Whether you are in Orange County or elsewhere in the world you need to potty train your pup to go somewhere other than your floors. Your veterinarian can give you some advice, but there is somethings that you have to do all on your own.
Teaching little Rover to use the potty where you want them to takes patience, attentiveness, commitment, and uniformity. You have to watch for the signals that your pup is about to go then guide them in the right direction. Expect accidents because there will be quite a few.
There are a few options other than your floors available to you. You can either use papers, pads, or the great outdoors. Paper is alright, but they aren’t as absorbent as pads. They will likely still have you cleaning your floors. Pads are a great option for small dogs that you plan to keep indoors. Taking them outside is also an option, but this could be a problem if your dogs are indoors while you are at work.
Photo by Bad Apple Photography.
For paper or pad training there are a few basic ways to ensure Fido’s success. First, restrict where they can go in the house. Lay the pads and paper down, and then watch your pup. When they look like they are about to go potty pick them up, and put them on the pad or paper while saying “Go potty.” Keep doing this until they go on their own. Once they have it down pat you can allow access to the rest of the house.
Teaching them to go outside is also easy. Pick a spot outside then establish a routine. A puppy can maintain control for one hour for each month of age. After that you are almost guaranteed to have an accident. Take your pup out every two hours. Also, take them right after they wake up, after eating or drinking, and during and after playing.
Regardless of whether you use paper, pads, or the outdoors reward Fluffy for doing a good job. Put them on a regular feeding schedule. Don’t forget that regardless of if you are in Orange County, or somewhere else, it is important to consult your veterinarian when making decisions for your pet.