Effective Tips for Successful Potty Training of Your Shih Poo
Potty training a Shih Poo can be a daunting task, but it’s a crucial part of being a responsible pet owner. As you embark on this journey, you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. Fear not! We have compiled a list of 10 tips for successful potty training of your Shih Poo that are sure to make the process a little easier. From establishing a routine to using positive reinforcement, these tried and true methods are bound to bring success. So, grab your cleaning supplies and let’s dive in!
General Rules of Successful Potty Training
Potty training a Shih Poo can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach and mindset, it can be a smooth process. Before delving into the specific tips for training your furry friend, it’s important to understand the general rules of successful potty training. By following these guidelines, you can set your Shih Poo up for success and ensure a stress-free experience for both you and your pup. From creating a schedule to positive reinforcement, these general rules will provide a solid foundation for your potty training journey. Be sure to check out our article on Shih Poo potty needs for more information on how to establish healthy bathroom habits for your pup.
Create a Schedule
Creating a schedule is an essential step in potty training your Shih Poo. Dogs thrive on routine, and establishing a consistent schedule will help your furry friend learn when it’s time to go outside. Make a list of times when you’ll take your Shih Poo outside to potty, including first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime. It’s also important to note that puppies have smaller bladders and will need to go outside more frequently than adult dogs. For the first few weeks of training, plan to take your Shih Poo outside every 2-3 hours, even if they don’t show signs of needing to go.
To keep track of the schedule, set reminders on your phone or write it down on a calendar. This will help you stay consistent and make sure your Shih Poo is given ample opportunities to go potty outside. If you work long hours or can’t take your Shih Poo outside frequently, consider hiring a dog walker to help maintain the schedule.
It’s important to keep in mind that accidents will happen, especially in the early stages of potty training. Stay patient and stick to the schedule, even if your Shih Poo isn’t catching on right away. With consistency and positive reinforcement, your furry friend will eventually learn the schedule and signal when it’s time to go outside.
For additional tips on potty training your Shih Poo, check out our article on potty training your Shih Poo in a small space or learn about the common mistakes to avoid in our article on Shih Poo potty training mistakes. And if you’re ready to take potty training to the next level, read about using a bell to train your Shih Poo in our article on Shih Poo bell training.
Designate a Spot
When it comes to potty training your Shih Poo, one important rule to follow is to designate a specific spot for your puppy to do their business. This spot should be easily accessible and preferably in an area that won’t be disturbed by foot traffic or other distractions.
To ensure your Shih Poo associates this spot with going potty, it’s important to consistently take them to this location for bathroom breaks. This will help establish the habit of going to that spot when they need to use the bathroom.
You may also want to use a potty pad or artificial turf in this designated spot to make cleanup easier. If you do use a potty pad, make sure to gradually move it closer to the door leading outside as your puppy becomes more comfortable going outside.
Here are some other tips for designating a spot for your Shih Poo’s bathroom breaks:
- Use a specific command or phrase when you take your puppy to this spot, such as “go potty” or “do your business.” This will help reinforce the association between the spot and the desired behavior.
- Make sure the spot is in a safe and secure area, away from other pets or animals that may cause distractions or pose a danger to your Shih Poo.
- If possible, try to choose a spot that has a natural scent cue, such as a tree or patch of grass.
- Be consistent with taking your puppy to this spot, especially after meals and naps.
Remember, successful potty training requires consistency and patience. By designating a specific spot for your Shih Poo to use the bathroom, you can help establish good habits and make the process easier for both you and your furry friend.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an effective strategy to encourage your Shih Poo to associate potty training with positive experiences. This approach is based on rewarding good behavior rather than punishing unwanted behavior. By rewarding your Shih Poo for doing well, they’ll be more likely to repeat the good behavior.
Here are some positive reinforcement techniques that you may find helpful in potty training your Shih Poo:
| Reward | Description |
|---|---|
| Treats: | Give your Shih Poo a small treat every time they use the designated potty spot. Use treats that your Shih Poo loves and keep them in a readily accessible place to ensure a prompt reward. |
| Praise: | Verbal praise is an excellent positive reinforcement tool. Compliment your Shih Poo every time they use the designated potty spot. Positive words such as “Good boy/girl”, “What a smart Shih Poo”, or “Bravo” work wonders. |
| Playtime: | If your Shih Poo enjoys playing, then give them an extra 5-10 minutes of playtime after using the designated potty spot. This rewards good behavior with more fun time. |
| Attention: | Some Shih Poos are very attention seeking. You can use this to your advantage by rewarding good bathroom behavior with an extra belly rub, pet stroke, or cuddles. |
Using positive reinforcement in potty training your Shih Poo can help reinforce the correct behavior and boost their confidence. Be sure to reward your Shih Poo immediately after using the designated potty spot, as this reinforces the correct association. With consistent use and patience, your Shih Poo will flourish in their potty training journey.
