How to Train Your Miniature Aussiedoodle Puppy: Potty Training & Kennel Training

Are you a proud new owner of a lovable Miniature Aussiedoodle puppy or thinking about bringing one home? Congratulations on embarking on this exciting journey filled with tail wags and paw prints! As a breeder, we understand the importance of proper training, nutrition, and socialization to ensure your furry companion grows up happy and well-rounded. In this blog, we'll be focusing specifically on potty training and kennel training—two essential steps to get you started on the right paw. Stay tuned for more tips and expert advice to come as you navigate the wonderful world of raising a Miniature Aussiedoodle!

Potty Training Your Miniature Aussiedoodle: Establishing Good Habits

Potty training your Miniature Aussiedoodle is one of the first and most important steps to ensure a happy, well-behaved puppy. With a little patience and consistency, your new pup will quickly learn the ropes. To kickstart the process, we use a litter box to guide our pups in the right direction. When you bring your Mini Aussiedoodle home, aim to take them outside every 1-2 hours to prevent accidents indoors.

Setting a Daytime Routine

The key to successful potty training is consistency. Here’s how you can create a daytime routine that will help your pup understand where and when to go:

1. Establish a schedule: Puppies have small bladders, so they’ll need frequent potty breaks. A general rule is to take your puppy outside every 1-2 hours, as well as immediately after meals, naps, or playtime. The more consistent you are, the quicker your Mini Aussiedoodle will catch on.

2. Designate a potty spot: Choose a specific area in your yard or nearby where you want your puppy to go. Each time you take them outside, bring them to this spot to reinforce that this is their "bathroom."

3. Use verbal cues: As you guide your puppy to their designated potty area, use a verbal cue like "go potty" or "get busy." This helps your Aussiedoodle associate the action with the command, making it easier for them to understand what’s expected.

4. Reward immediately: Praise your puppy and offer a small treat as soon as they successfully go potty outside. Positive reinforcement is key to encouraging repeat behavior.

5. Handle indoor accidents calmly: If an accident does happen indoors, stay calm and avoid punishment. Clean the area thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove any lingering scent that could encourage a repeat performance. Remember, accidents are part of the learning process, and staying patient will help your puppy feel more secure.

   
   

Nighttime Potty Training Tips

Nighttime potty training can be a little trickier, especially for younger puppies who are still developing bladder control. Here’s how to manage those overnight hours:

1. Limit water before bed: A couple of hours before bedtime, start to reduce your puppy's water intake to minimize the chances of a middle-of-the-night bathroom break. However, don’t restrict water during the day—especially after playtime or meals.

2. Set up a comfortable sleeping area: Your puppy’s sleeping area should be cozy but not too spacious. If you’re crate training, choose a crate that’s big enough for them to stand up and turn around but not so large that they feel tempted to go potty in one corner and sleep in another.

3. Scheduled nighttime potty breaks: For the first few weeks, expect to wake up during the night for at least one or two bathroom breaks. Set an alarm to wake yourself up every 3-4 hours to take your puppy outside. Gradually, as your puppy gets older and can hold their bladder longer, you can extend the time between these breaks.

4. Stay calm during nighttime outings: When you take your puppy outside at night, keep the experience low-key. Avoid playtime and excessive excitement. Guide them to their potty spot, use your verbal cue, and praise them quietly when they finish. This teaches your puppy that nighttime is for sleeping, not playing.

5. Gradually reduce nighttime breaks: As your puppy grows and gets better at holding their bladder, you can gradually eliminate the nighttime potty breaks. If your pup can consistently go through the night without an accident, you’ll know they’re ready for longer stretches of uninterrupted sleep.

   
   

Handling Accidents with Patience

Accidents are inevitable in the potty training process. When your puppy has an accident indoors, the most important thing is to remain patient and calm. Avoid scolding or punishing your puppy, as this can create anxiety and confusion. Instead, clean the area thoroughly with a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner to eliminate any scent that could encourage a repeat accident. Remember, your puppy is learning, and with time and consistency, they will improve.

Kennel Training: A Safe Haven

Introducing your Miniature Aussiedoodle to a kennel can be one of the most effective ways to provide them with a sense of security and comfort. A properly used kennel becomes their own little “den,” where they can rest, relax, and feel safe. Kennel training not only helps with potty training but also reduces anxiety when you’re not at home, promotes good behavior, and ensures your puppy has a cozy place to call their own.

