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Potty training a Newfoundland, like any other dog breed, can be challenging for pet owners. It requires patience, consistency, and a bit of knowledge about the breed’s unique characteristics. However, with the right approach and techniques, you can successfully potty train your Newfoundland in a short amount of time. In this article, we will share seven secrets to quickly potty train your Newfoundland, from knowing when your dog needs to go outside to create a successful potty training schedule that works for you and your furry friend. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be on your way to a fully potty-trained Newfoundland in no time.
Note: While the tips below should be very helpful for potty training your Newfoundland, 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 Newfoundland Early and Be Consistent
The sooner you begin potty training your Newfoundland, 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 Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. When your Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland’s Behavior
Pay attention to your Newfoundland’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 Newfoundland quickly? Try this affordable online course
4. Confine Your Newfoundland to a Small Area
When you’re not able to supervise your Newfoundland, 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 Newfoundland’s Freedom
As your Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland know they are ready to be taken outside to the bathroom. Teach your Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland
How do I know when my Newfoundland needs to go potty?
Some signs that your Newfoundland needs to go potty include sniffing around the house, whining, pacing, circling, or heading toward the door. Paying attention to your dog’s behavior and schedule can also help you anticipate when they need to go outside.
At what age should I begin potty training a Newfoundland puppy?
You can start potty training your Newfoundland puppy as early as 8 weeks old. It’s important to establish a routine and be consistent with training to make the process easier and more successful.
How can I potty train an adult Newfoundland?
Potty training an adult Newfoundland may take a little longer than training a puppy, but the same principles apply. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and establishing a routine are key. You may also want to consider crate training or restricting access to certain areas of the house until they are fully trained.
How long does it take to potty train a Newfoundland puppy?
The time it takes to potty train a Newfoundland puppy can vary depending on the individual dog and the consistency of training. Some puppies may learn quickly within a few weeks, while others may take several months.
How often should I take my Newfoundland outside for potty breaks?
It’s recommended to take your Newfoundland outside for potty breaks every 2-3 hours, especially during the early stages of potty training. As your dog becomes more reliable and can hold their bladder for longer periods, you can gradually increase the time between breaks.
How should I potty train my Newfoundland in an apartment if I don’t have a yard?
Potty training a Newfoundland in an apartment without a yard requires consistency and patience. You can use puppy pads, a designated spot on a balcony, or take them for frequent walks to an appropriate potty area outside. It’s important to establish a routine and reward them for going to the right spot. Crate training can also be helpful in controlling accidents and teaching them to hold their bladder.
What’s the best online training course to potty train a Newfoundland?
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 Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland may seem like a daunting task, but with patience and consistency, it is definitely achievable. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can quickly and effectively potty train your Newfoundland, whether it’s a puppy or an adult. Remember to always keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior, establish a routine, use positive reinforcement, and be consistent with your training. With time, patience, and plenty of praise, your Newfoundland will be fully potty trained and ready to enjoy a happy and healthy life with you.
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