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Potty training a Bullmastiff can be challenging, but with the right approach and consistent effort, it is definitely achievable. A Bullmastiff is a large breed and can be prone to accidents, especially as a puppy. To avoid messy situations and make the potty training process smoother, it’s essential to have a plan in place. In this article, we will be sharing 7 secrets to quickly potty train your Bullmastiff, so you can help your furry friend learn where and when to go potty and have a happy and healthy relationship together.
Note: While the tips below should be very helpful for potty training your Bullmastiff, 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 Bullmastiff Early and Be Consistent
The sooner you begin potty training your Bullmastiff, 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 Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. When your Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff’s Behavior
Pay attention to your Bullmastiff’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 Bullmastiff quickly? Try this affordable online course
4. Confine Your Bullmastiff to a Small Area
When you’re not able to supervise your Bullmastiff, 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 Bullmastiff’s Freedom
As your Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff know they are ready to be taken outside to the bathroom. Teach your Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff
How do I know when my Bullmastiff needs to go potty?
A Bullmastiff may give you some signs when they need to go potty, such as sniffing around or circling a spot. Additionally, they may become restless or start pacing. Paying attention to your Bullmastiff’s behavior and establishing a routine for potty breaks can help you identify when they need to go.
At what age should I begin potty training a Bullmastiff puppy?
The ideal age to start potty training your Bullmastiff puppy is around 8-12 weeks old. However, you can start the process as early as possible by taking them outside after meals and naps and rewarding them for going in the designated area.
How can I potty train an adult Bullmastiff?
Training an adult Bullmastiff to go potty outside follows the same principles as training a puppy. Establish a routine and take them outside frequently, rewarding them for going to the designated area. Patience and consistency are key when potty training an adult Bullmastiff.
How long does it take to potty train a Bullmastiff puppy?
The time it takes to potty train a Bullmastiff puppy can vary based on several factors, such as the consistency of the training and the individual puppy’s temperament. However, on average, it may take 3-6 months to fully potty train a Bullmastiff puppy.
How often should I take my Bullmastiff outside for potty breaks?
Bullmastiff puppies may need to go outside every 2-3 hours, while adult Bullmastiffs may only need to go outside 3-5 times a day. Paying attention to their behavior and establishing a routine can help you determine the frequency of potty breaks.
How should I potty train my Bullmastiff in an apartment if I don’t have a yard?
If you live in an apartment without a yard, designate a specific spot outside where you can take your Bullmastiff for potty breaks. You can also use pee pads inside the apartment to help them learn where it is acceptable to go potty. Consistency and positive reinforcement are crucial for potty training in this situation.
What’s the best online training course to potty train a Bullmastiff?
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 Bullmastiff 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 Bullmastiff can be challenging, but with patience, consistency, and the right techniques, it is possible to quickly and effectively train your dog to go potty in the appropriate place. Starting the training process at an early age, using positive reinforcement, creating a schedule, and providing plenty of outdoor opportunities are just a few of the key secrets to success. Whether you have a puppy or an adult Bullmastiff, these tips and strategies can be adapted to fit your specific situation and help you achieve your potty training goals. With these tools at your disposal, you can enjoy a clean and happy home with your well-trained Bullmastiff by your side.
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