7 Secrets to Quickly Potty Training a Westie

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Note: While the tips below should be very helpful for potty training your Westie, 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 Westie Early and Be Consistent

The sooner you begin potty training your Westie, 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 Westie 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 Westie Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. When your Westie 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 Westie’s Behavior

Pay attention to your Westie’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 Westie quickly? Try this affordable online course

4. Confine Your Westie to a Small Area

When you’re not able to supervise your Westie, 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 Westie’s Freedom

As your Westie 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 Westie know they are ready to be taken outside to the bathroom. Teach your Westie 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 Westie 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 Westie 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 Westie  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 Westie 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 Westie

How do I know when my Westie needs to go potty?

Westies typically display certain behaviors when they need to go potty, such as sniffing around, circling, and pacing. Some may also whine or scratch at the door. It’s important to pay attention to your Westie’s body language and establish a routine for taking them out to potty.

At what age should I begin potty training a Westie puppy?

It’s best to begin potty training your Westie as soon as possible, ideally when they are around 8-10 weeks old. This is when they are most receptive to learning and can start developing good habits.

How can I potty train an adult Westie?

Potty training an adult Westie requires patience and consistency. You’ll need to establish a routine and be vigilant about taking them outside regularly. Consider crate training to help with potty training and prevent accidents indoors.

How long does it take to potty train a Westie puppy?

The length of time it takes to potty train a Westie puppy can vary, but typically it takes several weeks to a few months to establish good habits. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful potty training.

How often should I take my Westie outside for potty breaks?

Westie puppies may need to go potty as often as every 30 minutes to an hour, while adult Westies may be able to hold it for several hours. As a general rule, take your Westie outside to potty every 2-4 hours, and more frequently if they are showing signs of needing to go.

How should I potty train my Westie in an apartment if I don’t have a yard?

Potty training a Westie in an apartment without a yard can be challenging, but it’s still possible. Consider using pee pads or a litter box, and establish a routine for taking your Westie outside for potty breaks. You can also consider crate training to help with potty training and prevent accidents indoors. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful potty training in an apartment setting.

What’s the best online training course to potty train a Westie?

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 Westie 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.

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