Toilet Training Your Shoodle: A Step-By-Step Guide
Toilet training, often referred to as housebreaking, is an essential aspect of bringing a Shoodle puppy into your home. This process requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to help your Shoodle understand where and when it's appropriate to relieve themselves. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you successfully toilet train your Shoodle.
Start Early
Begin toilet training as soon as you bring your Shoodle puppy home. Puppies have smaller bladders and may need to eliminate more frequently than adult dogs.
Establish a Routine
Set a regular schedule for bathroom breaks. Take your Shoodle out first thing in the morning, after meals, before bedtime, and at regular intervals throughout the day. Consistency is key.
Choose a Designated Area
Select a specific spot in your yard or outside where you want your Shoodle to go. This will help them associate that spot with bathroom breaks.
Use Positive Reinforcement
When your Shoodle successfully eliminates in the designated area, praise them enthusiastically and offer a small treat. Positive reinforcement helps them understand that they're doing the right thing.
Supervise Closely
Keep a close eye on your Shoodle indoors, especially during the initial stages of training. Look for signs that they need to go, such as sniffing, circling, or whining.
Crate Training
Consider crate training to assist with toilet training. Dogs typically avoid soiling their sleeping area, so a properly sized crate can help your Shoodle learn to hold it until you take them outside.
Be Patient
Expect accidents to happen, especially with puppies. If your Shoodle has an accident indoors, clean it up promptly and without scolding them. Scolding can create fear and anxiety, which may hinder the training process.
Eliminate Odours
Thoroughly clean any indoor accidents to remove odours that might attract your Shoodle back to the same spot. Use an enzyme-based cleaner specifically designed for pet accidents.
Monitor Water and Food Intake
Control your Shoodle's water and food intake, especially in the evening. This can help reduce the likelihood of nighttime accidents.
Gradually Extend Time Between Breaks
As your Shoodle becomes more reliable, gradually increase the time between bathroom breaks. However, continue to follow a consistent schedule.
Communicate
Teach your Shoodle a specific cue for bathroom time, such as "potty" or "outside." Use this cue consistently to signal the purpose of the outdoor trip.
Celebrate Success
When your Shoodle consistently goes outside and understands the bathroom cues, celebrate their progress. Gradually reduce the use of treats but continue to offer praise for good behaviour.
Be Consistent
Consistency is the key to successful toilet training. Stick to your routine, remain patient, and reinforce positive behaviour consistently.
Remember that every dog, including Shoodles, is unique and may progress at their own pace. Some puppies may catch on quickly, while others may take more time. Stay dedicated to the process, and you'll likely find that your Shoodle becomes reliably house-trained, making life more comfortable and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.