It's dark, cold and snowing or raining... and it's time for your pet to go out to eliminate. The last place you want to be is outside walking your dog, but the only one who'd rather be inside more than you is your furry pal.
What do you do?
"It's not uncommon for pets to resist going out in freezing or inclement weather," says Nadja Torling, professional trainer at Best Friends "However, when nature calls, neither of you has much choice."
Some pets are simply averse to going outside in certain conditions, says Torling. For example, some small breeds such as Italian greyhounds dislike cold surfaces. However, with a little time, practice and patience, you can train your pet to go out, "do his business," and get back indoors quickly.
Get up and out
Best Friends professional trainers advise taking the following steps to coaxing your pet into going outside:
Exercise first -- Dogs often need to eliminate after a stimulating play session, and will be more cooperative about going outside when they're alert and attentive. Playtime can include mental exercise - like dog puzzles -- as well as physical activity.
Dress for success -- invest in cold weather clothing and gear for your pet, especially smaller breeds. A fleece sweater, raincoat and booties protect and provide extra warmth.
One step at a time -- start off slowly, and use plenty of positive reinforcement. Encourage your pet to stay out for just a bit, and then ease him into longer periods.
Incorporate rewards - every time it rains or snows, bring your pet outside and reward him with a high-value treat so he learns that being outside can be a positive experience.
When your dog makes mistakes
Sometimes a particularly stubborn pet will just refuse to go out. They may even have "accidents" in the house. This is not something you should tolerate; each time your dog is allowed to eliminate in the house, she learns that it's okay to do so.
In those cases, Torling advises, you must approach the situation as if it were the initial potty training stages: bring her to a sheltered spot, use your potty training words and wait. If she still doesn't go, bring her back in and try again in ten minutes.
If necessary, confine your dog - as you did when she was a puppy - to her crate or a small pen between these outdoor trips. Don't let her out of your sight until she takes care of business outdoors.
If your pet does eliminate in the house, it's critical to clean up thoroughly with an enzyme product that eliminates the odor. You may also want to block off the area so your dog cannot return to that area.
"You may never get an indoor-oriented pet to love going outside," says Torling, "but you can certainly get them used to it."
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