Feb
11
2016

House Training

by Nicole Rogers

Can I allow my new dog to run loose outside?

Dogs who go outdoors unprotected can be injured by cars, exposed to toxins, get lost, and attacked by other dogs.  In addition, these dogs are more likely to be infected with intestinal worms, heartworms, fleas, bacteria and fungus.  Keep your dog safely secured with a collar or harness and leash.  Make sure the collar is tight enough that it cannot slip over her head.   Also make sure your dog can be identified by a microchip, ID tag, or collar with name and number.

  • Rivet-On custom engraved dog ID tag
  • Go Tags Custom Embroidered Collars
  • Lucky Pet ID tag bone shape custom engraved dog tags
  • HomeAgain Microchip Implant Kit for Administration by Veterinarian
  • QR Code Pet ID tag Accessory w/Smartphone GPS Tracking

Can I allow my senior dog to go out into my fenced yard by herself?

The first time you should definitely go out with her and watch her very carefully to make sure she has no intention of digging under or climbing over the fence.  Watch her through a window for a few days to confirm this.  You should only allow her out unattended if your fence is very secure.   

  • Ideal Pet Products Pet Door with Telescoping Frame
    • allows your dog to go outside whenever he needs to in your absence.   Always lock it at night to keep your dog safely inside 
  • Friendly Pet Products Wireless Dog Fence
  • Perimeter Technologies Wire-Free Wifi Dog Fence
    • technology to reinforce or replace a physical fence

Does my dog need a collar or harness for leash walking?

Depending on the size of your dog, putting pressure on the trachea with only a collar and a leash, causing the potential to pull, is dangerous and can cause the trachea to collapse. The safest option is to use a harness, no matter what your dog’s weight, size, or leash walking manners are.

How often should I take my senior dog out to eliminate?

Certain medical issues and special diets may cause your dog to need to urinate or defecate more often than normal.  Be sure to discuss this with your veterinarian so you can provide for your senior dog's special needs, if any.  Normal, healthy dogs should go out every 6-8 hours and be able to hold it overnight. 

Why is my dog having accidents in the house?

Senior dogs might have to urinate more often, and therefore will have a harder time “holding it” until potty time.

Why is my dog straining to defecate?

Older dogs often develop constipation and/or diarrhea sometimes as the result of a medical issue.

Can I train my senior dog to use a litter box, artificial turf or a pee pad indoors?

Senior dogs may have a difficult time adapting to a brand new location for elimination.  It is best to continue to use whatever location the dog is already used to, especially at first.  You may need to consult a canine behaviorist in order to change habits that are long-standing.

  • PoochPad Reusable Potty Pads for Mature Dogs
    • large and extra absorbent
  • PetZoom Pet Park Indoor Pet potty
    • synthetic grass material that looks and feels real
  • Lowes large plastic storage containers
    • cut an opening for your small dog to enter and exit . Fill with sand or cat litter