Work with a dog training pad

A dog training pad was designed for 2 main purposes: to protect hardwood floors and carpets from damage if a dog relieves themselves on them, and to make cleaning up the mess easier later – simply pick up the dirty pad and throw it away in the trash. . In theory, this all sounds wonderful and easy, but in reality we still need to train the dog or puppy to relieve himself on the pad and not anywhere else. Especially with adult male dogs, this is quite a challenge: how do you teach a dog to aim? It’s hard enough with little kids!

The first step in working with dog training pads is selecting the right pad for your needs. Puppy training pads come in different sizes and with different degrees of absorbency. There is no need to buy the largest pad available with the highest possible absorbency if you have a small poodle puppy. Sure it will work, but the extra cost is unnecessary. The reverse is also true: a small, thin pad is not suitable for dog potty training with your adult Rottweiler.

The next accessory that is not necessary, but could be useful, is a special potty training spray. This is sprayed onto the dog training pad and will indicate (via scent) to your dog or puppy where you want her to relieve herself. Once you have all the equipment, place the dog training pad where you want the dog to relieve himself. It is usually located in an area away from the dog’s food, water, and sleeping area.

Real dog potty training involves watching your dog carefully. The moment you see them starting their business somewhere other than the dog training platform, give a stern NO, possibly combined with a firm shake to the back of the neck. Immediately place them on the dog training pad and let them finish their work. Praise them generously when they are finished and throw the used pad in the trash, replacing it with a new one. Repeating this exercise will soon teach your dog where you want him to relieve himself.

Initially, when you notice him relieving himself on the training platform without prompting, reinforce this behavior with praise and possibly a little treat. Also watch for signs that they might need to go (i.e. restlessness, sniffing, or possibly indicating that they want out) so you can be proactive and get them on the pad before they start.

Other items on this site that may be of interest to you include: Dog Training Pad