August 2009 - How to Train a Dog to Use a Litter Box

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AUGUST 2009

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TRAINING A DOG TO USE A LITTER BOX

Can dogs really learn to use a litter box? Sure! Dog box training probably isn't something you'd find dog owners regularly talking about, and although it may be unusual, it does have some advantages. Plus dog box training can be done at home, by any patient and positive dog owner.

Likely one of the biggest advantages to litter box training your dog is the added freedom: your dog can go any time he needs to, even when you're not at home. It's convenient for your pup, and gives you more freedom to stay out longer (ever rushed home because you had to let the dog out?). Of course, since using the litter box doesn't come as naturally to a dog as it does to a cat, you will need to be prepared for several weeks of training plus an additional couple of months of monitoring and reinforcement.

It's beyond the scope of this article to advise you on litter box training, but there are a number of good articles & books that can do so. In general, though, here are a few things to think about:

• Obviously you'll need a litter box. Get a jumbo cat box, or look specifically for one made for dogs. You may need to modify the box to suit your needs. You want high sides (to prevent "streaks" from male dogs lifting the leg), but an open top so that it's easier to clean. Yes, large dogs can use boxes too! Try using a large plastic storage bin (modified to give your dog easy access to the inside). Or build your own box if you're a do-it-yourselfer.

• You'll need some type of filler. Some people use the clumping cat litter, but many dogs are only too fond of "litter box crunchies"! Consider using other materials such as shredded newspaper, or even "puppy training pads". These are scent pads used to encourage dogs to eliminate on them. They're available in many pet supply stores or online.

• Get a real big scoop for cleaning out the waste. Enough said.

• For convenience, you may wish to put a heavy-duty garbage can that contains odors. Line it with a tough bag, and whenever you clean out the box you can dump it in the garbage can.

• Clean, clean, clean. Dogs don't like to use a filthy litter box, so scoop regularly. Once a month or so, give the box a thorough cleaning.

• Also make sure you have lots of cleaning supplies on hand. Get paper towels, odor and stain removers, bleach, etc. Accidents will happen!

• Be consistent (and patient!). Dogs learn by being rewarded when they do something right. Reinforce the behavior you want (eliminating in the litter box), and monitor it carefully. If your dog relapses, start the training over again.

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For more articles on dog training tips and dog behavior , visit www.scamperingpaws.com.

SCOOTER, THE TWO-LEGGED DOG

"I wanted to share with you the story of my precious little dog Scooter. He was born with his two front legs missing. One day I received a phone call from my aunt who raises hairless chihuahuas. She informed me that one of her dogs had three pups and that two of them were missing their front legs. After a few hours, one of the pups passed on but the other seemed to be doing okay. She figured no one would want the little guy.

I told her that we would take him. I have a child with special needs and figured it would be good for her to have a "special" dog like her. I took the pup, hoping I could give him a somewhat normal life. We had no idea what was in store for us. We picked Scooter up at around 6 weeks. He was only about 10 ounces and very gray in color and looked terrible."

[ Continue reading... ]

UPCOMING PET EVENTS

• Sunday, August 29, 2009: Victoria, BC - Furever After Small Dog Rescue is holding the Dog Days of Summer Dinner & Auction Fundraiser at the Pacific Fleet Club in Victoria. More info

• Saturday, September 12, 2009: Burnaby, BC - SAINTS is having its 3rd Annual Wishes for Whiskers Silent Auction Fundraiser, featuring a live auction and a full course meal. SAINTS is an end-of-life sanctuary for senior and special needs animals that have nowhere else to go. More info

• Sunday, September 13, 2009: Victoria, BC - the BC SPCA and Wild ARC are jointly running the 2009 Paws for a Cause event to raise awareness and funds for the animals in their care. More info

• Sunday, September 13, 2009: Ottawa, Ontario - the Ottawa Humane society is holding their 21st annual Wiggle Waggle Walkathon. More info

• September 19 & 20, 2009: Charlottetown, PEI - the PEI Humane Society is holding the first-ever PEI Pet Expo at the Crapaud Actiplex. More info

If your non-profit pet organization is holding an event, please send us the details!

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