Accidents Happen
Potty training your Shih Poo can be a challenging task, and accidents are bound to happen at some point. It’s important to remember that accidents are a normal part of the potty training process, and it doesn’t mean that your pup isn’t making progress. Here are a few things to keep in mind when accidents do happen:
- Stay Calm: It’s important to stay calm when your Shih Poo has an accident. Punishing or yelling at your pup will only scare them and make them less inclined to potty outside.
- Clean Up the Mess: Accidents can be a messy business, but it’s essential to clean up the area thoroughly to prevent any lingering odors that will attract your pup back to the same spot. Use a pet stain and odor remover to clean up the mess.
- Reinforce Good Behavior: Remember to praise and reward your Shih Poo when they do go potty outside. This will help reinforce the good behavior and encourage them to continue going outside.
- Adjust Your Strategy: Accidents can be a sign that it’s time to adjust your potty training strategy. Consider offering more frequent potty breaks, changing up the rewards, or trying a new cue word.
Keep in mind that accidents are normal during the potty training process, and it’s important to stay patient and consistent. With time and effort, your Shih Poo will learn to go potty outside and become a well-trained companion.
10 Tips for Successful Potty Training of Your Shih Poo
Potty training your Shih Poo can be a challenging task, but with the right approach and consistency, you can make the process smoother and more successful. Here, we have compiled ten helpful tips that will guide you through the potty-training process, and help you to teach your furry friend to eliminate in the designated spot. From establishing a routine and using a crate, to watching your Shih Poo’s diet, creating positive associations, and avoiding punishment, these tips will set you and your little companion on the path to successful potty training. So, let’s get started!
Tip 1: Be Patient
The first and most important tip for successful potty training of your Shih Poo is to be patient. Potty training is a process that takes time and it’s important to remember that accidents will happen along the way. It’s important to approach potty training with a positive attitude, and to try not to get frustrated with your Shih Poo when accidents occur.
Here are some things you can do to practice patience while potty training your Shih Poo:
- Give Your Shih Poo Time: Everyone learns at their own pace, and your Shih Poo is no exception. Some dogs may potty train quickly, while others may take longer. Be patient and give your Shih Poo the time they need to learn.
- Don’t Rush: Rushing the potty training process can cause more harm than good. Take your time and be consistent with your training. Don’t try to force your Shih Poo to learn faster than they are capable.
- Avoid Punishment: Punishing your Shih Poo for accidents can lead to fear and anxiety, making the potty training process even more difficult. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and rewarding good behavior.
- Keep a Calm Attitude: Your attitude can greatly affect your Shih Poo’s behavior. By staying calm and patient, you can help your Shih Poo feel more comfortable and confident during the potty training process.
Remember, patience is key when it comes to potty training your Shih Poo. Stay positive, be consistent, and give your furry friend the time they need to learn. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to a successfully potty trained Shih Poo in no time.
Tip 2: Establish a Routine
Establishing a routine is crucial when it comes to potty training your Shih Poo. Dogs thrive on structure and consistency, so having a set routine will help your pup know when it’s time to go outside and do their business. Here are some steps you can take to establish a potty training routine for your Shih Poo:
- Create a schedule: Set a schedule for taking your Shih Poo outside to go potty. This includes taking them out first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime. Stick to the schedule as closely as possible, as this will help your pup learn when it’s time to go.
- Be consistent: When it’s time for your Shih Poo to go outside, take them to the designated potty spot every time. Using the same spot consistently will help your pup associate that area with going potty.
- Use a leash: During potty breaks, keep your Shih Poo on a leash so that they stay in the designated potty area. This will help prevent distractions and make it easier for your pup to focus on going potty.
- Stay with your Shih Poo: While your pup is outside, stay with them and give them praise and treats when they successfully go potty. This positive reinforcement will encourage them to continue going in the designated potty spot.
