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Potty training a Border Collie can be a daunting task for many new pet owners, but with the right approach and techniques, it can be done quickly and effectively. Whether you have a Border Collie puppy or an adult dog, proper potty training is essential to avoid accidents and maintain a clean home environment. In this article, we’ll share seven secrets to help you quickly potty train your Border Collie. By following these tips and implementing them consistently, you can achieve success in a shorter amount of time and enjoy a well-behaved, house-trained Border Collie.
Note: While the tips below should be very helpful for potty training your Border Collie, 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 Border Collie Early and Be Consistent
The sooner you begin potty training your Border Collie, 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 Border Collie 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 Border Collie Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. When your Border Collie 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 Border Collie’s Behavior
Pay attention to your Border Collie’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 Border Collie quickly? Try this affordable online course
4. Confine Your Border Collie to a Small Area
When you’re not able to supervise your Border Collie, 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 Border Collie’s Freedom
As your Border Collie 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 Border Collie know they are ready to be taken outside to the bathroom. Teach your Border Collie to ring the bell with their paw or nose before exiting the door that leads to their potty area. There are many types of potty bells available on Amazon, such as this:
7. Be Patient with Your Border Collie 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 their progress. Remember that accidents will happen, but don’t punish your Border Collie 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 Border Collie 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 Border Collie 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 Border Collie
How do I know when my Border Collie needs to go potty?
You can observe your Border Collie’s behavior to determine when they need to go potty. Signs to look out for include restlessness, circling or sniffing around, scratching at the door, or whining.
At what age should I begin potty training a Border Collie puppy?
Potty training for Border Collie puppies should begin as early as 8-12 weeks old. It’s important to establish a routine and consistency to help the puppy learn the proper behavior.
How can I potty train an adult Border Collie?
Potty training an adult Border Collie requires patience and consistency. Similar to a puppy, establish a routine and consistently reinforce positive behavior.
How long does it take to potty train a Border Collie puppy?
The length of time it takes to potty train a Border Collie puppy can vary, but it usually takes about 4-6 months. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to achieving success.
How often should I take my Border Collie outside for potty breaks?
Border Collies require frequent potty breaks, especially when they are puppies. Aim to take your Border Collie outside every 1-2 hours, or immediately after they eat or drink water.
How should I potty train my Border Collie in an apartment if I don’t have a yard?
Potty training a Border Collie in an apartment without a yard requires a consistent routine and close supervision. Establish an indoor potty area or use pee pads, and reward positive behavior. Remember to take your Border Collie outside frequently for fresh air and exercise.
What’s the best online training course to potty train a Border Collie?
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 Border Collie 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 Border Collie can be a challenging process, but it is possible with patience and consistency. By using the 7 secrets to quickly potty train your Border Collie, you can help your furry friend learn where and when to go potty in a timely manner. Remember to always praise and reward your dog for successful potty breaks, and to be consistent with your training techniques. With dedication and effort, your Border Collie can become fully potty trained in no time, making for a happy and healthy relationship between you and your furry companion.
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