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Potty training a Bernese Mountain Dog is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. However, it can be a challenging task for many dog owners, especially if they are not familiar with the breed. Proper training can ensure that your Bernese Mountain Dog is well-behaved and eliminated in appropriate areas. But how can you achieve this quickly and efficiently? In this article, we will reveal seven secrets to potty training your Bernese Mountain Dog, helping you establish good habits, and set your pup up for success. These tips will help you understand the unique needs of this breed and create a strong bond with your furry friend.
Note: While the tips below should be very helpful for potty training your Bernese Mountain Dog, you may consider seeking the help of a professional online dog training course such as SpiritDog or K9 Training Institute, two of our favorite training resources for potty training.
1. Start Potty Training Your Bernese Mountain Dog Early and Be Consistent
The sooner you begin potty training your Bernese Mountain Dog, the better. Puppies can start learning as early as eight weeks old, and it’s easier for them to pick up good habits at this young age. Consistency is also crucial. Choose a designated potty spot outdoors and always bring your Bernese Mountain Dog to that same area. Stick to a routine, and take them out frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Your dog will associate the spot with going potty, and the consistent schedule will help reinforce the behavior.
2. Give Your Bernese Mountain Dog Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. When your Bernese Mountain Dog successfully goes potty outside, offer praise, treats, or playtime as a reward. This will help your dog associate going to the bathroom outside with positive experiences, making them more likely to repeat the behavior. Make sure to reward them immediately after they finish, as dogs have a short memory and may not connect the reward with the action if there’s a delay.
3. Monitor Your Bernese Mountain Dog’s Behavior
Pay attention to your Bernese Mountain Dog’s body language and habits, as they can give you clues when they need to go. Common signs include sniffing, circling, whining, or scratching at the door. If you notice any of these behaviors, take your dog outside immediately. In time, you’ll be able to anticipate your dog’s needs, preventing accidents before they happen.
RELATED: Need to potty train your Bernese Mountain Dog quickly? Try this affordable online course
4. Confine Your Bernese Mountain Dog to a Small Area
When you’re not able to supervise your Bernese Mountain Dog, confine them to a small, designated area or crate. Dogs are naturally clean animals and don’t like to soil their living space. By limiting their space, you encourage them to hold it until they can go outside. Make sure the crate is large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another.
5. Gradually Increase Your Bernese Mountain Dog’s Freedom
As your Bernese Mountain Dog becomes more reliable in their potty training, you can gradually increase their freedom in the house. Start by allowing them access to one additional room, and monitor their behavior closely. If they continue to have accidents, return to the smaller confinement area and try again later. Gradually expanding their space will help them learn to hold it until they’re outside, even when they’re not in a confined area.
6. Try Using Potty Bells
Potty bells can be a useful tool to let your Bernese Mountain Dog know they are ready to be taken outside to the bathroom. Teach your Bernese Mountain Dog to ring the bell with their paw or nose before exiting the door that leads to its potty area. There are many types of potty bells available on Amazon, such as this:
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7. Be Patient with Your Bernese Mountain Dog and Stay Positive
Potty training can be a frustrating process, but it’s essential to stay patient and maintain a positive attitude. Dogs can sense your emotions, and if you’re stressed or angry, it can hinder your progress. Remember that accidents will happen, but don’t punish your Bernese Mountain Dog for them. Instead, clean up the mess thoroughly to remove any lingering odors that may encourage your dog to eliminate in the same spot again. If you find yourself getting frustrated, take a step back and remind yourself that consistency, patience, and positivity are key.
8. Try an Online Dog Potty Training Course
If you’ve tried everything and your Bernese Mountain Dog is still having accidents or showing no progress, it may be time to consult a professional dog trainer.
Our 2 favorite online courses are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Mastering Potty Training” Course
This affordable course uses science-based and “fear-free” tactics to potty train your Bernese Mountain Dog quickly. You’re allowed to ask the trainer unlimited questions and it comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just a potty training course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions About Housebreaking a Bernese Mountain Dog
How do I know when my Bernese Mountain Dog needs to go potty?
Bernese Mountain Dogs usually show signs like pacing, circling, sniffing, and whining when they need to go potty. They may also stand at the door or stare at you. You can also establish a schedule for taking them outside, like after meals or naps.
At what age should I begin potty training a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy?
Potty training should begin as early as possible, usually between 8-12 weeks of age. Early training and socialization are crucial for Bernese Mountain Dogs as they are intelligent and trainable but can also be stubborn.
How can I potty train an adult Bernese Mountain Dog?
The same principles used for potty training a puppy can be applied to an adult Bernese Mountain Dog. It is important to establish a consistent routine, use positive reinforcement, and limit access to areas where accidents may occur.
How long does it take to potty train a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy?
The length of time it takes to potty train a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy varies based on factors like consistency in training, age, and individual temperament. With proper training and consistency, most puppies can be fully potty trained within a few months.
How often should I take my Bernese Mountain Dog outside for potty breaks?
Potty breaks should be taken frequently, especially in the beginning stages of training. It is recommended to take your Bernese Mountain Dog outside every 1-2 hours during the day and before bedtime.
How should I potty train my Bernese Mountain Dog in an apartment if I don’t have a yard?
Consistency and establishing a routine are crucial for potty training a Bernese Mountain Dog in an apartment. Utilizing puppy pads or a designated potty area on a balcony or patio can be helpful. It is important to supervise your dog closely and reward them for going in the designated area.
What’s the best online training course to potty train a Bernese Mountain Dog?
Our 2 favorite online courses are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Mastering Potty Training” Course
This affordable course uses science-based and “fear-free” tactics to potty train your Bernese Mountain Dog quickly. You’re allowed to ask the trainer unlimited questions and it comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just a potty training course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
In conclusion, potty training a Bernese Mountain Dog requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. It is important to start the training process early and establish a routine for taking your dog outside for potty breaks. Consistently rewarding your dog for appropriate behavior and minimizing punishment for accidents is key to success. Additionally, it is important to consider the specific needs of your Bernese Mountain Dog, such as their activity level and physical limitations, when developing a potty training plan. With dedication and the use of effective training techniques, you can successfully potty train your Bernese Mountain Dog and establish a happy, healthy relationship with your furry companion.
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