- Limit playtime: While it’s important to give your Shih Poo exercise and playtime, try to limit vigorous play before potty breaks. This will help prevent accidents and ensure that your pup focuses on going potty when it’s time.
By establishing a routine, you’ll be able to set clear expectations for your Shih Poo and make the potty training process go much smoother. Be patient and consistent, and don’t forget to give your pup plenty of praise and treats along the way.
Tip 3: Use a Crate
When it comes to potty training your Shih Poo, using a crate can be a highly effective technique. Dogs have a natural instinct to keep their living area clean, so a crate can be a valuable tool in teaching your dog to hold their bladder and bowel movements.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when using a crate for potty training:
| DO: | DON’T: |
|---|---|
| Introduce the crate gradually – let your Shih Poo explore it at their own pace and make sure it feels like a safe and comfortable space. | Rush the introduction or force your dog into the crate. |
| Make the crate cozy – use comfortable bedding and toys to make it a pleasant experience for your dog. | Leave the crate empty or use it as a punishment area. |
| Use the crate consistently – put your dog in the crate for short periods of time throughout the day, and especially during times when they are likely to need to go potty. | Use the crate as a long-term confinement solution or leave your dog in the crate for extended periods of time. |
| Praise and reward your dog when they successfully go potty outside of the crate. | Scold or punish your dog for accidents inside the crate. |
By following these do’s and don’ts of crate training, you can help make the experience of potty training your Shih Poo more successful and less stressful for both you and your dog. Remember, consistency, patience and positive reinforcement are key to successful potty training with a crate.
Tip 4: Watch Your Shih Poo’s Diet
Being mindful of your Shih Poo’s diet is an important aspect of successful potty training. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Feed your Shih Poo on a schedule: Feeding your Shih Poo at the same time each day can help regulate their bowel movements, making it easier to predict when they may need to go outside for a potty break.
- Avoid overfeeding: Overfeeding your Shih Poo can lead to more frequent bathroom breaks and can make it more difficult to establish a consistent routine. Follow the recommended portion sizes for your Shih Poo’s size and breed.
- Choose the right food: Look for high-quality, easily digestible dog food that is appropriate for your Shih Poo’s age and size. Foods that contain a lot of fillers or artificial ingredients can upset your dog’s digestive system, leading to more frequent potty breaks and accidents.
- Limit water intake at certain times: Limiting your Shih Poo’s water intake a few hours before bedtime can help reduce the likelihood of accidents during the night. However, make sure to provide them with plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
It’s important to remember that every dog is unique and may have different dietary needs. If you’re unsure about what to feed your Shih Poo or how much to feed them, consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations. By being mindful of your Shih Poo’s diet, you can help set them up for success with potty training.
Tip 5: Consistent Potty Breaks
Consistent potty breaks are essential for successful potty training of your Shih Poo. Here are some tips on how to make sure you’re providing adequate potty breaks for your furry friend:
- Create a schedule: Establish a consistent schedule for your Shih Poo’s potty breaks. This could mean taking them out first thing in the morning, after meals, before bedtime, and every few hours in between.
- Watch for signs: Keep an eye out for signs that your Shih Poo needs to go potty, such as sniffing around or circling. When you notice these signs, take them outside immediately.
- Use a timer: Set a timer on your phone or clock to remind you to take your Shih Poo outside at regular intervals. This will help you maintain a consistent schedule.
- Take them to the same spot: When you take your Shih Poo outside, always take them to the same designated spot. This will help them learn to associate that spot with going potty.
- Be patient: Remember that accidents can happen, especially during the early stages of potty training. If your Shih Poo has an accident, calmly clean it up and continue with your consistent potty breaks.
By following these tips, you can establish a consistent potty routine that will help your Shih Poo successfully learn to go potty outside. Remember to be patient and consistent, and to always use positive reinforcement when your Shih Poo successfully goes potty outside.
Tip 6: Use a Word or Phrase
When it comes to potty training your Shih Poo, using a consistent word or phrase to signal when it’s time to go outside can be a helpful tool. This word or phrase will act as a cue for your dog to understand what you expect of them.
Why is this important?
Well, if you use the same word or phrase every time you take your Shih Poo outside to go potty, they’ll eventually associate that word with the act of going to the bathroom. Over time, your dog will come to understand that this word means it’s time to do their business outside.
