We have had great success using potty pads. The first key is make it easy for them to use, and in a place that they seem familiar with/is convenient. Ours always drifted towards doorways, so we picked a door, and that became the "potty" door. We tried boxes, litter boxes, and about 5 places before we put the pad by the door.
Second, positive reward. When the puppy went on the pad, we gave her a treat and a "puppy party" (lots of praise, petting, etc). When she didn't go on the pad, we moved her over to the pad and barricaded the exits for a minute or two, while saying "Lacey, go potty." If she went on the pad then, puppy party would ensue.
It took a week or two, but she caught on.
Couple other tips:
- If you already see the mess, it is too late. Don't scold the dog, cause they won't know what they did wrong. If you catch them in the middle of the act, either spray them with a squirt bottle (filled w/ water), or find a gentle way of disturbing them, saying "No. Potty over here" as you move them over to the new area. This is most effective if you see the "potty signs" and you can get them over to their area quickly.
- Do not yell, shout, clap really loud, or do things to scare the dog while they are going. They may develop a fear of you, and go potty upon seeing you.
Hope this helps. |