One might find it hard to believe, but it is possible to train old dogs and puppies to use the bathroom when you tell them to. Lots of puppies are able to associate commands that you tell them with certain behaviors.

An example is when you dog goes to the bathroom outside, tell him/her to “go potty.” With enough repetition your dog will associate going to the bathroom with the you saying “go potty.” This is called a pavlovian response, named after Ivan Pavlov who trained dogs to expect food when they hear the sound of a ringing bell. Following these steps will allow you to train your dog to relieve it’s self at your command.

Associating behaviors with commands is a great way to train a dog. When you dog has an accident inside, take them outdoors and say “no, go outside.”

Sooner or later your dog will realize that they are doing something wrong when you say those words. You don’t need to spank your dog, commands are more effective.

Eventually your puppy will learn to go to the bathroom outside. First you must take your dog outside and wait for it to go to the bathroom as you are saying “go potty.” You must keep the dog outside until s/he goes to the bathroom. This process will go on until the dog finally goes potty. When this happens you should praise your dog, use a happy voice and pet him.

This teaches your puppy that it makes you happy when she goes to the bathroom outside. It is best to find a specific place in your yard to make the dog go to the bathroom.

This helps with the behavior association. By praising your dog when it goes to the bathroom outside you use positive reinforcement to get the desired behavior. Make sure you are clear when giving commands.

You don’t want your dog to think you say “no” if you are saying “go.” It might be a good idea to choose a different phrase like “do your business” or “potty outside.”

It is possible to associate any word with any behavior. But, it is important to use the same word each time.

You don’t want to confuse your dog by using a different phrase each time. This will get you nowhere. The use of doggie treats can help increase the positive reinforcement.

Along with your pets and positive voice, treats can go a long way. Dogs want to make their owners happy.

If you have some patience, you will both get what you want. You can train your dog through commands inside or out. Many people want their dog to go outside. But it is possible to train your dog to pee on a special pad inside.

Whatever you choose, you must be consistent and don’t change the system.

After the dog is potty trained, you can usually stop using the commands.