I have a 6 month old pomchi and an 11 month old yorkie. They are potty trained to go on their puppy pad. And they also go on command. I am wanting to try to get them potty trained outside how. And I don't mind having the puppy pad too, just in case they need it if I don't get to take them out in time. I have a few questions on how to start outside training.
1. Should I take them out often in the beginning? Right now I have them go on command if they haven't gone within an hour. Should I do the same, or more often?
Taking them out often is a good start. Implement the same commands since it's familiar to them.
2. Is it ok to take them out at the same time?
If you can handle taking both at the same time, yes.
3. Should I put one of their soiled pads (I use washable) outside in the spot where I want them to go, or should I just take them to the same spot and have them go on command without a pad?
Personally, I think it's better to just go to the same spot you want them to go without the pad.
4. If I wanted to do away with the puppy pad, do I totally take it away, or will that just cause them to potty in the area where it used to be? (It's on carpet on a puppy pad holder) Or should I leave it there for a while until they start going to the door?
Do you have more than 1 pad out? If so, take away 1 pad at a time in duration. If it's just 1 pad, then I'd suggest you leave it out for a while till your pups understand they need to hold till they go outside. Perhaps closing the distance between the pad and the door slowly.
5. Can I actually train them to only go outside after learning to go on puppy pads? Or will it be too confusing if I leave a pad down?
Magnus was originally trained to go on pads but now he only goes outside. Unless he's not feeling well or if he wasn't let out for a loooong period of time and couldn't hold it anymore. I also leave 1 pad out for Zoey since she's only 5.5 lbs, she can't hold it for as long. Doesn't seem to confuse Magnus though.
Any advice will be greatly appreciated.