So, what word or phrase should you use? It’s up to you! Here are a few examples to get you started:
| Word/Phrase | Description |
|---|---|
| “Go potty” | A simple, straightforward phrase that conveys the message clearly. |
| “Do your business” | A more formal-sounding phrase that serves the same purpose. |
| “Get busy” | A fun, playful phrase that can help put your dog in the right mindset. |
How to use the word or phrase
When it’s time to take your Shih Poo outside, use your word or phrase consistently. Say it in a firm but friendly voice, and make sure your dog is paying attention.
If your Shih Poo starts to go potty as soon as you say the word, give them plenty of praise and rewards. This reinforces the behavior and makes them more likely to repeat it in the future.
Remember: using a consistent word or phrase is just one piece of the potty training puzzle. It’s important to be patient, consistent, and positive throughout the whole process. With time and effort, your Shih Poo will become a potty training champ!
Tip 7: Create Positive Associations
When it comes to potty training your Shih Poo, creating positive associations can be a game changer. This means finding ways to make going potty outside a positive and enjoyable experience for your pup. Here are some tips to help you create positive associations:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Take your Shih Poo to the same spot each time they go outside |
| 2 | Praise and reward your puppy immediately after they go potty outside |
| 3 | Give your Shih Poo a special treat that they only get for going potty outside |
| 4 | Play a game with your puppy after they go potty outside |
| 5 | Use a special word or phrase to indicate it’s potty time, and use it consistently |
| 6 | Provide a lot of positive feedback, petting and encouragement before, during, and after potty time |
| 7 | Make sure to clean up indoor accidents thoroughly to avoid any negative association with going potty inside |
By implementing these tips, your Shih Poo is likely to associate going potty outside with positive experiences and may even look forward to it. Remember to stay consistent and patient, and you’ll have a potty trained pup in no time.
Tip 8: Avoid Punishing Your Shih Poo
It can be tempting to punish your Shih Poo if they have an accident or do not go potty when and where they are supposed to. However, this can do more harm than good and make the potty training process more difficult. Here are some reasons why you should avoid punishing your Shih Poo during potty training:
- Creates Fear: Punishing your Shih Poo can lead to them feeling scared or anxious, making it harder for them to learn and trust you. It may also damage your bond with your furry friend.
- Confuses Your Shih Poo: Dogs do not always connect the punishment with the behavior you are trying to correct. For example, if you rub their nose in their mess, they may only learn not to go potty in front of you instead of understanding that they should go outside.
- Makes Your Shih Poo Sneaky: Your Shih Poo may become sneaky and try to hide their accidents or avoid going potty in front of you. This will make it harder for you to train them and catch them in the act to redirect them to their designated potty spot.
- Could Lead to More Accidents: If your Shih Poo is scared or stressed because of punishment, they may have more accidents rather than fewer ones. This is because their focus is on avoiding your displeasure, rather than understanding where and when to go potty.
Instead of punishing your Shih Poo during potty training, focus on positive reinforcement and redirecting them to their designated potty spot. Remember to always stay patient and consistent throughout the process.
Tip 9: Use a Bell or Door Chime
One creative and effective strategy for potty training your Shih Poo is to use a bell or door chime to signal to your furry friend that it’s time to go outside. Here are some tips and suggestions to help make this strategy work for you:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Attach a bell or chime to your door about nose level for your Shih Poo. |
| 2 | Make sure your Shih Poo watches you ring the bell or chime before going outside. |
| 3 | Encourage your Shih Poo to ring the bell or chime on their own by tapping or nudging it with their nose or paw. |
| 4 | Praise and reward your Shih Poo every time they ring the bell or chime and successfully go potty outside. |
| 5 | Be patient and positive; it may take some time for your Shih Poo to understand what the bell or chime means. |
Using a bell or chime helps train your Shih Poo to communicate their bathroom needs to you, instead of relying solely on you to initiate the potty break. It also associates the sound of the bell or chime with going outside to do their business, making it a clear and consistent signal for your Shih Poo to understand.
It’s important to remember that every Shih Poo is different and may learn at their own pace. Some may take longer to understand the concept of ringing the bell or chime, so don’t get discouraged if your furry friend doesn’t catch on right away. Be patient, consistent, and positive, and your Shih Poo will eventually learn to communicate their bathroom needs to you using the bell or chime.
