Aside from the obvious benefits of rescuing a pup in need, it is also an amazing way to promote responsible dog ownership and care. Still, the difficult past of rescue dogs can complicate training for some pups and owners alike, so we’re happy to offer some best practices to approach this delicate process.

Below are some tips from fellow rescue dog parents:

Assume that you’re starting from scratch. It is hard to know how much previous training experience rescue dogs may or may not have, so it’s best to get back to basics and work your way up. You might be pleasantly surprised. On the other hand - it might be more work than you anticipated. Either way, whether you’re working on table manners, obedience, or potty training with your Doggy Bathroom, each skill needs dedicated individual time for your pup to begin to learn the ropes. 

Luckily, once dogs understand the rules of the home, they’ll pick up quickly! Here’s a review of a rescue parent who found success in training with the Doggy Bathroom: 

“Love the Doggy Bathroom! I have 2 girls, a Yorkie and a Yorkie Poo who use puppy pads with no problem. However, a year ago I rescued a male Yorkie who loves to lift his leg. It got to the point that I was taping puppy pads to the wall! Took a few weeks, but he finally figured it out. Very happy with this product!” - Robyn R

Take your time. Patience is the key to success with rescue dogs. Making this training time a fun bonding experience is important for building the best habits and relationships with your dog. 

Focus on the positive. Positive reinforcement is always encouraging. The key to forming your dog’s new potty routine and manners is rewarding their good behaviour with plenty of treats and pats on the back - ok, and some belly rubs and scratches behind the ears. . Associating these new skills with positive outcomes encourages rescues to start seeking them out on their own!

But - also enforce boundaries. At the same time, it’s critical to gently but clearly guide your rescue away from alternative behaviours before they become habits. Remember: training-wise your pup is likely a clean slate, so it’s important to make sure they get off on the right paw.

Allow them to learn from mistakes. As we all know, dog training can sometimes feel like one step forward and two steps back, especially with rescues. Try your best to maintain a positive mindset, remain calm and continue to exhibit the desired behaviour and soon enough they will become your pup’s norm!