Hanging On Grimly

by Lila Iyer
(Bangalore)

My cocker spaniel is 14 weeks old now, and he is the darling of the residents on our street!

He's playful and learns fast - even corrected me - perfectly imitated my barked-out commands.

However, I've been a miserable failure at toilet training. He refuses to use the bathroom. The hall is fine, and he controls himself in the bath for hours if need be until I tire and come out, and there's the puddle.

A prayer? Or any suggestions?

Comment from Pauline (Web Owner)

Hello Lila,

It's not always easy, is it?

We all have some toilet training problems at first, but if we persist and remain consistent in our training, we will get there in the end.

Our article on potty training will help you to train your cocker spaniel to do his toilet exactly where you want him to.

If you don't have an outside space where you want your dog to do his toilet, for example, a garden or a yard, then substitute 'garden' for 'his toilet area' in our article.

Your main aim is to ensure you are around to teach him that he can only do his toilet in your chosen area - nowhere else.

It's also essential to be consistent and remain calm. Each time he begins to do a wee (or worse) in the wrong place, say 'No' firmly, pick him up quickly (preferably before he has a chance to finish) and move him to his toilet area. Stay calm and don't tell him off, other than to say 'No'. Tell him to 'do wee wee' and praise him when he does.

Don't forget to take him to his toilet area each time after he's eaten, played, had a shock or fright, and after he's woken up from a nap.

Further details on toilet training can be found here - follow the link - good luck and let us know how you get on.

Best wishes and good luck!