Tip 10: Stay Consistent
Consistency is key when it comes to potty training your Shih Poo. Here are some ways to maintain consistency throughout the process:
| Consistent location | Designate a specific spot outside for your Shih Poo to go potty, and always take them there. This will help them understand where they should go and create a routine for them. |
| Consistent schedule | Stick to a regular schedule for feeding and potty breaks. This will help your Shih Poo learn when they can expect to go outside and when they need to hold it. |
| Consistent reinforcement | Continue to use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, every time your Shih Poo goes potty outside. This will help reinforce the desired behavior and encourage them to keep it up. |
| Consistent consequences | If your Shih Poo has an accident inside, respond consistently every time. Use a vocal cue like “No!” or “Bad dog!” and then take them immediately outside to their designated spot. Avoid punishing them after the fact, as they won’t understand what they did wrong. |
By staying consistent in these areas, you will help your Shih Poo understand what is expected of them and make the process of potty training much smoother. Remember to be patient and persistent, and you will see success in no time!
Common Potty Training Problems and Solutions
Potty training your Shih Poo can be a challenging, yet rewarding experience. However, even when following the general rules and tips for success, it’s common to run into some issues along the way. It can be perplexing when your furry friend doesn’t seem to be picking up on the training as quickly as you’d like, or when accidents continue to happen despite your best efforts. But don’t fret – with a little patience and some troubleshooting, these common potty training problems can be easily solved. Let’s explore some of the most frequently encountered issues and their solutions.
Problem 1: Your Shih Poo is Scared to Use the Bathroom Outside
It’s not uncommon for a Shih Poo puppy to be scared to use the bathroom outside, especially if they’re not socialized properly. This can be a frustrating problem for new pet parents to deal with, but there are solutions to help your furry friend overcome their fears.
Problem: Your Shih Poo is Scared to Use the Bathroom Outside
| Possible Reasons | Solutions |
|---|---|
| Your Shih Poo was not socialized enough | Start socializing your pup by taking them on walks and introducing them to other dogs and people. Gradually increase the time spent outside to help your Shih Poo get comfortable in their surroundings. |
| Your Shih Poo had a traumatic experience outside | It’s important to identify the cause of the trauma and work with a professional dog trainer to overcome the issue. Gradual desensitization techniques can help your Shih Poo overcome their fear. |
| Weather conditions are too extreme | Shih Poos may not want to go outside if it’s too hot, too cold, or raining. Try providing your pup with a covered area to go potty or offer them a raincoat or booties to keep them dry and comfortable. |
It’s important to be patient with your Shih Poo and not force them to go outside if they’re feeling scared or uncomfortable. Gradual exposure and positive reinforcement can help your furry friend overcome their fears and enjoy outdoor potty time. Remember to praise and reward your Shih Poo when they successfully go potty outside, as positive reinforcement can go a long way in building their confidence.
Problem 2: Your Shih Poo Keeps Having Accidents Inside
One of the most frustrating problems that Shih Poo owners face during potty training is when their furry friend keeps having accidents inside the house. Accidents can happen for various reasons, including a lack of clear communication or inconsistencies in the training process. Don’t get discouraged, as this is a common problem that can be addressed with a few helpful tips.
1. Re-establish the Routine: If your Shih Poo keeps having accidents inside, it might be a sign that they need to go out more often. Try to stick to a fixed schedule so that your Shih Poo knows when it’s time to go outside. Take them out at regular intervals, such as after meals and naps, and don’t forget to reward them for their good behavior.
2. Keep a Close Eye on Them: Sometimes, accidents happen because your Shih Poo simply needs to go and you’re not paying attention. Until your Shih Poo is fully trained, keep a close eye on them and watch for signs that they need to go, such as sniffing or circling.
3. Clean Up Accidents Thoroughly: If your Shih Poo keeps having accidents in the same spot, it’s because they can smell their scent there. Make sure to use an enzymatic cleaner to thoroughly clean any accidents, as standard household cleaners won’t eliminate the scent completely.
4. Assess the Training Process: It’s also possible that your training process needs some tweaking. Are you using positive reinforcement consistently? Are you properly rewarding your Shih Poo when they go outside? Make sure that you’re following all the general rules of successful potty training and the tips mentioned in this article.
5. Seek Professional Help: If your Shih Poo’s accidents persist despite your best efforts, it might be time to seek professional help. Consult with a professional dog trainer or your veterinarian for additional guidance and support.
