Reviews of the all Best Dog Pottys

Spring break is one time of the year that many people, especially students, decide to head out on vacations in order to get away from their everyday lives. However, for new dog owners this can pose an inconvenient problem.

Dogs develop the majority of their habits during the early days together, and house-training isn’t something you can take a break from. This means that the majority of spring break travelers will likely have their dogs enjoy the journey with them. Which means the first thing you need to make sure of is that your destination is going to be a dog-friendly environment.

Prepare for the unexpected

First of all, consider how your dog is going to react? Will they be scared, intimidated, or maybe even a little too excited to listen to you? These are variables that can be difficult to estimate, especially if your dog is still young and you haven’t spent that much time with them. So, it’s ideal to prepare yourself for any and all personalities your dog may exhibit during the trip.

Will the training area be different than your home arrangement? In other words, are you going to have similar training areas to the environment of your home, such as a yard, outdoor locations or an indoor potty unit? Potty area familiarity can become an issue when moving a dog around at this stage, so it’s important to set your dog up with an area that they will be able to relate to when they return home.

Make things similar

This means you’re going to have to prepare for your dog’s experience to be as similar to their home environment as possible. For this purpose, crate training is ideal. It will provide your dog with a location that feels, smells, and is exactly like their home. The idea here is to provide a safe and secure place where your dog can go to calm their nerves. Additionally, it’s perfect for safe transportation during your trip.

You’ll also need to pack a travel bag for your dog. They’ll need supplies, for both training and survival, during the journey. The bag should contain food, treats for training, water with a portable container, enzyme based cleaners in case of an accident, and a medical kit for safety purposes. Don’t forget their leash, or harness if you have one.

Another tool to consider including is the use of an alternative potty method such as a dog litter box. This will provide your dog with a similar location that they can potty wherever they are and will greatly reduce confusion when you return home.

Just because you’re heading out of town for spring break doesn’t mean that you can take a break from house training your dog. Consider the needs of your friend and make this trip enjoyable for the both of you wherever you may be headed. And don’t forget to make sure it’s a dog friendly location.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

Every dog owner has to start somewhere, and every owner remembers their first dog. And the fact is that when they first got their dog, they were most likely clueless about housetraining their new companion. A new dog is hard work, and as a first time dog owner, there are certain tips and hints to keep in mind when you welcome your first dog into your home.

Be prepared

First of all, the most important thing is to prepare for what’s ahead. Owning and caring for your dog isn’t just about letting them learn as they go. You have to take control and guide them to live safely and comfortably within your home.

Scheduling

One thing to consider is that dogs are habitual. Right from the start, they begin developing habits, often associated with their surroundings. This can either work for you or against you. So, when it comes to preparing your dog for potty training, scheduling their feeding and watering times will play a big part in helping them adapt.

Also, take note that knowing when to treat them ensures effective training and keeps them healthy. As a first time owner, it’s important that you realize that treats aren’t exactly the healthiest thing for your dog, and neither are table scraps. Treats aren’t a daily allowance. They should be rewards for successfully accomplishing areas of their training, such as eliminating in the right locations.

Using tools the right way

Crating is one of the most renowned methods for helping your dog develop good indoor habits. However, it’s important that you maintain positive reinforcement when doing this. The crate should be treated as a place of safety and security, not as a punishment area. One of the dog’s natural instincts is to avoid eliminating within their secure space (crate), and thus will wait until you give them access to a designated potty location.

Potty time

It is important that you designate a potty area. As a first time owner, it’s important to realize your dog will need to use a safe place to go potty. This means away from neighbor’s fences (where there could be other barking dogs) and other distractions or dangers (a hot patio). It also helps to avoid indulging them in play, which young puppies will want to do, completely forgetting why they’re out there in the first place. Wait until they successfully eliminate before you begin any playtime (and don’t play in the potty area either).

It’s important to note that they should return to the very same location every time. Don’t change from front yard to back yard.

Cleaning up after accidents

Enzyme based cleaners are an essential tool to keep handy during the housetraining process. This should be your only cleaning chemical in case of accident, as others won’t actually eliminate the scent your dog leaves behind. Avoid bleach, ammonia, or other harsh chemicals. These can leave scents that will attract a dog’s nose and lead to future potty accidents.

