Toileting on command ... why?

HERE are two of the reasons service dogs toilet on command:

• The disabled handler can clean up after them easier if the dog toilets at a designated spot where they can reach it;
• The dog is toileted before going into public places or to a public place in an out-of-the-way area (the airport comes to mind).

How do we do it?
It's the easiest command of all to teach because the pooch has to go pee or poop no matter what! We start with the pup at eight weeks and take it outside on a leash (carry it usually at that age) and put it where we want it and give it a command like "Get busy" or "Go now" - whatever you want to name the action of toileting is okay, but always keep it the same word(s). You stand in one place and be patient - don't move! That is the key.

The pup will sniff around until he/she does its thing. Then, say "Good, get busy" and praise mightily. Puppies go all the time so they learn, the command quickly. My experience has, been that pups poo first thing in the morning, 20-30 minutes after eating, mid-day, and again before bed. They pee as often and will pee after excitable playing, so each time put the dog on a leash and take it outside and repeat the above.

That's six-to-eight training seasons a day or more! That is why it is so easy to teach. Now how does it apply to you? Well, maybe you live in a condo or an apartment and need to have more control over where you toilet your dog. Maybe you are in a hurry to get to work and you don't have 30 extra minutes to let the pooch smell every tree and bush in town.

Maybe you want the dog to toilet in a particular place in the yard. Maybe it is raining or snowing outside ... there are many reasons a pet owner would use this command. It also works for the, older dogs as well. They have to go poo and pee anyway, and if you refuse to walk they will squat.

Just be consistent and patient, that is always the key to dog training. See more training tips at http://www.sallysangels.com and view the work our service dogs do for those with a disability. - Sally