Litter Box Training a Puppy

I'm thinking of getting a miniature poodle. I would like to train the dog to do its business indoors. Has anyone tried the Wiz Dog for their small dog or do wee-wee pads or litter training seem to work better?

Thanks!
Enmenc from US

Answers:

Litter Box Training a Puppy

I have a T-cup Chihuahua that I litter box trained. I've never heard of the Wixz-Dog, but I assume it's much like a litter box. I started her out using puppy pads. I then bought a big plastic sweater storage box. I removed the lid and put it away for another use. I then took a box cutter and on one side of the box I cut out a U shaped piece about 6" wide, enough for her to be able to get in and out of the box. I also covered the cut edges with tape so she wouldn't scrape herself. Now that she is older (2yrs) I use sections of newspaper. Seems like I have anever ending supply of clean newspaper, what with relatives and neighbors all saving them for me. I make up thick sections and put down about 6 of them at a time. When she does her business, solid waste gets picked up and flushed, and then the paper goes in the garbage can. There is never any odor from her litter box. Also to give her some privacy I bought a piece of display board (cardboard that is used for school science projects) the kind that folds, like a folding screen. I cut out a door for her and placed the cardboard around her litter box. She is completely litterbox trained. When the weather permits I do take her for a daily walk so she gets some exercise. Hope this helps. (10/22/2005)

By Louise

Litter Box Training a Puppy

lovethosehounds,

What a clever idea you had. I think that sounds great. Someone else, on another site I posted this on, works with Min Pin rescue and they use a baking pan and newspaper too. But I don't think she puts as much down as you. I think your idea is even better. Thanks so much for your feedback!
(10/25/2005)

By Jessica

Litter Box Training a Puppy

I bought wizdog, price was right, but my dog would not use it. I could have trained her eventually, but I didnt like the thing. Sent it back they were nice about a refund. bought a Pup-head. My dog used it right away. I use it on our boat so it has been a great find! (12/20/2005)

By Carol Shetland

Litter Box Training a Puppy

I have been litter box training my puppy for a week plus now with nothing more than a dog litterbox and puppy pee pad in it and I put shredded papers from my work office (great recycling of it) :-) We shred alot of documents and I re use them for doggie litter - it works great! My pup will not use the pee pad alone - it must have shreds on top of it -. It helps make clean up of solid waste easy, and after my pup has urinated a few times - then I replace the pad with a new one .

It helps also to train the pup to understand words - when I put him in the box every time i say "go potty" - He is catching on quick . I know this because when I say the word potty, he gets alert and starts to look for the box. Consistency, patience, and persistance are key in any traing to be successful. (08/07/2006)

By Shannan

Litter Box Training a Puppy

My babies are small chihuahuas also, both about 3 lbs each. I live in the northern midwest and we have SNOW in the winter. They are way too small to go outdoors in the winter. The breeders always used the piddle pads and I did too, until they were too expensive.

At first I tried to change them over to newspaper laid in a large box I had cut down to about 2" high, but they were not happy with that. Then I realized they were use to soft "tissue"feeling on their paws, so I laid some cheap paper towels on top of the newspapers and they don't seem to mind.

I cut a vinyl picnic table cloth under the box and lined the box with it too. This keeps the floor and box in good condition and I can wash it in my washer when it gets kind of icky.
It has worked for my chi's. (08/07/2006)

By Gayle

Litter Box Training a Puppy

Snuggles has been paper box training for 2 days and is doing extremely well. she is an 8 week old pug puppy. we put her in the box and say the command. she tilts her head and ears and whines. she goes in the box on her own. when she goes we praise her with kisses and a cheer. it takes persistence. we are crate training, too. we use the two methods together. as, soon as she comes out of the crate, plays, 8 minutes after she eats and when sniffing around we set her in the box. we use newspaper, instead of litter. (01/22/2007)

By carol

Litter Box Training a Puppy

Thank you for posting the feedback. I will be picking up my morkie puppy next week and have been trying to find information on litterbox training. I found a litter box for puppies at the pet store, but now I know I can use the news paper or wee pads in lieu of doggie litter...

Thanks again for the information (03/10/2007)

By Morkieboy