Every owner has to start somewhere, and even if you’re clueless about housetraining your dog, there are others out there that will be more than willing to offer a few helpful hints and techniques. You just have to be willing to ask a few friends and see what there is to learn in the world of being a new pet-parent.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

Cold weather conditions will have you snuggled up warm inside your home. It might be a cold drizzle, a windy chill that freezes your fingers, or even snow that looks pretty but isn’t something you’d want to spend too much time in. For a dog, these weather conditions are felt the same way. In such conditions there are several things to consider before you ask your dog to head out and take care of their business in the cold, wet snow.

Oh, the weather outside is…

Whether it’s coming down as a blizzard or just settling down as a light frost, snow can prove a harsh condition for any dog. Aside from being cold and wet, snow is actually very hard on paws. Over time, the snow can cut into and “burn” your dog’s paws. The initial signs are irritation, which will often have your dog licking their paws incessantly. Despite what you may think, paws are actually quite sensitive. If you wouldn’t stick your hand in it, your dog isn’t going to find it any more comfortable.

The cold and wet environment is a factor on its own. Not all dogs are going to like these conditions, though you may find yourself with a breed that absolutely loves the snow. You have to be careful of the dangers lurking underneath though. Snow can be beautiful, but it has a knack for blanketing its environment. Dangers under the snow, such as branches, rocks, and even ice can become a hazard to an unsuspecting dog or even yourself. If you’re walking out, it’s easy to trip or slip on something unexpectedly, such as ice on stairs, which are already difficult for dogs to navigate in general.

Keeping warm when it’s snowy

Consider the advantages of indoor plumbing. Just as you have a restroom in the warm comfort of your home, your dog will enjoy similar benefits from an indoor litter box. The Porch Potty indoor litter box gives your dog the opportunity to go whenever they need to. There’s no need to face the weather or even come back inside soaking wet and have to dry out by the heater. Your dog can go when they need to without having to navigate the frozen terrain. And it does help to keep you out of the cold as well, especially when it’s dark out, limiting your sight and awareness of the environment.

And don’t forget, staying out of a freezing wet environment also means you and your pup have less chance of getting sick. After all, there’s no need to take risks when you don’t have to.

While the use of an indoor dog potty unit can help keep you warm and dry during the winter months, it’s still important to get out and provide the dog with the opportunity to get plenty of exercise. Just be sure you spend the time outdoors safely and only when you both want to have a little fun.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

Regular walks are an important part of your dog’s life and health. It provides exercise for both their body and mind, keeping them healthy and happy. So for every dog owner, walks are a serious responsibility. There are a few things to consider when going out for a walk though.

Where to walk

The first and most important thing to consider before taking your dog for a walk is to know the rules of the area. Are there any city regulations? Is there a fine for not cleaning up after your pup? What about curfews? Some owners might enjoy evening walks in the parks, but for those that live in the city or apartment complexes, rules can be a little different. Be sure you’re aware of what is and isn’t allowed.

Things to bring along

There are a few things that every owner should bring along with them during their walks. First of all, cleanliness is polite, and because your dog probably can’t clean up after themselves, it’s your task to do it for them.

Potty bags are a must-carry. There are some brands available with this purpose intended, but as long as it’s up and out of your neighbor’s lawn, everyone will be happy. You could use an old supermarket grocery bag, and latex gloves which are also fairly inexpensive and make it easy to pick and wrap up without getting your hands dirty.

While your dog is busy emptying themselves out, they will need to be refreshed regularly. A bottle of water and a portable water bowl (they’re flexible and can fit in your pocket) will ensure your pup stays hydrated throughout the walk.

Safety first

Leashes are perhaps the most standard item to have for any dog walk. In fact, a great number of dogs familiarize their leash with the opportunity to get out and see the world. Some might even bring it to you, hinting that it’s time for a walk. Make sure it’s sturdy and easy to hold on to. The last thing you want is for your dog to spot something interesting and break away easily.

Harnesses are excellent for younger dogs who are still working on their skills. This helps reduce the stress of a collar pressing against their neck and instead allows their chest and body to displace the force of any tugging. Just be sure that any buckles or straps aren’t rubbing against their sides. Some of those heavy metallic buckles can rub or bounce around as you’re walking.

