Can a Pomeranian Be Potty-Trained Indoors?

"Thanks for the litter box. It's too cold to go outside."


Furry, smart and inquisitive, Pomeranians are undeniably cute little dogs. They also have a reputation for being hard to housebreak. If you train yours to do her business indoors as well as out, you'll make life a lot easier for both of you.

A Little Dog

According to the American Kennel Club, the ideal Pomeranian weighs between 4 and 6 pounds. That's a little dog. The tiny canine has a smaller bladder and bowels but a relatively large metabolism. For his size, he processes more water and food than bigger canines, so he must eliminate more frequently. You might be able to take a medium-size to large dog out every eight hours so he can relieve himself, but a dog the size of the Pom needs to go out twice as often. That's a major reason he might leave you little surprises in the house.

The Great Outdoors

While Poms might eliminate outside without difficulty in good weather, inclement weather is another story. These little dogs a harder time getting through snow and slush than other canines. Your Pom is bright and independent; why would he want to go outside in the rain? Indoor potty training is an alternative to going outside for elimination -- but once you start, you must always have the indoor option available.

Litter Box

Purchase a litter box specifically designed for dogs rather than for cats. If you can't find a canine litter box, purchase the largest cat litter box available. If you already have a cat, he continues to use his own box. While you can place a kitty litter box in an out-of-the-way place, that won't work for a doggie litter box. It must be easily accessible, so your Pom will use it instead of peeing or pooping elsewhere in the house. Use litter marketed for dogs, which is larger than that designed for felines. The Pom won't instinctively cover his droppings as a cat would.

Litter or Paper Training

Canine litter-box or paper training doesn't differ much from outdoor potty training. If you opt for paper, you can use newspaper or commercially available pee pads. Some of the latter, while more expensive, contain scent attractants that help convince your Pom it is the place to go. You should establish a schedule, taking your Pom to the box or paper after he eats and at regular intervals during the day. Use the same command you used for outdoor potty training, such as "Go potty." Praise him lavishly when he gets it right. Until he's consistently using the box or papers, don't allow him the run of the house. You can limit his territory by closing doors or using baby gates.

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