1 Tip, 1 Idea, 1 Quote.
On toilet training
Dog Trainer Auckland
July 22, 2025
1 Tip - on life with your dog
Echo's (not her real name) guardian was finding "surprises" regularly. Six months in, and her dream dog had turned indoor toileting into an art form.
Here's how we approached it: This wasn't defiance by Echo - it was simply a habit that needed reshaping, not punishment. The breakthrough came when we started celebrating the wins and ignoring the accidents.
Morning routine - Outside first thing, massive praise for any outdoor action (even just sniffing around!)
After breakfast - Same again – outside to her spot and praised for toileting
If accidents happen - Complete silence, gentle redirect outside, then party-level praise at her designated spot
Smart confinement - When alone, Echo stays in the laundry with her bed, toys, and easy-clean floors
Enzyme cleaner eliminates all scent traces (dogs follow their nose!)
After-work ritual - Straight outside, celebrate every success
The real magic? Week two of the new routine brought the turning point. Her guardian watched as Echo walked straight to her spot without prompting, tail wagging as she looked back at the house, almost proud.
Progress update: Echo's accidents have dropped by 90%. Her confidence has soared, and her guardian is feeling more confident too with her newest family member.
What's worked best in your pup's training journey?
1 Idea - on the leading edge
Your perfectly house-trained dog suddenly starts having accidents? Before you assume it's behavioural, book a vet appointment.
What looks like regression might actually be your dog's body sending an SOS signal.
Rule out health issues first, then address habits. Your dog's sudden change in behaviour could be their only way of telling you something's wrong.
1 Quote - on dogs
The best way to predict the future is to create it. Eliyahu Goldratt
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