Remember that accidents are a normal part of the potty training process, and the key to success is to stay patient and consistent. By following these tips, you can help your Shih Poo learn to go outside and enjoy a happy, accident-free life indoors.
Problem 3: Your Shih Poo Isn’t Learning as Quickly as You’d Like
It can be frustrating when your Shih Poo isn’t picking up on potty training as quickly as you’d like. There are several potential reasons why this might be happening. Here are some possible explanations and solutions:
Possible reasons:
- Your Shih Poo is easily distracted and forgets to go outside
- Your Shih Poo is afraid of going outside
- You are not providing enough positive reinforcement
- You are inconsistent with your training
Possible solutions:
- Try to limit your Shih Poo’s distractions when it’s time for a potty break. Use a consistent and clear command to signal when it’s time to go outside.
- If your Shih Poo seems scared to go outside, try to identify what might be causing the fear. It could be a scary noise or object in the yard. Work to eliminate or avoid the trigger if possible. You may need to start by simply sitting outside with your Shih Poo until they feel more comfortable.
- Be sure to provide plenty of positive reinforcement when your Shih Poo goes potty outside. This can include praise, treats, and playtime. Make sure the reinforcement occurs immediately after the potty break, so your Shih Poo associates the positive experience with going outside.
- Stick to a consistent schedule for potty breaks, even if it means adjusting your own schedule. Make sure everyone who interacts with your Shih Poo is on the same page and consistent with the training.
Remember, potty training takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your Shih Poo isn’t progressing as quickly as you’d like. If you remain consistent and use positive reinforcement, you’ll see progress eventually.
Solution 1: Be Patient and Consistent
When it comes to potty training your Shih Poo, it’s important to remember that every dog is different and learns at their own pace. One solution to common potty training problems is to simply be patient and consistent with your pup.
This means staying calm and avoiding punishment when accidents happen, and instead, rewarding your Shih Poo for successful potty breaks outside. It’s also essential to create a consistent routine and schedule for your pup to follow, so they know when it’s time to go outside and use the bathroom.
Here’s a handy table outlining some tips for being patient and consistent during potty training:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Stay Calm: | Remember that accidents happen, and it’s not your Shih Poo’s fault. Stay calm and avoid punishment, which could create fear and anxiety around potty breaks. |
| Reward Good Behavior: | When your Shih Poo successfully goes potty outside, give them a treat, playtime, or lots of praise. This positive reinforcement will help them associate going outside with good things. |
| Create a Consistent Routine: | Consistency is key when it comes to potty training. Establish a regular schedule for your pup to follow, including designated potty breaks throughout the day. |
| Use the Same Spot: | Designate a specific spot outside for your Shih Poo to use the bathroom, and always bring them to that spot. This will help them associate that area with potty breaks. |
| Be Patient: | Remember that potty training takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged, and keep working with your Shih Poo consistently to help them learn the ropes. |
By following these tips and remaining patient and consistent, you can help your Shih Poo succeed in their potty training journey. Remember to always stay positive and encouraging, and your pup will be using the bathroom outside in no time!
Solution 2: Go Back to Basics
One possible way to solve the problem of your Shih Poo not learning as quickly as you’d like is to go back to basics. This means revisiting the fundamental principles of potty training and re-establishing a routine that reinforces positive behavior. Here are some tips to help you with this approach:
| Tip | Description |
| 1. | Start over with crate training: If your Shih Poo is having frequent accidents inside the house, you may need to revisit crate training. Use a crate to restrict your puppy’s access to the house, and gradually increase the amount of time he is allowed out of the crate to play and explore. |
| 2. | Increase the frequency of potty breaks: If your Shih Poo is having accidents in the house, it may be because they are not getting outside often enough. Increase the frequency of potty breaks to every hour or so, and gradually decrease the frequency as your puppy demonstrates more consistent behavior. |
| 3. | Reinforce basic commands: If your Shih Poo is having trouble learning basic commands, like “sit” and “stay,” it may be wise to go back to basics with training. Take a break from potty training and focus on reinforcing basic obedience commands until your puppy is ready to re-engage with potty training. |
| 4. | Simplify your routine: If your potty training routine has become too complex or burdensome, simplify it. Set a schedule for regular potty breaks, use positive reinforcement consistently, and keep training sessions short and sweet to help your Shih Poo learn faster. |
| 5. | Try a different approach: If you’ve been using the same potty training approach for a while and it doesn’t seem to be working, try a different approach. Some Shih Poo puppies respond better to different types of training techniques, so be willing to experiment until you find what works best for your puppy. |
By going back to basics and refocusing your potty training efforts, you can help your Shih Poo overcome common potty training problems and learn faster. Remember to be patient and consistent, and always use positive reinforcement to reinforce good behavior.
