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7 Secrets to Quickly Potty Training a Great Dane
27
Apr
Apr
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Potty training a Great Dane can be a challenging task, especially for new dog owners. Great Danes are large breeds that require special attention and care when it comes to potty training. The process may take some time and patience, but with the right techniques, it can be done successfully. In this article, we will discuss 7 secrets to quickly potty train your Great Dane. These tips will help you understand the needs of your Great Dane and create a suitable potty training routine. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, your Great Dane will soon be a pro at going potty in the right place.
Note: While the tips below should be very helpful for potty training your Great Dane, 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 Great Dane Early and Be Consistent
The sooner you begin potty training your Great Dane, 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 Great Dane 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 Great Dane Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. When your Great Dane 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 Great Dane’s Behavior
Pay attention to your Great Dane’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 Great Dane quickly? Try this affordable online course
4. Confine Your Great Dane to a Small Area
When you’re not able to supervise your Great Dane, 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 Great Dane’s Freedom
As your Great Dane 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 Great Dane know they are ready to be taken outside to the bathroom. Teach your Great Dane 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 Great Dane 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 Great Dane 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 Great Dane 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 Great Dane 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 Great Dane
How do I know when my Great Dane needs to go potty?
Great Danes often show signs of needing to go potty, such as restlessness, sniffing around, circling, or standing at the door. They may also whine or bark to get your attention. It is important to observe your Great Dane’s behavior and establish a routine to help anticipate their needs.
At what age should I begin potty training a Great Dane puppy?
It is best to begin potty training a Great Dane puppy as early as possible, ideally between 8-12 weeks of age. This is when they start developing their bladder control and are more receptive to learning new behaviors.
How can I potty train an adult Great Dane?
Potty training an adult Great Dane may take longer than a puppy, but the process is similar. Establish a consistent routine, use positive reinforcement, and be patient with your Great Dane as they learn new habits.
How long does it take to potty train a Great Dane puppy?
Potty training a Great Dane puppy can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the consistency and dedication of the owner. It is important to establish a routine, use positive reinforcement, and be patient as your Great Dane learns new habits.
How often should I take my Great Dane outside for potty breaks?
Great Danes have large bladders and may not need to go outside as often as smaller dogs. However, it is recommended to take them outside at least every 4-6 hours, or after meals, playtime, or naps.
How should I potty train my Great Dane in an apartment if I don’t have a yard?
Potty training a Great Dane in an apartment may require more effort, but it is possible. Consider using a designated potty area, such as a puppy pad or artificial turf, and establish a consistent routine for taking your Great Dane outside. Use positive reinforcement and be patient as they learn new habits.
What’s the best online training course to potty train a Great Dane?
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 Great Dane 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 Great Dane may seem daunting due to their size, but with consistency and patience, it can be achieved quickly. By following the 7 secrets outlined in this article, Great Dane owners can train their puppies or adult dogs to become well-behaved and obedient when it comes to potty time. Remember to keep a routine, reward good behavior, and always supervise your Great Dane when they are outside. With these tips, potty training a Great Dane can be a positive experience for both you and your furry friend, leading to a healthier and happier living environment for everyone.
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