How To Potty Train A Pomeranian: A Clear Guide To Success

Potty training a new Pomeranian puppy can be challenging.

In this article, I will provide tips, tricks, and traps that we can fall into when potty training our puppies.

Getting Ready for Potty Training

Before starting the potty training process, it is important to prepare for it. This includes getting all the necessary supplies and setting up a routine for the Pomeranian puppy.

Here are some tips to get ready for potty training:

Supplies

The essential supplies for potty training a Pomeranian puppy include a crate or playpen, a leash and collar, puppy pads or newspaper, cleaning supplies, and enzymatic cleaner.

A crate or playpen provides a safe and comfortable place for the puppy to rest and sleep. It is also useful for confining the puppy during the housebreaking process.

A leash and collar are essential for taking the puppy out for potty breaks. Puppy pads or newspaper provide a convenient potty solution for indoor training.

Cleaning supplies and enzymatic cleaner are necessary for keeping the home clean during potty training.

Routine

Establishing a routine is crucial for the housebreaking process.

This includes feeding the puppy at regular times and taking them out for potty breaks after meals, playtime, and naps.

Using a potty bell can also help to train the puppy to signal when they need to go outside. Consistency is key to success in house training a Pomeranian puppy.

House Training Methods

There are different methods to house train a Pomeranian puppy, including crate training, paper training, and outdoor training.

Crate training involves confining the puppy in a crate or playpen when they are not supervised, and taking them out for potty breaks at regular intervals.

Paper training involves using puppy pads or newspaper to teach the puppy to go potty in a designated area indoors. Outdoor training involves taking the puppy outside to a designated potty spot and rewarding them for going potty in the right place.

Setting Up the Potty Area

Setting up a designated potty area is an essential step in potty training a Pomeranian. It is important to choose a specific spot, whether it is outside or inside, and consistently use the same spot for potty breaks.

If the owner chooses to have the potty area outside, it is recommended to choose an area that is easily accessible and away from high traffic areas. It is also important to ensure the area is safe and free from harmful objects or plants. If the owner chooses to have the potty area inside, a training pad, litter box, or newspaper can be used as a designated potty spot.

Pee pads are a popular choice for indoor potty training, and they come in different sizes and absorbency levels. It is important to change the pee pad frequently to maintain cleanliness and prevent odor. For owners who prefer a more eco-friendly option, washable training pads are also available.

In addition to pee pads, litter boxes can also be used as a designated potty spot for Pomeranians.

It is important to choose a litter box that is appropriate in size and easy for the Pomeranian to access. Litter boxes come in different shapes and sizes, and some even come with a cover to prevent litter scatter.

Establishing a Potty Routine

Establishing a consistent potty routine is crucial to successfully potty training a Pomeranian. Pomeranians are intelligent dogs and can quickly learn and adapt to routines. A consistent routine will help your Pomeranian understand when it’s time to go potty and where they should do it.

It’s essential to take your Pomeranian out to potty after meals, naps, and before bedtime. This routine will help your Pomeranian develop good habits and avoid accidents. Pomeranians have small bladders, and they may need to go out more frequently than other breeds.

It’s also important to take your Pomeranian out to potty first thing in the morning and before bedtime. This routine will help your Pomeranian have a good night’s sleep without any accidents.

Consistency is key when establishing a potty routine. Use the same cues and take your Pomeranian out to the same spot every time. This routine will help your Pomeranian understand what’s expected of them and where they should go potty.

It’s also essential to praise your Pomeranian when they go potty in the right spot. Positive reinforcement will help your Pomeranian understand that they’ve done something good.

By establishing a consistent potty routine, your Pomeranian will quickly learn where and when they should go potty. With patience and consistency, you’ll have a fully potty trained Pomeranian in no time.

Using Commands and Cues

When it comes to potty training a Pomeranian, using commands and cues can be helpful in teaching them where and when to go to the bathroom. A command word or cue word can be used to signal to the Pomeranian that it’s time to go potty.

A command word is a verbal cue that is used consistently every time the Pomeranian is taken outside to go to the bathroom. It can be any word or phrase that the owner chooses, such as “go potty” or “do your business”. The key is to use the same command word every time and to use it consistently until the Pomeranian learns to associate the word with going potty.

In addition to verbal commands, owners can also use signs or cues to signal to their Pomeranian that it’s time to go potty. For example, the owner can take the Pomeranian to the same spot in the yard every time they go outside to go to the bathroom. This will help the Pomeranian associate the spot with going potty and make it easier for them to understand what is expected of them.

Another way to use cues is to pay attention to the Pomeranian’s behavior. Dogs often exhibit certain behaviors when they need to go to the bathroom, such as sniffing around or circling a spot. By paying attention to these cues, owners can anticipate when their Pomeranian needs to go outside and take them to the designated potty spot [3].

Overall, using commands and cues can be a helpful tool in potty training a Pomeranian. By using consistent verbal cues and paying attention to the Pomeranian’s behavior, owners can help their furry friend learn the appropriate place and time to go potty.