Others out there

Is your pup friendly? Well and good if it is, but others may not be. This poses a difficult challenge, especially in an open dog-friendly zone (such as a dog park) where there are different dogs handled by different owners. Be cautious about other dogs, especially during new introductions. While your dog might enjoy the company of another, it doesn’t mean that the other dog is going to reciprocate in the same fashion.

Walks are an important part of every dog’s life. By ensuring they’re healthy, happy, and most of all safe, your dog will enjoy the walks they take with you, no matter where you go.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

One day it’s sunny at a reasonable fifty five degrees outside, and the next it’s windy with cold rain followed by ice and snow. Weather changes rapidly and unexpectedly, making plans to enjoy the outdoors something we’re probably going to have to put off for the time being.

Unfortunately, there’s one set of plans that can’t change, regardless of the weather. And that is your dog’s potty time. Whether it rains or shines, your dog will still need to take care of business. If you don’t have an indoor potty solution, you’re going to have to go outside.

Deal with the weather

If you live in an area where weather changes are the norm, you’ll need to follow the news to find out what to expect each day. This will allow you to dress your dog accordingly, and that isn’t limited to putting on a warm sweater. It includes such articles as snow booties as well.

If there’s rain, you may want to invest in a dog poncho to keep their fur dry while outside. These aren’t very expensive and you can even make your own. All you need is old cloth, some scissors and a little tape (be sure to cut a hole for their tail though).

Be cautious of the ice

One of the big surprises that often catch us off guard is the ice. Be cautious about ice, which can quickly form overnight and unexpectedly especially after it has snowed. The ground may look firm, but there is often a thin layer of ice over it, sometimes hidden by the snow which can cut paws or even break nails when your dog tries to gain traction.

If you suspect there is ice, you can sprinkle table salt on stairs and walkways where your dog might need to navigate in order to take care of business. This is relatively inexpensive and will keep the ice from forming, though it will still be cold. Be sure that you dry your dog up once they go back inside. A good once over with a towel will get excess water out of their fur and warm their body back up. Clean and inspect their paws as well. Dirt, salt, and ice can quickly accumulate inside of their paws (in between their toes) and cause irritation.

Wind, in combination with any other weather, sometimes on its own, can make things a little irritating for you and the dog. It’s often best to designate a potty location that has surrounding walls, such as beside the house or next to a building where the wind will be cut, protecting you from the more extreme elements.

Remain with your dog while they’re going about their business. Snow or even freezing rain can start in a matter of seconds, changing the environment very quickly and unexpectedly. For some breeds, exposure can leave them wet, shivering, and potentially sick. Don’t take unnecessary risks where you don’t have to.

Weather can change quickly in some areas, resulting in the most unexpected turn of events for your daily plans. Be sure that you’re prepared to handle whatever nature can throw at you so that you can ensure your dog stays safe from the extremes.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

With a new dog in the home, one of your first concerns is going to be housebreaking them into the new environment. This process takes time and consistent attention on the owner’s part, especially since young pups quickly pick up habits- both the ones they learn on their own and the ones we teach.

Unfortunately, we don’t always have enough time to expend all the attention they need. With the year’s end near and the busy holiday season redirecting our focus, it can be difficult to spend the necessary time with your new dog. But that doesn’t mean you can’t ensure they receive the training needed either.

What time do you have?

First of all, you’ll need to consider what your schedule is going to be like. Do you work late? What hours are you available to tend to your dog? The best place to start is to work the doggy time into your own schedule. Feeding times should be done on a regular schedule so that they will go potty when you’re with them. However, developing a timetable only isn’t going to address your dog’s needs while you’re away.

Space is important

A new dog in the home is going to have some unpredictable habits, so space should be limited, especially when you’re away. The crate is one of the best training aids for those that can’t keep an eye on their dog every minute of the day. This is primarily because dogs have the instinctive nature to resist eliminating in their eating/sleeping/watering areas. This could be perceived as their den, which also helps make them feel secure- as long as it’s not used for punishment. The crate needs to be treated as a safety zone where they can go if they feel frightened (thunder). The crate method doesn’t necessarily have to be a crate. It can be a room, just as long as they’re isolated from free-roaming the house.

Make things easier

Another helpful tool is the indoor potty solutions. These come in many different types, from the well-known pee-pad to the dog litter boxes. They are ideal for those that can’t be physically present to take the dog outdoors to take care of business on a regular basis.

