When you potty train a puppy, you are constantly on alert for when they need to go outside. By installing a doggy door and teaching your pet how to use it, you give your pet the ability to come and go as they please…quite literally.
Prepare the Doggy Door and Your Puppy for Potty Training
It is helpful to corral the doggy door with a set of baby gates before introducing your pet to it. This approach will promote a training regimen where your furry friend can only pass in and out of the doggy door. Through consistent conditioning and practice, your pet will eventually learn to utilize the doggy door whenever they need to relieve themselves or venture outside.
Get Puppy's Attention Outdoors
NThe next step is easy. Simply walk outside of where the doggy door exits your home. If your puppy comes easily, that is great, they are already comfortable using their new doggy door. Now be able to direct them out the door when they get the call from nature.
If your pet is skittish, fearful, or not sure what to do next, it’s time to move on to the next step.
Provide Encouragement for Dog Potty Training
For some puppies, a new environment in your home is already overly stimulating and they may struggle with staying focused when trying to use the new pet door. Never force your dog or cat into using the pet door by pushing them. Be gentle and always proceed slowly.
Consider what positive reinforcement your pet will respond to best when potty training. Treats and rewards that are offered on the other side of the door when dog potty training along with praise and pets can go a long way. Sometimes just the smell of your dog's favorite treat and seeing you on the other side of the door will do the trick.
When teaching your furry friend how to use a dog door, it is important to consider which methods of positive reinforcement they respond best to during potty training. Offering treats and rewards on the other side of the door, along with verbal praise and affection for your pets, can greatly aid in the process. Simply the scent of your pup's favorite treat and the sight of you on the other side of the door may be enough to encourage them.
How to Potty Train a Puppy
How to Train Your Dog to Use a Dog Door
Now that you have your puppy walking through the dog door on their own, it is time to potty train your puppy. You can also remove the gates and give them free rein to come and go through the doggy door.
If you are using a potty pad inside, move the potty pad to the outside area beyond the doggy door. When your puppy shows signs of needing to use the potty, encourage them to go through the door. Now provide praise, treats, or rewards whenever your puppy makes it to the potty successfully.
The time to end the rewards is when they come to you expecting a treat after they have gone outside to the puppy potty. You can pat yourself on the back for how you have potty trained your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Train Your Dog to Use a Dog Door
- Introduce your dog to the dog door: First, introduce your dog to the dog door without opening the flap. Encourage your dog to approach the door and give him some treats near the door to motivate him to go closer.
- Use a leash: Next, put your dog on a leash and open the flap to the dog door. Gently pull the leash, so your dog is guided through the door. Give your dog lots of praise and treats for going through or even putting their face through the flap.
- Encourage your dog to use the door independently: Once your dog is comfortable going through the door with the leash, let him try it independently. Try holding the flap open and calling your dog from the other side to come through. Again, reward him with treats and praise.
- Practice: Practice is the key to success. Repeat the steps above several times per day until your dog learns to use the dog door independently.
- Keep providing positive reinforcement: Even when your dog is using the dog door successfully, continue to motivate him with treats and praise. This reinforcement will help him associate positive feelings with using the dog door.
Secondly, the type of dog door you have can also affect the learning process. Some doors are simpler and easier to use, while others may require more coordination or strength from your dog. Make sure to choose a door that is appropriate for your dog's size and abilities.
Generally, it may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for your dog to fully learn how to use the door. Start by introducing your dog to the door slowly, allowing them to sniff and investigate it at their own pace. Encourage them with treats and praise when they approach the door and gently guide them through it if needed.
Consistency is key when teaching your dog to use the door. Make sure to follow a regular routine of using the door with your dog, and gradually increase the amount of time they spend using it. With patience and persistence, your dog will soon be using the door with ease, giving them the freedom to come
- The size of the dog door: It is essential to select a pet door that matches your dog's size. A door that is too small can cause discomfort and injury. Similarly, a door that is too large can make your dog anxious and wary of using it.
- Supervise your dog: Keep a close eye on your dog during the training process. This will help you identify any problems that your dog may have with the door and address them promptly.
- Avoid forcing your dog: Do not force your dog through the door. This can create fear and make the process much more difficult. Instead, take your time and be patient with your furry friend.
- Ensure that the door is securely installed.
Get a Sliding Glass Doggy Door for Puppy Potty Training
So where can you get a secure doggy door for glass? Check out Pet Door Products. We sell the best pet doors designed exclusively for sliding glass doors and windows. You can choose between our DIY easy-to-install doggie door insert or a custom replacement sliding glass door with a dog door built-in along with our professional installation service.
Energy-Efficient Pet Doors for Sliding Glass Doors
Learn more about Pet Door Products and our energy-efficient solutions for sliding glass doors outfitted for puppy potty training. Get a free quote today by texting or calling 801-973-8000.
By the way, our doors are great for cats and other small household pets including snakes, turtles, gerbils, and other pocket pets.
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