Positive Reinforcement in Potty Training

Positive reinforcement is an effective method to potty train a Pomeranian. The idea behind positive reinforcement is to reward good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. This method helps to build a happy and confident dog that is more willing to learn.

When a Pomeranian successfully goes potty outside, the owner should offer praise, treats, or playtime as a reward. This positive experience reinforces the idea that going potty outside is a good thing. Over time, the dog will associate going potty outside with happy experiences and will be more likely to repeat the behavior.

It is important to note that the reward should be given immediately after the dog goes potty outside. This way, the dog can associate the reward with the behavior. Delaying the reward can confuse the dog and cause it to lose confidence in the training process.

Treats are a great way to reward a Pomeranian during potty training. However, it is important to choose treats that are healthy and appropriate for the dog’s size. Treats should also be given in moderation to avoid overfeeding the dog.

Dealing with Accidents

Even with the best intentions, accidents can happen during the potty training process. It’s important to remain calm and not punish the puppy for mistakes, as this can lead to anxiety and fear. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and redirecting the puppy towards the correct behavior.

If the puppy is caught in the act of having an accident, it’s important to interrupt them gently and move them to the designated potty area immediately. This will help them associate the correct behavior with the designated area and reinforce the desired habit.

When cleaning up accidents, it’s important to use a paper towel to absorb as much of the mess as possible before using an enzymatic cleaner to remove any odors. This will help prevent the puppy from returning to the same spot to have another accident.

It’s important to note that punishment is not an effective method of potty training and can actually hinder progress. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and redirecting the puppy towards the correct behavior.

Potty Training Challenges and Solutions

Potty training a Pomeranian can be challenging, especially for first-time dog owners. However, with patience and consistency, it can be accomplished successfully.

One of the most common challenges is the Pomeranian’s small bladder. Pomeranians have small bladders and need to go frequently, especially when they are young. The solution to this is to take them out to potty often, at least every two hours, and after they eat or drink water.

Another challenge is keeping them from getting distracted. Pomeranians can be easily distracted by their surroundings, which can lead to accidents inside the house. The solution to this is to take them to a designated potty area and keep them on a leash. This will help them focus on the task at hand and not get distracted.

Water and food intake can also affect potty training. Pomeranians should not have access to water or food before bedtime to prevent accidents during the night. The solution is to feed them at regular intervals and take them out to potty after meals.

Teaching a Pomeranian to signal when they need to go out can also be a challenge. One solution is to teach them to circle or scratch at the door when they need to go out. This can be accomplished by rewarding them when they do it correctly.

Lastly, Pomeranians can get tired of going to the same potty spot repeatedly. A solution to this is to change the location of the potty spot occasionally. This will keep them interested and motivated to go to the designated area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Take My Puppy Outside For Potty Breaks?

It is recommended to take your Pomeranian puppy outside for potty breaks every 2-3 hours, as well as after meals, naps, and playtime. Puppies have smaller bladders and need to go more frequently than adult dogs. As your puppy gets older, they will be able to hold their bladder for longer periods of time.

Can You Litterbox Train A Pomeranian?

Yes, Pomeranians can be litterbox trained. However, it is important to note that litterbox training should only be used as a backup option for when your puppy cannot go outside. It is still recommended to take your Pomeranian outside for potty breaks as much as possible.

How Long Does It Typically Take To Potty Train A Pomeranian Puppy?

It typically takes 4-6 months to fully potty train a Pomeranian puppy. However, every puppy is different and may take more or less time. Consistency and patience are key when potty training your puppy.

What Are Some Common Mistakes To Avoid When Potty Training A Pomeranian?

Some common mistakes to avoid when potty training a Pomeranian include punishing your puppy for accidents, not being consistent with the potty training routine, and not taking your puppy outside frequently enough. It is important to remember that accidents will happen and to remain patient and positive throughout the process.

How Can I Teach My Pomeranian To Signal When They Need To Go Outside?

One effective method for teaching your Pomeranian to signal when they need to go outside is to use a bell. Hang a bell by the door and ring it every time you take your puppy outside. Eventually, your puppy will learn to ring the bell themselves when they need to go outside.

What Are Some Effective Methods For Crate Training A Pomeranian During Potty Training?

Crate training can be an effective tool for potty training your Pomeranian. Start by introducing your puppy to the crate slowly and positively. Use the crate as a safe and comfortable space for your puppy to rest, and take them outside for potty breaks immediately after letting them out of the crate. It is important to never use the crate as a punishment.

Can Pomeranians Be Trained To Use A Designated Potty Area Inside The Home?

Yes, Pomeranians can be trained to use a designated potty area inside the home, such as a pee pad or litterbox. However, it is still recommended to take your puppy outside for potty breaks as much as possible.

What Are Some Tips For Potty Training A Pomeranian?

Some tips for potty training a Pomeranian include being consistent with the potty training routine, using positive reinforcement, taking your puppy outside frequently, and remaining patient throughout the process. It is also important to clean up accidents thoroughly to remove any lingering scent.