Making the Kennel a Positive Space

To help your puppy feel comfortable in their kennel, start by associating it with positive experiences. Here are a few tips:

• Treats and toys: Encourage your puppy to explore the kennel by placing a few treats or a favorite toy inside. Let them sniff around and go in at their own pace. You want them to view the kennel as a fun, safe place rather than something to be feared.

• Cozy bedding: Line the kennel with soft, comfortable bedding or a blanket to make it feel like a true “den.” This adds to the comfort factor and helps your puppy settle in.

• Meals in the kennel: Feeding your puppy their meals inside the kennel can be another great way to create a positive association. They’ll begin to see it as a place where good things happen!

  
  

Start with Short Sessions

It’s important to ease your puppy into kennel training gradually. Don’t expect them to spend hours in there right away. Here’s how to approach it:

• Begin with short periods: Start by closing the door for just a few minutes while your puppy is inside with a treat or toy. Stay nearby and let them know you’re still there. If they remain calm, offer praise when you let them out.

• Gradually extend the time: Once your puppy is comfortable spending a few minutes in the kennel, you can begin to gradually increase the time. Always make sure they have a toy or chew to keep them occupied.

• Step away for brief moments: As your puppy becomes more comfortable, try stepping out of sight for short periods. This helps them get used to being alone without feeling anxious. Return calmly and reward them for being quiet and calm while you were away.

  
  

Establishing a Routine

Puppies thrive on routine, and kennel training is no exception. Create a consistent schedule for when your puppy will spend time in the kennel, such as:

• Nap times: Puppies need plenty of rest, and the kennel is the perfect spot for them to snooze without distractions. Encourage them to nap in the kennel during the day so they associate it with relaxation.

• Nighttime sleep: When it’s time for bed, place your puppy in the kennel and make sure they have had a potty break. Over time, your puppy will understand that their kennel is their nighttime sleeping space, which will help them feel more settled and less anxious.

  
  

Handling Initial Whining

It’s common for puppies to whine or bark when first introduced to the kennel. They may be trying to figure out what's happening or wanting attention. Here’s how to handle the initial protests:

• Don’t give in right away: If your puppy whines, avoid rushing to let them out immediately, as this could reinforce the behavior. Instead, wait until they are quiet for a few moments before opening the door. This teaches them that being calm leads to good things.

• Stay calm and patient: It’s important not to get frustrated during this phase. Your puppy is learning, and it takes time for them to adjust. Stick to the routine and reinforce positive behavior.

  
  

Using the Kennel for Potty Training

Kennels are also an excellent tool for potty training, as dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping space. Here’s how to use the kennel to reinforce good potty habits:

• Take them outside immediately after kennel time: Each time you let your puppy out of the kennel, take them directly outside to their designated potty area. This helps establish the routine that going outside is where they do their business.

• Watch for signs: If your puppy becomes restless or starts whining during kennel time, it might be a signal they need to go outside. Always reward them for successfully using the bathroom outside right after being released from the kennel.

  
  

A Safe Space for Alone Time

In addition to helping with potty training, the kennel can be a great tool for giving your puppy some much-needed alone time. Puppies can get overstimulated, and having a quiet place where they can retreat and relax is essential for their mental well-being. Over time, they’ll see the kennel as their go-to spot for rest and relaxation, whether you’re home or away.

Final Thoughts on Potty Training

Potty training your Miniature Aussiedoodle is a journey that requires patience, consistency, and lots of positive reinforcement. Whether it’s during the day or night, keeping a routine and maintaining a calm, positive environment will make the process smoother for both you and your puppy. Stick with it, and soon your pup will be confidently potty trained, leaving you both free to enjoy your time together!

Remember, each puppy is unique, so be patient, consistent, and above all, shower them with love and positive reinforcement. Training your Miniature Aussiedoodle is a rewarding experience that will strengthen the bond between you and your four-legged friend. Embrace the journey, celebrate the milestones, and cherish every moment as your puppy grows into a cherished companion!

Ready to welcome a Miniature Aussiedoodle into your home? 

Reach out to us today to learn more about our upcoming litters. 🐾