[Teresa Ford]

Originally Posted by kjc

The absolute main thing with potty training is to catch them pottying on the pad, or whereever you want, then massive praise (like they've never heard before) and a great treat and petting as soon as they're done. Also as they are finishing the potty, add the command 'Go potty' or whatever term you choose to use. But use the same term each time.


Normally the key times he'll have to 'Go potty' are when he awakes in the AM, after naps, after a meal, after a play time, after home grooming, and before bedtime. Exercise can also stimulate them to have to relieve themselves. Start with offering him the opportunity to 'Go Potty' every hour or two, then increase the amount of time inbetween as he becomes more trustworthy. (You may need to start this on a weekend when you are home, and plan for two days or more of intensive training.

Yorkies will learn faster through 'positive training' which basically means rewarding them when they do a good thing, as opposed to any kind of verbal or physical punishment. Once they 'learn' what makes you happy, they will repeat that action because they want to please us so badly. (or they like treats, lol)

Well said and I agree. I do think tethering is a good idea and we have found it works really well with older rescues that need to be potty trained.