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Most of
our dogs detest going out in wet weather, which means
we’re either dragging them outside or cleaning up pee
and poop in the house.
Don’t
worry. We wouldn’t leave you high and dry when it’s
raining cats and dogs. Here are some tips for getting
your dog to do his business outside.
NO TIME
LIKE THE PRESENT
You
should have started training before the storm hit, but
never mind. Wait for a lull when it’s just sprinkling
to get your dog more accustomed to going out in the
rain.
— Make
it a fun time, playing with your dog in the light rain.
— Take
dogs for short walks, praising them every time they hike
their leg or squat. Offer treats to reward success.
—
Misery loves company, so instead of just opening the
door and expecting your dog to willingly go out and get
soaked, grab the leash and go with your dog, even if
it’s just in the backyard. Your dog will see that
you’re out in the weather, too, so there’s nothing
so bad about it (despite the fact that you’re wearing
a rain slicker and boots and carrying an umbrella).
— Teach
your dog the “hurry” command. You can start this
anytime, not just when it’s raining. Repeat
“hurry” often and when the dog does its business,
heap praises and treats. The dog will soon realize what
hurry means, and that can be useful when trying to get
the dog in and out of the rain as quickly as possible.
MAKE
CONCESSIONS
— Some
dogs are just never going to like going out in the rain.
They may stubbornly refuse to do anything but stand
there, looking like the most pathetic thing ever. For
these dogs — or even for dogs that tolerate the rain
better — create an area that is more protected from
the elements. That could mean allowing your dog to use a
covered patio, or providing some sort of cover near the
house and over a dirt, grass or bark surface.
— Buy
your dog a raincoat. If your dog tolerates wearing
clothes, consider a raincoat that will give him better
protection against the rain. Make sure it fits properly
and that you can still secure your dog with its harness
and leash.
— Still
won’t go out? Invest in puppy piddle pads or a
synthetic grass pad for use in the house, garage or
covered area outside.
WALK IN
THE RAIN
—
It’s best to keep walks to a minimum during the rain.
It’s cold, wet and windy out there, and no one — not
even ducks — really likes being out in the elements.
Keep in mind that you’re probably bundled up and still
miserable. Think about how uncomfortable your dog is.
— If
you are venturing outside the backyard, be sure your dog
is on a leash. Thunderstorms, the occasional flash of
lightning and sudden rumble from the sky, can startle or
frighten your dog, causing it to run.
— The
leash also will help you keep your dog moving and
focused on the business at hand, or paw.
— Using
a leash in backyard visits is a good idea, too, just to
remind the dog why you’re out there.
— If
you can, avoid going out in the heart of the storm, but
if you do, watch for falling limbs and other dangers.
WHEN THE
WALK IS FINISHED
— Be
sure to reward your dog with praise and a treat after a
successful potty break.
— Have
a towel at the ready to dry your dog off. You don’t
want the dog to be uncomfortable and cold from having a
wet coat, not to mention the wet furniture and laps that
can ensue.
— Make
a schedule for when to walk the dog, and stick to it.
For example, take the dog out after each meal and before
bedtime. If you decide to skip a trip, your dog likely
will pee or poop in the house, which then puts a wrinkle
in the rain walking training.
— Take
heart. The rain won’t last forever.
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