Things You'll Need:
- Patience
- Time
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Step 1
Be consistent as to when the dog is allowed into the back yard. After meals, first thing in the morning, and just before bedtime are good examples. The stable routine provides the dog with some ideas of when it would be appropriate to take care of businesses.
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Step 2
Go outside with the dog and walk over to the designated pooping area. Stand near the location, but say nothing. If the dog begins to wander into another area of the yard to poop, call the dog over immediately. This will slowly help the dog get the idea that this one area of the yard is acceptable for the delivery.
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Step 3
Once the dog makes the first “deposit” into the area, praise the dog enthusiastically. A smiling face coupled with a positive tone and a scratch behind the ear will help to reinforce the idea that using this area of the yard will bring about rewards.
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Step 4
Make sure to remain outside for at least several more minutes. This helps to convey the idea that going potty in the right place means that access to the sights and sounds of the outside world do not end with that particular spot. If the dog considers pooping to be the beginning of the adventure rather than the end, there is a good chance the dog will want to take care of business in the right place and then look forward to some fun sniffing, running, and spending time with you.
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Step 5
When the dog poops in the wrong spot, do not scold or discipline the dog. Instead, clean up the mess without making eye contact or speaking to the dog. Essentially, ignore the dog. This will convey that the activity was not acceptable behavior and will not result in the reward of attention in any form.
