How to Potty Train an Older Dog - Simple Tips That Work

You may think that potty training is only for puppies, but it is possible to learn how to potty train an older dog. In fact, the potty training methods for both puppies and adult dogs are nearly identical. However, since adult dogs may be more stuck in their ways just like a grumpy old man would be, you need to focus on teaching your dog good habits rather than trying to eliminate bad ones. You need to teach your dog that going outside is a good behavior to be rewarded rather than trying to punish it for going inside.

Right now you may not know how to train a dog from urinating in the house, but the solution is much easier than you would expect. The first thing you need to do is to understand your dog so you can set him up for potty training success. Remember that dogs are a lot like humans. When they are young and when they start getting old, they have less control over their bodily functions than they did when they were in their prime.

Thus, you should try to eliminate giving your dog food and water just before bed time. This will help ensure he doesn't wake in the middle of the night with a strong urge to urinate or defecate, and will keep you from finding an unwanted surprise on the floor when you wake up in the morning.

How To Train A Dog To Go To The Bathroom In The Yard

Knowing how to potty train an older dog the right way involves getting your dog into a bathroom routine. Try to let your dog out at the same time each morning. Doing so will help it learn the right time to potty. Also, try to take your dog to the same spot in the yard day in and day out, especially when you're first attempting to potty train. This way it will learn that the yard is an appropriate place to urinate and the carpet inside is not.

Also be consistent in the words you choose to tell your dog to "go potty". When you're first training your dog, you should only say "go potty" or "good potty" when your dog is actually doing the deed. If you say it too soon then your dog will be confused and will think that "go potty" means "wander around in the yard for a while". Once your dog learns the meaning of the words, then it will understand what you want, but it will take a little patience to get him to that point.

How To Potty Train An Older Dog - Last Thoughts

Lastly, as you potty train your older dog, remember that dogs don't like to soil their sleeping area. Thus, if you crate train your dog and put it in a crate at night, it will be less likely to leave a mess than if you just let it roam throughout the house. If your dog does have an accident, then be sure to clean it completely with a good deodorizer so your dog won't be able to pick up the smell. Otherwise, he may think the carpet is a good place to go potty again.

If you're frustrated and ready to pull your hair out over spending more than your fair share of time yelling at your dog, cleaning up messes, replacing chewed up shoes, and listening to your dog bark all night long, then try D.J.'s wildly popular newsletter that teaches you insider dog training tips and techniques to get your furry, four-legged pet to obey your every command.

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