If you are a dog owner, then you know that one of the most important things you can do for your pet is to create a safe and functional place for them to go to the bathroom. This can be done in a variety of ways, but today we are going to focus on how to create a doggy potty area in your backyard and also indoors.
Creating an Outdoor Area
To you, your lawn is a great big expanse of beautiful green. To your new canine friend, that big expanse of green is the perfect place for him or her to look around, then either lift a leg or sniff and squat.
For many owners, this will be fine. However, some owners do not like the yellow spots of dead grass that form after the dog keeps urinating in the same area.
To make sure your new best friend has a place to go that’s not all over the yard, you’ll have to create a self-contained space for him to use instead.
Make Sure It Is a Safe Area
Before you do anything, it is important to make sure that the area you choose for your pet’s bathroom is safe. You don’t want them wandering into traffic or getting lost, so be sure to pick an enclosed spot with a fence if you are doing it outdoors.
Proper Drainage is Essential
One of the most important things to consider when setting up your doggy potty area is proper drainage. Dogs are known for being messy and you don’t want their bathroom area turning into a mud pit.
Proper drainage will help prevent smells and make long term maintenance much easier. In addition to proper drainage, you can consider the grade of the ground. By sloping the ground away from your house, you can help prevent any leaks from seeping into your home.
Keep It Nearby
Let’s be honest, half of the trouble of taking care of a dog is the frequency at which you need to take it out. Make it less hassle on yourself by creating the potty area close to your home. This will also allow you to keep an eye on your pet while they are going, ensuring that they are following proper bathroom etiquette.
If you make the area too far, you will quickly become annoyed by having to take your dog for a walk every time they need to use the bathroom.
Also consider a spot that has some privacy so that you are not bothering your neighbors.
We recommend that you have a light fixture near this area so that it can light up the area during the evening hours. This way you won’t be searching for your dogs droppings in the dark.
If you live in a cold area, make sure the path leading up to the area can be salted or shoveled. In the winter months, you do not want to be slipping and sliding as you bring your dog to his area.
Materials to Use
The great thing about creating a doggy potty area is that you can be as creative as you want. There are a variety of materials out there to help make the process easier for both you and your pet.
For example, you can also use artificial turf which will help with drainage and keep things looking neat.
Fencing the Area
If you do not have a fence, you can use fencing to section off the area. This is also great if you have multiple dogs as it will keep them from fighting over territory.
You can also buy specific dog fences that are designed for potty areas. These fences come in different shapes and sizes so that you can find one that fits your needs.
Fencing the area or creating some type of boundary also helps delineate the space in your dog’s mind. This will make training them to go to the designated area much easier.
Training Your Dog to Go in The Correct Area
Dogs are creatures of habit. To train your dog to go in the area that you have designated for their bathroom, you will need to be consistent with them.
Whenever they go outside, take them to the potty area and praise them when they do their business there. If they start going in another spot, gently redirect them back to the correct area. Be sure not to yell at your dog or hit him as this will only confuse him.
It may take a little bit of time, but with patience and consistency, your dog will quickly learn where he is supposed to go.
Creating an Indoor Area
If you are unable to create an outdoor space for your pet or live in an apartment, then you can also create a indoor bathroom area for your furry friend. This can be done by using a baby gate to section off a small area of your home.
Make sure the space has some type of flooring (carpet, linoleum, etc) and put down a layer of newspapers or an indoor potty pad.
Just like with outdoor areas, you will need to be consistent with your dog and take him to this spot every time he needs to go. With a little bit of time and patience, your dog will start using this area as his primary bathroom spot.
Choose the Right Spot Indoors
If you are going to be using an indoor potty area for your dog, then you need to choose the right spot. The best place is usually in an out of the way corner where your pet will not be disturbed.
Make sure the space is relatively big as dogs do not like to feel cramped when they are trying to go to the bathroom.
The area should also be well-lit so that your pet can see what he is doing. This will help to prevent any accidents from happening.
Also, if possible, avoid putting the area next to their cage or crate. Dogs naturally like to keep their sleeping spaces clean and may be inclined to go elsewhere if it is too close to their living space.
Indoor Housetraining Can Be More Difficult
Dogs do not compartmentalize as humans do. For this reason, if you are training your dog with potty pads indoors, it can sometimes be a challenge.
One tip is to put the potty pad in an area where your dog spends a lot of time. This will help him to associate that spot with going to the bathroom.
You may also want to try using a scent marker like urine or lemon juice on the potty pad. This will help your dog understand that this is the correct place to go.
Consider a Doggy Door
If you are creating an indoor area just because you don’t want to take your dog out, you may consider getting a doggy door. This will give your pet the freedom to come and go as he pleases.
Just be sure to get one that is big enough for your dog to fit through comfortably. Also, make sure that the area outside is well-lit, so your dog doesn’t run into any trouble at night.
Now that you know how to create a safe and functional potty area for your dog, you can start training him right away! Be patient and consistent with them, and soon they will be using the designated spot like a pro. Happy housebreaking! 🙂
