Potty Training with Instinct: Crate Training Your Doodle

Though Goldendoodles are a domesticated pet, they still share instinctive behaviors with their distant cousins in the wild. 

Bringing a new puppy into your home is exciting yet comes with many challenges as you both get to know each other and adapt to your new life together. One of the first hurdles to tackle will be potty training. Crate training is a common method used by dog owners that works off your dog’s natural den instinct. They naturally will not want to soil the area they rest in. This trait allows you a chance to control their potential and sudden accidents. 

Preparation

You’ll need to invest in a crate for your puppy. It may be wise to buy a crate large enough for your puppy once they are fully grown that comes with a divider. A properly sized crate allows the puppy to stand, turn around, and lay down comfortably. Providing them more space than this will enable your puppy to establish a bathroom corner in their crate they think they can get away with. The divider will help you be able to adjust the usable space for your puppy as they grow. You’ll want to have some high value treats for when they go to the bathroom successfully outside. High value treats could be items such as liver meatballs, boiled and shredded chicken or turkey, or even pieces of beef or salmon. Do not line their crate with puppy pads or newspaper as this may cause confusion for your puppy, especially if they were custom to wetting on those materials prior to coming home with you. 

Introduction

Keep in mind that your new puppy is unable to hold their need to go to the bathroom for long periods of time. You will need to commit to taking them outside every 30 minutes for an opportunity to go to the bathroom. When you take your puppy out of their crate, immediately take them outside to the designated bathroom area. Use a chosen command such as “potty”, “bathroom”, “do your business”, etc. Repeat the word or phrase until your puppy goes to the bathroom. Do not engage in play with your puppy at this time. Once they go to the bathroom outside, give them lots of praise and a high value treat. You’ll want to be conscious about putting your puppy in their crate after eating or after drinking water after they had a time of play. Repeat this process and slowly lengthen the time between bathroom breaks as your puppy continues success. Do not punish your puppy with swats for accidents. Goldendoodles are natural pleasers and physical reprimand is not appropriate training. 

Success

As your puppy ages, they will develop a way of communicating with you their need to go outside- walking to the door, pawing your leg, or even a whimper. This communication may take a while to develop between you and your puppy, but watch for their signs of communicating with you. Before long, your puppy will know the proper place to use the bathroom and will develop physically to be able to hold their need to go to the bathroom for longer periods of time allowing them and you more time to spend in the home playing and relaxing together.

This piece is a second installment in a series on potty training Goldendoodles. Be sure to also check out the tips on training with a bell.

More Resources

10 Fun Activities to Do with Your Goldendoodle

10 Fun Activities to Do with Your Goldendoodle

Goldendoodles are playful, energetic, and love spending time with their owners. If you're looking for fun activities to do with your Goldendoodle, we've got you covered. Here are 10 fun things you can do with your Goldendoodle: 1. Go for a Walk Goldendoodles love...

How to Choose the Right Goldendoodle Breeder for You

How to Choose the Right Goldendoodle Breeder for You

Choosing the right Goldendoodle breeder is an important decision that will impact your life for years to come. With so many breeders to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best fit for you and your family. Here are some tips to help you...

The History and Evolution of Goldendoodles: A Brief Overview

The History and Evolution of Goldendoodles: A Brief Overview

Goldendoodles have become increasingly popular in recent years, but where did they come from? In this post, we'll take a brief look at the history and evolution of Goldendoodles. Origins Goldendoodles are a relatively new breed, with their origins dating back to the...

10 Reasons Why Goldendoodles Make the Perfect Family Pet

10 Reasons Why Goldendoodles Make the Perfect Family Pet

Goldendoodles have become one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, and for good reason. These lovable pups are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, and they make wonderful pets for families of all kinds. Here are 10 reasons why Goldendoodles make...

Insects That Can Affect Your Family Pets

Insects That Can Affect Your Family Pets

Your pets are a treasured part of your family and you want to make sure you care for them in every way possible. One thing to be aware of is the types of pests that your pet can be vulnerable to. Knowing common types of pests and bugs and how to deal with them can...

Why Regular Dog Grooming is Essential

Why Regular Dog Grooming is Essential

As you may be aware, owning a dog comes with a lot of responsibilities. You need to keep them fed, deal with their waste, give them adequate exercise, and of course plenty of love. In addition to this, you also need to keep up with their grooming. Get Rid of Shedding...

Work That Goes Into Taking Care of a Dog

Work That Goes Into Taking Care of a Dog

Are you in the market for a puppy to add to your family? Whether you’ve always wanted to own a dog or whether you’ve finally been convinced by your kids to get one, having a dog can be very rewarding. Dogs are friendly, loving pets that will bring a lot of happiness...

How to make your dog bath enjoyable & comfortable

How to make your dog bath enjoyable & comfortable

Your dog needs a bath, but where do you start? From selecting the right products to knowing how to help your dog feel comfortable with getting wet, the process can seem difficult at first. This article will go into three key things you can do so that you can have a...