Just as you would train your dog outdoors, you’ll need to introduce your dog to their grass litter box. In most cases, incentive sprays can be used to teach the purpose of the litter box. It is also a good idea to utilize pee pads that have been used and move them to the new potty location so they will have a sense of familiarity. The benefit is sourced from the convenience that your dog can use their potty whenever they need to, to avoid accidents on the carpet or sofa. Using them appropriately is something else though. As with any potty location, it is important that you select one unique spot to implement these tools. Avoid changing location after it has been designated.

Addressing your dog’s potty training needs does require your attention, but it doesn’t necessarily have to consume all of your time. With the right tools used correctly, the process of housebreaking doesn’t have to be a problem, rather it will be the solution.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

Have you ever seen a dog laying on the couch all day and said to yourself, “What a lazy dog?” Every now and then we do encounter a canine that seems to not be “in the mood”, sometimes for long periods of time (think a day). For many owners, this can be exactly what they need, that is if they’re looking for a pup to keep them company in a more docile fashion.

However, lazy dogs aren’t as eager to learn. They may not care or feel compelled to listen to you. They just want to curl up on the warm spot all day. This laid back nature can be good at times, but can cause issues when it’s time to potty.

Getting them motivated 

One of the biggest tasks you face is getting them motivated to be active. How can you get your dog to pay attention to you? A lazy dog might see or hear you calling, but may respond with a ‘not right now’ attitude. While they don’t really want to, it doesn’t mean they don’t need to. So, you have to find a way to motivate them properly – and in a healthy way.

The use of treats is the most practical approach to laziness. Dogs are often easily convinced by treats and will be inclined to follow you and do what you will. The trick here is that you should only treat them once they’ve carried out their duties successfully.

Try the treats approach if they won’t respond to direction (such as going outside or to their potty location on their own). Take them to that spot and stay with them until they do their business. The use of a command should be enforced, such as ‘potty time’, and once designated shouldn’t be changed. Be sure to avoid any similarities it might have with other commands they know or would learn in the future.

Unfortunately, this is also the moment where you’re going to be faced with a waiting game. Some lazy dogs may sit down and refuse to do their business. The use of an incentive spray may help stimulate their natural need to potty. Stay with them until they successfully eliminate, and reward them with a treat afterwards. As they begin to discover that if they go potty successfully they get a treat, they will be inclined to want to do it on their own. Throughout the process, it is wise to systematically reduce the size of the treat until there isn’t one and they have developed the habit of eliminating without the need for incentives.

In most cases, the act of keeping them active is a particularly good choice. Take them for regular walks, whether they want to or not. Take the time to practice basic commands, such as sit, stay, and return. This will help stimulate their mind and eventually promote a more active and attentive attitude.

Know when they’re going to have the urge. Organize a schedule, especially since every dog adores habit, even the lazy ones. Feed and water them at regular times throughout the day and avoid giving them frequent access to food (even if they don’t finish it).

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

There are various solutions to our dog potty predicaments, one of which is the grass litter box. Some are created with a unique purpose while others work to appeal to a broad range of different needs and wants. Amongst these is the Pet Patio Potty, designed with the needs of dogs and the wants of the owner in mind. This unique approach actually has its own benefits, but the real question is: will it be right for your dog?

The first thing to consider is that there are various different sizes so you’ll have to calculate what you need right now and what you’re going to need for the future (a growing puppy). The different sizes include: toy, small, medium, large, and very large, which covers almost nine square feet of space. That would definitely be too big for your average dog.

This unit employs a low profile design to appeal to easy mounting for smaller or even senior dogs. To appeal to the owner’s needs, there are two models, one composed of high-density polyurethane which is great for an outdoor patio application and the other is tiger wood for a more indoor appeal.

As for additional equipment, units up to the large size have an optional canopy to help protect from the elements. There are even sidewalls available for the males that tend to hike their legs when they relieve themselves.

The cleanup process is perhaps the most inventive. Unlike most units, the Pet Patio Potty uses litter to absorb any liquids. Though it does help keep scents at bay, the cleanup process is often longer and more tedious. Additionally, you’ll have to purchase plastic liners and litter regularly. It can prove to be quite uneconomical at the end of the day. It’s not simple, which tends to be a time consumer on its own and often times, simple is the solution.

