Australian Terriers are a small breed of dog that are known for their energetic and playful personalities. They are loyal and affectionate towards their owners, and make great family pets. However, like all breeds of dogs, Australian Terriers can be difficult to potty train. In this article, we will explore the reasons why Australian Terriers can be hard to potty train and provide tips on how to successfully train your Australian Terrier.
Reasons Why Australian Terriers Can be Hard to Potty Train
There are several reasons why Australian Terriers can be hard to potty train. One reason is that they have a small bladder, which means they need to go to the bathroom more frequently than larger breeds of dogs. Additionally, Australian Terriers are known for being stubborn and independent, which can make them resistant to training.
Another reason why Australian Terriers can be hard to potty train is that they are highly energetic and easily distracted. They may become so focused on playing or exploring their surroundings that they forget to go to the bathroom. Additionally, Australian Terriers are known for being sensitive to changes in their environment, such as moving to a new home or experiencing a change in routine. These changes can disrupt their potty training routine and make it more difficult to train them.
Tips for Potty Training Your Australian Terrier
Despite their stubborn and independent nature, Australian Terriers can be successfully potty trained with patience and consistency. Here are some tips to help you potty train your Australian Terrier:
Establish a routine: Establishing a consistent routine is important for potty training your Australian Terrier. Take your dog outside to go to the bathroom at regular intervals throughout the day, such as first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime.
Use positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is a key part of potty training any dog, including Australian Terriers. When your dog goes to the bathroom outside, praise them and give them a treat. This will help them associate going to the bathroom outside with positive rewards.
Use a designated potty area: Designate a specific area outside for your Australian Terrier to go to the bathroom. This will help them learn that this is the appropriate place to go to the bathroom.
Monitor your dog’s behavior: Watch your Australian Terrier for signs that they need to go to the bathroom, such as sniffing or circling. When you notice these signs, take them outside immediately.
Be patient: Potty training can take time, especially with stubborn breeds like Australian Terriers. Be patient and consistent with your training, and don’t get discouraged if your dog has accidents.
Consider crate training: Crate training can be an effective way to potty train your Australian Terrier. Dogs naturally avoid going to the bathroom in their sleeping area, so keeping your dog in a crate when you can’t supervise them can help prevent accidents.
Avoid punishment: Punishing your Australian Terrier for accidents can actually make potty training more difficult. Dogs don’t understand punishment in the same way that humans do, and it can lead to fear and anxiety. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and consistency.
Use a command: Using a specific command, such as “go potty” or “do your business,” can help your Australian Terrier understand what you want them to do. Use this command consistently when you take them outside to go to the bathroom.
Use a leash: Using a leash can help keep your Australian Terrier focused and prevent them from getting distracted when you take them outside to go to the bathroom. It can also help you guide them to the designated potty area.
Clean up accidents thoroughly: If your Australian Terrier has an accident inside, it’s important to clean it up thoroughly to remove any scent. Dogs are more likely to go to the bathroom in the same spot if they can smell their own urine or feces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Australian Terriers can be hard to potty train due to their small bladder, stubborn nature, and energetic personality. However, with patience and consistency, it is possible to successfully potty train your Australian Terrier. Establishing a routine, using positive reinforcement, and monitoring your dog’s behavior are all important parts of potty training. Additionally, crate training can be an effective way to prevent accidents. Avoiding punishment, using a command, using a leash, and cleaning up accidents thoroughly are also important tips for potty training your Australian Terrier. With proper training and care, Australian Terriers can be well-behaved and obedient pets.
