When the temperatures drop, puppy potty training success can also take a downward slide. Persuading a puppy to face the cold rather than potty in the convenience and warmth of the indoors often requires extra effort and planning.
Some puppies are relatively unaffected by the winter elements; for these dogs, learning to potty outside, even in the worst weather, can be fairly simple. But for sensitive pups, colder weather can turn potty training into a much bigger chore. My Pug, Willy, was one such puppy; he absolutely hated the cold — and still does! When I first brought him home, the only thing that puppy wanted to do in winter weather was curl up in a ball on top of my boots — forget about asking him to step one single paw into the snow, much less relax enough to do his duty. Fortunately, Willy is now very reliable about relieving himself outside, even in the coldest weather, but winter weather made potty training him especially challenging.
If you and your puppy live in an area where extensive rainfall, snow, hail, slush, ice, high winds or cold temperatures have you convinced your puppy will never potty outside, don't worry! He'll learn — but it will take a little extra effort on your part. Here are six winter weather potty pointers to help get you and your puppy on track for potty success, even in the worst weather conditions.
More on Vetstreet:
- 5 Common Myths About Dogs in Winter
- Reader Survey: 5 Smartest Dog Breeds
- Winter Hazards You Should Avoid With Your Dog
- Indoor Activities to Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy