Housetraining a dog is only the first step in an effective puppy potty training regimen. If a dog is going to be a traveling companion, potty training will need to go beyond the comforts of home. Good housetraining skills at home will certainly help a dog on the road, but there are some additional steps you can take to assure the next road trip with Fido doesn’t result in an emergency clean up in the car. Dogs respond very well to an effective training program, take some time well before your next adventure away from home to teach Fido some doggy road trip basics.

Potty on Cue

On the road, the most practical solution is to train the dog to use the facilities when the family does – while at the rest stop. Teaching a dog to eliminate with a cue will ensure a happier trip for everyone.

Teaching with a dog to act on cue begins with finding a word or action the owner demonstrates for the dog each and every time the owner wants the dog to complete a specific action. Choose a word you would not casually say to your dog to avoid confusing him and getting some unwanted surprises.

Some owners may say ‘go potty’ or ‘hurry up’, individual owners can find a word or phrase they’re comfortable saying. It’s very important to use the same phrase in the same tone each time – the dog learns by associating the word or phrase with potty time.

It will be easiest to start cue training at home, well before any planned trips. Start by introducing the cue word whenever the dog eliminates. When the dog goes outside, say the phrase and praise him for following your directions. Do it consistently for a couple of week and the dog should be able to eliminate on your command. Remember to praise him, and offer a treat if it’s part of the dog’s training program.

It’s important, during the training phase, to make sure your dog eliminates after the command to guarantee he is making the connection between the command and the activity. If you command and nothing happens, wait a few moments until the dog seems ready to eliminate and repeat the phrase. Connect the cue word with the activity whenever possible, even if it means making a few extra trips outside.

Like all dog training experiences, approaching potty training on the go should be a relaxing, enjoyable experience for the dog and his owner. Remember to use a calm voice and keep body language relaxed. The dog will take his cue from a relaxed owner, just as a nervous or anxious owner can make a dog equally agitated.

Teaching a dog to travel without accidents can be simple and mastered rather quickly. As long as an owner remembers to stay consistent, practice frequently and praise often, it should be a relatively painless experience for everyone. Dogs are excellent road trip companions, with a little planning.

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