Can Your Dog Be Litter Trained?

There are many joys of dog ownership but walking your dog in inclement weather is most certainly not one of them.  Some dog owners may be wondering if there is another option to walking dogs in bad storms, snow or extreme temperatures.  Some, though not all, dogs can be litter trained.  Litter training is most effective for golden retriever puppies.

The benefits extend to both the dog owner and the dog.  Small dogs have little bladders and may not be able to wait until a human is available to walk them.  This is especially true if the humans spend many hours away from home each day.  A litter box offers the dog an appropriate place to use at any time of day or night.  The dog’s owner can be assured that their dog is comfortable and not worry about walking him in bad weather.

How to Litter Train Your Dog

Proper equipment is important to success.  First, you need to purchase an appropriate litter box.  There are now different sizes of litter boxes on the market made specifically for dogs.  If you can’t find a dog litter box, then look for the largest cat litter box available.   The litter box can be filled with a variety of things including newspaper, absorbent pads or dog or cat litter.  It is really the personal preference of the owner and, of course, the dog.  You might consider keeping a diaper pail near the litter box and disposing of your filler in the diaper pail.  That will help contain odor.  Proper cleaning supplies are also important to help contain odor.  Just make sure that the cleaning supplies are safe for use around your dog.

Once you have all of your supplies and are set up to begin, then the next stop is to involve your dog and begin retraining him.  The crate method that is used for teaching dogs to go outside is also effective with litter training.  It is important that whenever your dog is not within your direct sight and under your constant supervision, that you keep the dog in the crate.  Praise and positive reinforcements for successful use of the litter box are particularly effective.

As with all matters of dog training, consistency is important.  Keep the litter box in the same spot with the same filling inside.  Use the same words to encourage use of the box and the same treats to reward success.  Make sure that the litter box is kept clean as dogs will be less likely to use boxes with an odor.

Other Important Considerations

It is important to remember that while the use of litter box means less frequent walks, it does not give a dog owner complete freedom.  Dogs thrive on human interaction and should not be left alone for long periods of time even if they are litter trained and have access to food and water.  However, if you are house bound, occasionally work long hours or really dislike being outside in extreme weather, then litter training might be a good option for you and your pet.

Article by William Beasley of Oh My Dog Supplies, your top spot to purchase large dog beds online.