Toilet Training your Rescue Dog

 Adopting a new dog is always an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also come with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to house training an older dog. But don't worry! With a little patience and perseverance, you can successfully house train your rescue Maltese.

Step 1: Establish a Routine 

Older dogs may have been living in a different environment with different rules and schedules, so it's important to establish a routine that your dog can follow. Take your dog outside to a designated potty area every 2-3 hours and always after meals and naps. Establishing a consistent routine will help your dog understand when it's time to go potty.

Step 2: Use Positive Reinforcement 

Use positive reinforcement when your dog does their potty in the designated area. Older dogs may have already developed some bad habits, so it's important to reinforce the good behavior of doing their business outside. When your dog successfully goes outside, praise them with a treat or verbal praise. This will encourage your dog to repeat the behavior.

Step 3: Supervision 

Supervise your dog when they are inside. Keep an eye on your dog, especially when they start to show signs that they need to go potty. Older dogs may have a harder time holding it in, so it's important to take them outside as soon as possible.

Step 4: Consistency and Patience 

The final step is to be consistent and patient. House training an older rescue Maltese may take more time and patience than house training a younger dog. Stick to the routine, use positive reinforcement, and keep an eye on your dog. With time and consistency, your rescue Maltese will become fully house trained.

House training an older rescue Maltese may come with its own set of challenges, but with patience, perseverance, and the steps we've outlined in this video, you can successfully house train your new furry friend. Remember to schedule a vet checkup, establish a routine, use positive reinforcement, supervise your dog, and be consistent and patient. With time and patience, your rescue Maltese will be a well-trained and well-behaved member of your family.

Try to read your dog's body language as they read yours. 

This can shorten the process of house training your dog greatly. A dog's usual body language before going to the toilet is walking around and sniffing different spots until he finds someplace that he feels is suitable for relieving himself, they may then lift their leg, may squat, or circle a couple of times before passing a stool. The more time you spend observing your dog the more you will understand his language correctly.

You must get to know your dog’s routine and that requires that you too must try to follow a routine as best you can.

Your goal is not to make your dog a nervous wreck, but rather to get his attention when he has started doing something undesired. He will quickly learn that this command for him means to stop what he is doing and to give you his attention. Your goal is to teach him to understand a single command, quickly, without having to reinforce it, this requires consistent reinforcing in the beginning, making sure he always responds to you when you say it.