In my opinion for those asking about potty training on the pads and outdoors, it can happen. My 2 have been pad and outdoor trained ever since we've had them. Our working hours were inconsistent so I wanted to make sure they were able to potty if we wound up being late. My 2 do not have any problems with using both methods. It took Maggie longer to figure out that she could poo outdoors but she did eventually figure it out.
For those who feel that they cannot leave them loose while needing to tend to other things, have you tried tethering your baby to you with a leash? This will keep them from wandering the house and finding a spot to do their business.
Patience, diligence and consistency are the things you need to keep in mind. While we put the pad down for them, they have no idea that they are supposed to pee or poop on this. Remember, for the first weeks of life, they were au natural, peeing and pooping mid step whenever and wherever they needed to go. You must keep in mind that it's not a natural thing for dogs to pee or poop on a pad or paper, it's a learned thing. Given the freedom to roam large areas will make it more difficult for you to keep an eye on their habits. I had actually read somewhere that you should try and write down things about your dog to keep up with their signals and times they pee or poop. Yes, it is more difficult if you work long hours, but what you teach your dog goes a long way...if you are consistent with praising and treating for good behaviour, then they will continue to learn that this is what you want and they will want to please you.
I personally feel that ignoring the bad behaviour and praising the good goes much further. My trainer kept saying over and over..."set your dog up for success, not failure". If you are patient, diligent and consistent, your dog will learn much better and more than likely, more quickly. If you give them mixed signals, they will only be confused and more likely to not learn a thing. You will be frustrated and probably not follow thru with patience, diligence or consistency.
As for separation anxiety, try leaving a radio or tv. Leave a blanket or shirt with your scent in the pen with your dog so he can bond and smell your scent. |