Does Your Dog Not Know What to Do With the Doggy Bathroom?
If your pup is giving the Doggy Bathroom a confused side-eye—or worse, lying down in it like it’s a spa lounge—you’re not alone.
While the Doggy Bathroom is thoughtfully designed for indoor potty needs, it still takes a bit of guidance to help your dog understand what it’s really for. With a few simple techniques, you can turn that confusion into confident use.
Start by tapping into your dog’s strongest instinct: scent. Dogs naturally gravitate toward places that smell like them—or like other dogs. Place a lightly used pee pad inside the Doggy Bathroom to spark recognition. If you have access to a pad used by another dog, even better. The familiar scent will act as a powerful cue that this is a spot meant for doing their business, not for lounging.
To keep the message clear, make sure your dog’s eating, sleeping, and potty zones are well separated. Dogs may occasionally lie down inside the Doggy Bathroom if it’s placed in a familiar corner or close to their bed. If that happens, gently guide them out and redirect them to a more appropriate resting spot. It’s all about reinforcing the right association with the space.
If you’re just introducing the Doggy Bathroom for the first time, start with the Tray by itself. This open setup can feel less intimidating and helps your dog focus on the surface without being distracted by the enclosure walls. Once they’ve used the Tray confidently, you can snap on the vertical rails or full enclosure to complete the setup.
Consistent potty cues also make a big difference. Use a verbal command—like “bathroom” or “go pee”—every time you guide them to the Doggy Bathroom. When they successfully use it, reward them right away with enthusiastic praise or a small treat. Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective tools in any dog parent’s toolkit.
Every dog learns at their own pace. Some take to the Doggy Bathroom right away, while others may need a few days (or even weeks) to build the habit. That’s totally normal. With patience, scent cues, and a clear setup, your pup will catch on—and you’ll both enjoy the convenience of a clean indoor potty routine that works in every Canadian season.
Suggested Reading
Mastering the Doggy Bathroom: A Training Guide
