When the temperatures drop, you are not alone in needing to bundle up. Many dogs have thick coats and fuzzy paws, making them well suited for the cold weather. However, some dogs prefer to stay inside where it is warm and cozy. Small dogs, dogs with short hair, older dogs, and dogs with illnesses such as diabetes, arthritis, and circulatory problems may feel uncomfortable going outdoors when it gets cold.
Regrettably, their toilet is located outside. And when that toilet is covered in ice and snow, their desire to use it might decrease considerably. It is unlikely that you appreciate sitting on a cold seat, correct? Is your furry friend reluctant to go outside during cold weather? Here is a step-by-step guide on teaching your dog to urinate outdoors in chilly conditions.
5 Tips to Get Your Dog to Go Outside in the Cold
Warm him up
In addition to the unwillingness to go outdoors, it is usually possible to identify when your dog is feeling chilly by observing its body movements. A chilly dog might exhibit noticeable shaking, whining, and occasionally display signs of sluggishness and reduced mobility.
If your dog shows any of these signs, attempt to enhance their comfort by acquiring a coat or sweater for them to wear during outdoor excursions. When searching for winter attire for your dog, ensure you consult the manufacturer’s size guide to obtain the correct fit. When uncertain, opt for the larger size. Seek a style that is easy to put on and remove, as well as one that can be washed, to simplify the process for both your furry friend and yourself.
Protect his paws
Along with buying a warm sweater or coat, it would be wise to think about purchasing booties as well. The reason for this is that chilly and snowy weather can potentially damage your dog’s paw pads and result in dry, irritated skin. The minimum consequence is that this sensation can intensify your dog’s coldness.
To determine if the cold weather is impacting your dog’s paws, observe his behavior when he ventures outdoors. If you observe him lifting his paws or shaking them to rid of rain or snow, it might be beneficial to consider investing in dog booties. When acquiring a pair for your furry companion, search for a waterproof brand that offers excellent traction, flexible soles, and adjustable Velcro straps.
Go with him
We are aware that the weather outside is cold. However, it is said that people in misery often find comfort in the company of others. Keep in mind that a dog relies on his sense of smell to locate a suitable place to relieve himself. Make a decision to dress accordingly, allowing you to remain outside for the duration it takes for him to find that spot. By putting in the additional effort, you will spare yourself the task of cleaning up any mishaps that your dog may have indoors due to his reluctance to go outside by himself.
If your dog likes walking, think about putting him on a leash even if it’s just for going outside in the backyard. While it might be too chilly for a walk around the neighborhood, simply seeing the leash could make it easier for him to do his business, knowing he’ll have some company during that time.
Entice him with treats
If your dog is motivated by food, think about including a couple of his preferred treats in your pocket when you go outside. Offer him one when he steps out and another right after he finishes relieving himself. It’s important to note that this method only works if he gets the treat immediately after he’s done. This implies that you will need to stand nearby, as otherwise, he won’t comprehend the relationship between going to the bathroom and getting the treat.
No matter how much your dog enjoys treats, it is equally gratifying to know that he has pleased his favorite human. Do not forget to give praise.
Clear a spot
If you have a backyard or a shared space, make an effort to locate a covered and transparent area for your dog to relieve itself. This could involve clearing a path in the snow and exposing a small section of grass, or constructing a designated area with garden timbers and pebbles or sand on the back patio.
Training your dog to pee outside regardless of the temperature is important not only for hygiene but also for their health. Dogs that hold their urine for extended periods or do not fully empty their bladders while urinating are vulnerable to urinary tract infections, which can result in bladder stones and kidney damage.
Although your dog might never be a fan of winter weather, if you put in some effort and provide positive reinforcement, he will at least be willing to go outside promptly to relieve himself. Afterwards, both of you can snuggle up next to the fire and envision the arrival of warmer days.
BONUS: How to Train Your Dog to Use a Porch Potty
Late in the evening, it’s freezing and raining outside. Despite your love for your dog, you are reluctant to go out in the terrible weather for him to relieve himself. This makes waking up early during winter months a chilling ordeal. There must be a solution to this problem. Fortunately, there is one: a porch potty. With this, you can easily let your dog out in the morning and evening, reducing the time spent on this task and eliminating the cold.
Training your dog to use a porch potty will make you wonder how you managed without it and will also benefit your dog. It will eliminate the need for your dog to wait for you outside in bad weather while you gather courage.
Getting Started
In order to amend his routine, it is necessary to gather a few items beforehand. Primarily, a porch potty will be the initial crucial element. Furthermore, a sufficient supply of his preferred food or treats is also imperative to incentivize him.
In addition, it is essential to allocate time for being present to accompany him to the porch potty in the morning and evening until he becomes familiar with it. Therefore, exhibiting both patience and a proactive mindset will also be necessary.
Once you have completed the previous task, it is time to start working.
The Encouragement Method
Take the time to carefully consider each step in the thought process.
Setting up
To ensure your porch potty is convenient, place it in a spot that is easy to reach. If possible, choose a location that offers some level of privacy for your pet. The more secure and cozy the area is, the faster your pet will adjust and use the new toilet.
Consistency
If you anticipate that he will need to use the toilet in the next 20 minutes, tether him to a leash and bring him to his porch potty. By consistently being present when he needs to use the toilet, he will be compelled to utilize it. If you frequently allow him to relieve himself during walks, he will not adapt to his designated toilet area.
Encouragement
When you take him outside, make sure to give him sufficient space. It’s important not to stare at him as he needs some room to do his business. If you want to motivate him, gently point towards the toilet and speak in a soft tone.
Reward
Reward your dog with a treat and praise immediately after he uses his new porch potty, in order to establish a positive association with it. Offering high-quality rewards increases the likelihood that he will choose to use it again in the future.
Lose the treats
After one or two weeks, once he becomes familiar with his new toilet, you can gradually reduce the treats. It is not recommended for him to gain excess weight as he no longer requires the motivation.
The Familiarization Method
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Introduce him
Before taking a walk, place the porch potty and allow him time to adjust to it for a few days. While taking your walk, walk by the potty and give him an opportunity to explore and become familiar with it. It is possible that he may begin using it immediately!
Long leash
Step by step, when it is time for the toilet, ensure that he is attached to a long leash in the yard, ensuring that the potty is easily accessible for him. In due course, he will come to understand that the porch potty is the preferable choice available. Afterward, you can proceed to indicate it and offer him some encouragement.
Yesterday’s toilet
If he is having difficulty going, try wiping some of yesterday’s feces on the porch potty. The scent of the previous toilet will calm him down and improve his likelihood of going in the new location.
Reward
If he uses the porch potty, give him a rewarding experience such as his preferred food, a few minutes of playtime with his favorite toy, or simply some attention from his owner. The more content he feels after this, the greater likelihood that he will return to the porch potty.
Never pressure him
If you push him too hard, he might get nervous and not be able to perform at all. Although you may be excited for him to begin using it, the more relaxed he is, the faster you will notice progress.