Solution 3: Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement can be one of the most effective ways to potty train your Shih Poo. By rewarding your pup for good behavior, you are encouraging them to repeat that behavior in the future. Here are some ways to use positive reinforcement in your potty training routine:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Treats | Offer your Shih Poo a small treat immediately after they successfully use the designated potty spot outside. This will create a positive association with going potty outside and motivate them to continue doing so in the future. |
| Praise and Affection | Along with treats, offer praise and affection to your Shih Poo after they go potty outside. Use a happy, excited tone and give them lots of pets and love. This reinforces the idea that going potty outside is a good thing. |
| Clicker Training | A clicker is a small device that makes a clicking noise. The idea is to click the clicker when your Shih Poo goes potty outside, immediately followed by a treat and praise. This helps your pup associate the clicking noise with positive reinforcement, making it easier to train in the future. |
It’s important to note that every Shih Poo is different and may respond better to certain methods of positive reinforcement over others. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for your pup. Remember to always reward good behavior immediately and consistently, as this will help your Shih Poo understand what you are trying to teach them. Positive reinforcement is a great way to promote good behavior and encourage your Shih Poo to become fully potty trained.
Conclusion
In conclusion, successful potty training for your Shih Poo requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. It is important to establish a routine and designated potty spot, as well as to watch your dog’s diet and use a crate. Consistent potty breaks and the use of a designated word or phrase can also aid in the training process.
Furthermore, it is crucial to create positive associations and avoid punishing your Shih Poo. The use of a bell or door chime can also be helpful. Remember to stay consistent and avoid becoming frustrated when accidents happen, as they are a normal part of the learning process.
If you encounter any common potty training problems, such as your Shih Poo being scared to use the bathroom outside or having frequent accidents inside, be patient and consistent in addressing these issues. Going back to basics and using positive reinforcement can also aid in resolving these problems.
Overall, successful potty training requires a lot of effort and dedication from the owner. But with the right approach and mindset, it can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. Keep these tips in mind and don’t be afraid to seek guidance from a professional trainer if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age to start potty training my Shih Poo?
Most Shih Poo puppies are ready to start potty training at around 8 to 12 weeks of age.
How often should I take my Shih Poo outside to go potty?
You should take your Shih Poo outside every 2-3 hours during the day and once during the night until they are fully potty trained.
What should I do if my Shih Poo has an accident inside the house?
Do not punish your Shih Poo, instead clean up the mess thoroughly to prevent any future accidents in the same spot.
Can I use pee pads for potty training my Shih Poo?
It is recommended to not use pee pads as they create confusion for your Shih Poo between going potty inside and outside. However, if you choose to use them, make sure to gradually wean your Shih Poo off of them.
How do I know when my Shih Poo needs to go potty?
Watch for signs such as sniffing, circling or whining, they may also start pacing or staring at the door. Paying close attention to their behavior will help you anticipate their need to go potty.
Should I use treats to reinforce good potty behavior?
Yes, using treats to reward your Shih Poo’s good potty behavior is highly effective when paired with positive reinforcement.
Is it okay to crate my Shih Poo for extended periods of time during the day?
No, it is not recommended to leave your Shih Poo in the crate for extended periods of time. They should only be crated for short periods of time and taken out for potty breaks regularly.
What are some signs my Shih Poo may have a urinary tract infection?
Signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI) in dogs include frequent urination, excessive licking of their genital area, discolored urine, and a strong odor.
Can leaving water out all day help with potty training?
No, leaving water out all day can lead to your Shih Poo needing to urinate more frequently and make potty training more difficult. It is recommended to set specific times for water intake and potty breaks.
What should I do if my Shih Poo is not responding to positive reinforcement?
If your Shih Poo is not responding to positive reinforcement, it may be helpful to try a different reinforcement such as verbal praise or a different treat to see if that works better for them.
