon as you bring your Dandie Dinmont Terrier puppy home. Young puppies have limited bladder control, so you'll need to be vigilant.
  • Establish a Routine: Dogs thrive on routines, so set a regular schedule for feeding, playtime, and bathroom breaks. Take your puppy outside to the designated potty area at consistent intervals, such as after waking up, after eating, and before bedtime.
  • Choose a Designated Potty Area: Designate a specific spot in your yard or outside area where you want your Dandie Dinmont to do their business. Consistency in location will help your dog understand where they should go.
  • Use Positive Reinforcement: When your puppy eliminates in the right spot, offer lots of praise, and even a treat as a reward. Positive reinforcement helps them associate going outside with positive experiences.
  • Supervise Closely: Keep a close eye on your puppy when they are indoors, especially during the early stages of training. Watch for signs like sniffing, circling, or whining, which may indicate they need to go outside.
  • Be Patient: Accidents will happen, especially with puppies. If your Dandie Dinmont Terrier has an accident indoors, avoid scolding or punishing them, as this can create fear and anxiety. Instead, calmly clean up the mess and refocus on training.
  • Consistent Command: Use a specific command, like "Go potty" or "Do your business," when you take your dog outside. This helps them understand the purpose of the outing.
  • Crate Training: Consider crate training as a valuable tool. Dogs generally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so a crate can help control accidents when you can't supervise your puppy closely.
  • Adjust Feeding Times: Be mindful of your puppy's feeding schedule. Try to feed them at consistent times to establish a regular elimination pattern.
  • Gradual Independence: As your Dandie Dinmont Terrier puppy grows, they will develop better bladder control. You can gradually increase the time between bathroom breaks.
  • Monitor for Health Issues: Sometimes, accidents can be due to health problems. If your Dandie Dinmont Terrier is having frequent accidents or seems unable to hold their bladder, consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.
  • Celebrate Success: Once your Dandie Dinmont Terrier consistently goes outside for potty breaks, celebrate their success. Continue to offer praise and rewards, but gradually reduce the frequency of treats as your dog becomes more reliable.


Remember that toilet training takes time and patience. Every dog is unique, and some may catch on quicker than others. The key is to stay consistent, maintain a positive and supportive attitude, and be prepared for some setbacks along the way. With proper training and love, your Dandie Dinmont Terrier will become a well-mannered and house-trained companion.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier puppies for sale

More on the Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Back to Top