To add to the complexity, the potty comes in sections instead of being one unified piece. The larger potty units are composed of several little potty sections joined together. That means you have to clean up discriminately, depending on your dog’s favorite spot. One patch may go untouched while another is overfilled. It can leave you lifting grass patches and searching for what you need to clean up.

The Pet Patio Potty is definitely a new approach to dog litter boxes. Combining two different methods, it seems to make the situation a little more complex than it should be. But, as your dog’s owner, you’re responsible for providing what is best for them to ensure a happy healthy life.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

Getting a new canine addition to your household is a dream for dog lovers anywhere, especially if you’re giving a home to a rescue dog. There is the concern that rescue dogs aren’t like getting a new puppy though, and the fact is that you don’t really know where you should start.

The truth is that when it comes to a rescue dog, you’ll want to start at the beginning. Do keep in mind that there are certain considerations to be made, especially since you’re not dealing with a puppy. You are in fact dealing with a dog that has already developed habits and will require plenty of observation.

The first place to start is to get general information from your shelter. Medical records, special needs, particular habits, and age are all important to know. As soon as possible, it is a good idea to take them to the vet and get a complete checkup so you know what to prepare for.

As far as housetraining is concerned, you’ll need to keep your house and your dog safe. It will be necessary to limit roaming space and keep them in designated areas while you observe their habits and behaviors.

Get them into a feeding and watering schedule. This is where information from your shelter can really help ease the transition. Feed them a similar food at first, but if you want to change their diet, do so by mixing the food gradually until they adjust to the new diet.

It is essential that you designate a potty area that is unique. Once you’ve chosen a spot, stick with it throughout the process. When they need to potty, go with them and observe their habits. The key to housetraining a rescue dog is complete observation. Consider yourself working from scratch, and start potty training all over again even if they are an adult or senior dog.

Do keep in mind that they may have previous habits to be aware of. They may have been raised in a confined area where they constantly soiled their bedding. Regularly check areas where they might be hiding to potty and clean them up immediately.

With love, care, and the correct attention, you’ll be able to adjust your rescue dog into your home and ensure their complete happiness. Always work through positive reinforcement so that even if they have a few bad habits, they’ll want to learn the good ones just to see you smile.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!

The task of housebreaking a new dog has always been a concern of dog owners around the world. Whether you’re preparing your canine companion to live indoors or just want them to understand the basic principles of your household, you must be ready to take control of your technique and practice the right methods that ensure your dog learns right from wrong when it comes to living in your home.

The first concept involves a dog’s very nature. They love to please their companion, and that is exactly the angle you should work from during the process. You don’t want your dog to fear you or fear doing wrong. Instead, you want them to want to do the right.

It is your first task to watch your dog like a hawk. Don’t let them roam around the house freely without restraint. Instead, allow them to earn their privileges.

As far as instinct goes, dogs don’t want to eliminate where they sleep, eat, or otherwise live. If you confine them to an area, you must also take them to a place where they can regularly eliminate without violating your home, or as they consider it, their den.

Clean up accidents quickly and with enzyme-based cleaners. While ammonia and other associated harsh cleaners will get rid of the smell, they can also be a toxic hazard for a dog that is curious. Not only that, but ammonia-based cleaners often leave a scent that is similar to marking or urine, which can easily confuse a dog or entice them to urinate again.

You must also establish a specific spot to potty. For your dog, this is extremely important, because they are looking to you for guidance. Once you do select an area, preferably isolated without distractions (such as toys or playtime items), continue to stick with the same spot and don’t change it. Dogs love habit and will quickly understand what they’re supposed to do when they go to that area.

As far as habits go, you should also develop a standard feeding and watering schedule. When they eat, they’ll eventually have to take care of business. If they eat and drink on a schedule, you’ll have a general idea of when they’ll need to potty and you’ll be able to control their habits from there.

Housetraining your dog doesn’t have to be difficult. As long as you both work together, your dog will quickly make a habit out of the housetraining tactics you teach them.

Keeping up with your pet supplies can be just another thing you don’t want to have to remember. After a long day at work and going to the store, the last thing you want to do is have to go “to the store” again. Consider home delivery of your pet supplies!