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Pomeranians are one of the most beloved small dog breeds, known for their adorable fluffy appearance and playful personalities. However, potty training them can be a challenge for many owners. Whether you are dealing with a Pomeranian puppy or an adult dog, it is essential to establish a consistent potty training routine to avoid accidents in the house. In this article, we will explore 7 secrets to quickly potty training your Pomeranian, so you can enjoy a clean and comfortable living space while also fostering a healthy and happy relationship with your furry friend.
Note: While the tips below should be very helpful for potty training your Pomeranian, 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 Pomeranian Early and Be Consistent
The sooner you begin potty training your Pomeranian, 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 Pomeranian 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 Pomeranian Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. When your Pomeranian 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 Pomeranian’s Behavior
Pay attention to your Pomeranian’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 Pomeranian quickly? Try this affordable online course
4. Confine Your Pomeranian to a Small Area
When you’re not able to supervise your Pomeranian, 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 Pomeranian’s Freedom
As your Pomeranian 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 Pomeranian know they are ready to be taken outside to the bathroom. Teach your Pomeranian 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 Pomeranian 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 Pomeranian 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 Pomeranian 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 Pomeranian 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 Pomeranian
How do I know when my Pomeranian needs to go potty?
Signs that your Pomeranian needs to go potty include sniffing around, circling, whining, or scratching at the door. Puppies may also start to get restless or start to have accidents if they need to go.
At what age should I begin potty training a Pomeranian puppy?
Potty training should begin as soon as you bring your Pomeranian puppy home, which is usually around 8-12 weeks old. This is when the puppy starts to develop control over their bladder and bowel movements.
How can I potty train an adult Pomeranian?
Potty training an adult Pomeranian follows the same principles as training a puppy. Establish a routine, supervise the dog, and reward good behavior. It may take longer for an adult dog to unlearn bad habits and develop new ones, but with consistency and patience, it can be done.
How long does it take to potty train a Pomeranian puppy?
The time it takes to potty train a Pomeranian puppy can vary based on factors such as consistency, routine, and the puppy’s personality. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to fully potty train a Pomeranian puppy.
How often should I take my Pomeranian outside for potty breaks?
Pomeranians have small bladders and need to go outside frequently, especially as puppies. A general rule is to take your Pomeranian out every 2-3 hours or after meals, naps, or playtime.
How should I potty train my Pomeranian in an apartment if I don’t have a yard?
Potty training a Pomeranian in an apartment requires creating a consistent routine and setting up a designated potty area indoors, such as a pee pad or litter box. Regular trips outside for exercise and playtime can also help prevent accidents. Rewarding good behavior and avoiding punishment for accidents can help reinforce positive habits.
What’s the best online training course to potty train a Pomeranian?
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 Pomeranian 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 Pomeranian can be challenging, but it is not impossible. By following the seven secrets outlined in this article, you can quickly and effectively train your Pomeranian to do their business outside or in a designated spot indoors. Remember to be patient, consistent, and positive in your training approach. Each dog is unique, and some may take longer to learn than others, but with proper training and reinforcement, your Pomeranian can become a well-trained and obedient companion. So don’t give up, keep practicing, and soon you’ll be able to enjoy a happy, healthy relationship with your furry friend.
Toledo, United States.
