It’s your yard, but it’s also your pup’s potty and to him, the two are one in the same. Prevent ugly lawn burns caused by dog waste from cropping up where you two play by making him a doggie outhouse.

How to make an “outhouse” in your yard

-         Find a corner or spot in your yard away from entertainment areas and where kids play. It should be large enough for your dog to stand and turn around on.

-         Landscape the area just for your pooch. Line it with an organic covering like pea gravel, pine straw or mulch. Not only do the coverings look nice, but they make for easy clean-up. Avoid using sharp rock or scented mulch like cedar. Scented mulches are often used to stuff pet beds and your dog may associate that smell with his bed and avoid using his “doggie outhouse.”

-          If your pup is male, add a marking post like a bird bath, rock or a lawn ornament. Some stores sell faux fire hydrants, which make fun and appropriate marking posts.

 Train him to use his new “doggie outhouse”

 You should consult a professional trainer, behaviorist or vet before beginning a new training routine, but here are a few general rules to follow:

- Familiarity and consistency are key when training your dog to use his new potty place, especially if he’s a puppy. During the training period, make sure you follow the same routine each time he goes outside.

- “Prep” the outhouse for your dog by putting some of his feces in the area. The odor trigger will help him understand that this is where he should go.

- To help him learn his new routine, use his leash to direct him to his new outhouse each time he goes outside to go potty. Allow for about two-three weeks for him to learn his new routine.

- Once he’s on the outhouse, direct him to go potty and wait until he goes. Then praise him with treats, a scratch behind the ear or your regular reward system. Try to be patient and don’t yell or scold him during the training process. You want your dog to associate positive experiences with his new potty, not negative ones that will dissuade him from using it. If your dog gets distracted, redirect his attention and tell him to “go potty.”  

- Always supervise your dog while he’s learning his new routine. If he eliminates before he gets to this designated area, don’t scold him. Follow through with the routine and take him to his outhouse.

- Try to keep his outhouse clean and pick up after your pup frequently. Replace the covering as needed.

 In just a few weeks, your pup will be using his new potty and you’ll both have a clean, green lawn to enjoy.