Potty training your Pomeranian is a crucial part of ensuring a harmonious household. Pomeranians are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with the right approach. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step method to effectively potty train your Pomeranian, using positive reinforcement and consistent routines.
Understanding Pomeranian Behavior
Before starting the potty training process, it’s important to understand some key characteristics of Pomeranians:
- Intelligence: Pomeranians are smart dogs who quickly pick up on new commands and routines.
- Size: Their small size means they have small bladders, requiring more frequent potty breaks.
- Eagerness to Please: They thrive on positive reinforcement and enjoy making their owners happy.
Setting Up for Success
1. Choose a Potty Area
Decide on a specific spot outside where you want your Pomeranian to do their business. Consistency is key, so always take them to this spot.
2. Use a Crate
Crate training can be an effective method for potty training. Dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area, so a crate helps establish bladder control.
3. Establish a Routine
A consistent schedule helps your Pomeranian understand when it’s time to go potty. Feed them at the same times each day and take them out shortly after meals.
4. Gather Supplies
Have the necessary supplies ready, including a crate, leash, treats, and cleaning products for accidents.
Steps to Potty Train Your Pomeranian
1. Introduce the Crate
Make the crate a positive place for your Pomeranian. Use treats and praise to encourage them to enter the crate willingly. Start with short periods and gradually increase the time they spend in the crate.
2. Set a Potty Schedule
Take your Pomeranian outside to their designated potty area:
- First thing in the morning
- After meals
- After playtime
- Before bedtime
- Every 2-3 hours during the day
3. Use a Command
Choose a command such as “Go potty” or “Do your business” to associate with the act of going potty. Use this command consistently when you take them to their designated area.
4. Positive Reinforcement
When your Pomeranian goes potty outside, immediately reward them with treats and praise. This positive reinforcement helps them associate going potty outside with a positive outcome.
5. Monitor and Supervise
Keep a close eye on your Pomeranian, especially when they are inside the house. Look for signs that they need to go, such as sniffing around, circling, or whining. Take them outside immediately if you notice these behaviors.
6. Handle Accidents Calmly
Accidents will happen. When they do, clean them up without scolding your dog. Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove any scent, preventing your Pomeranian from going in the same spot again.
Crate Training in Detail
1. Choose the Right Size
The crate should be large enough for your Pomeranian to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they have room to use one end as a bathroom.
2. Introduce Gradually
Start by placing treats and toys inside the crate to encourage your Pomeranian to explore it. Gradually increase the time they spend inside with the door closed, always rewarding calm behavior.
3. Establish a Routine
Use the crate for naps and overnight sleep. Take your Pomeranian outside to their potty area immediately after letting them out of the crate.
House Training Without a Crate
If you prefer not to use a crate, you can still successfully potty train your Pomeranian with consistent supervision and routine.
1. Use a Leash
Keep your Pomeranian on a leash and near you at all times when indoors. This prevents them from sneaking off to have accidents and allows you to take them outside quickly if you see signs they need to go.
2. Create a Potty Schedule
Follow the same schedule as with crate training, taking your Pomeranian outside frequently and using a command to prompt them to go.
3. Designate a Potty Area Indoors
If you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor access, consider setting up a designated potty area indoors using puppy pads or artificial grass.
Tips for Success
1. Be Patient
Potty training takes time and consistency. Be patient and stay positive, even when accidents happen.
2. Consistent Feeding Schedule
Feed your Pomeranian at the same times each day to regulate their potty needs. Avoid free-feeding, as this can make it harder to predict when they need to go.
3. Use High-Value Treats
Use small, tasty treats that your Pomeranian loves as rewards for going potty outside. This makes the experience more rewarding for them.
4. Keep a Potty Journal
Keep a record of when your Pomeranian eats, drinks, and goes potty. This can help you identify patterns and adjust the schedule as needed.
5. Watch for Signs
Learn to recognize your Pomeranian’s signals that they need to go potty, such as sniffing, circling, or whining. Respond quickly by taking them outside.
Dealing with Common Challenges
1. Regression
It’s common for dogs to regress in their training occasionally. If this happens, go back to the basics and reinforce the training with more frequent potty breaks and positive reinforcement.
2. Submissive Urination
Some Pomeranians may urinate when they are excited or scared. In these cases, work on building their confidence and creating calm greetings.
3. Marking Behavior
If your Pomeranian starts marking inside the house, consider having them spayed or neutered. Marking is often a territorial behavior that can be reduced by altering their hormones.
Gradual Freedom
As your Pomeranian becomes more reliable in their potty training, you can gradually give them more freedom around the house. Start by allowing them access to one room at a time, and always supervise to ensure they are not having accidents.
1. Increase Freedom Slowly
As your Pomeranian consistently goes potty outside, slowly increase their access to other areas of the house. Continue to supervise and take them out regularly.
2. Reinforce Training
Even as you give your Pomeranian more freedom, continue to reinforce their potty training with regular potty breaks and positive reinforcement.
3. Be Consistent
Consistency is key to successful potty training. Stick to the routine and reinforce positive behaviors to ensure long-term success.
See also: How to Teach Your Golden Retriever Puppy Not to Bite
Conclusion
Potty training your Pomeranian requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By establishing a routine, using a crate or constant supervision, and rewarding good behavior, you can effectively potty train your Pomeranian and create a clean, harmonious living environment. Remember that accidents are a normal part of the process, and staying positive and patient will lead to success. With dedication and the right approach, your Pomeranian will learn to potty in the right place and become a well-behaved member of your household.
