Reasons to Teach Your Dog to Use a Litter Box

As a dog owner, you'll understand the challenges of taking your pup outside to do their business several times a day. Whether it’s raining, snowing, or scorching hot, you have to brave the elements. And if you live in an apartment as I do, you may not always be able to let them out when they need to go. That’s why I decided to try something different: teaching my dog to use my cat’s litter box. Yes, you read that right. A litter box for dogs. It may sound crazy, but it works. I'll explain the benefits and show you how it's done.

What You’ll Need

Before you start training, you’ll need some supplies. Here’s what I recommend to prepare:

• A large litter box. It should be big enough for your dog to fit comfortably and turn around. Ideally, it needs low sides or a ramp for easy access. You could use a regular cat litter box if your dog is a small enough breed.
• Natural litter. The litter should be made of natural materials that are safe and comfortable. For example, paper pellets, wood shavings, or grass mats are all appropriate choices. But I suggest avoiding clumping or scented litter because it can cause health problems for dogs.
• Location, location, location. The litter box should be placed in a quiet and accessible location in your home. Place it away from your dog’s food and water bowls, bed, toys, or other distractions. I find the method to be most effective when the box is close to the living room, where my dog spends most of his time.

Before continuing, I recommend watching this video. It will help you understand the pros and cons of litter box training your dog. Then, read on to find out how to teach this skill step by step.

How to Train Your Dog

This is the fun part! The process of training a dog to use a litter box is not complicated. It just requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Here are the steps I followed:

Step 1: Introduce Your Dog to the Litter Box

One of the first steps to take is to let your dog explore the litter box and get familiar with it. A cue word such as “box” or “litter” can help them understand what it's for. Try making the box more appealing by putting some of their old feces or urine-soaked paper towels in it (gross, but it works).

Another way to lure your dog is to let them have some fun with the litter box or enjoy some treats near it. This can create positive associations and reduce fear or anxiety. Don’t forget to praise your dog for showing interest: reward them for sniffing or stepping inside it.

Step 2: Reward Them for Using the Litter Box

When they use the litter box correctly, congratulate them! You can do this by giving praise, treats, or toys as soon as they finish. This will help your dog learn what they did right and motivate them to repeat it.

Please avoid scolding or punishing your pet if they use the floor or carpet instead by mistake. This will only confuse and scare them and make them less likely to approach the box. Instead, calmly interrupt them and guide them to the litter box. I find it helpful to clean up any messes quickly and thoroughly to prevent them from returning to the same spot.

Step 3: Repeat Until Your Dog Learns

Keep practicing together until they master this skill. You may need to watch your dog closely at first and take them to the box often. This is especially true after meals, naps, playtime, or before bedtime. It will help your dog establish a routine and prevent accidents.

As they get used to this modified toileting method, try gradually reducing the amount of supervision you give. Offer them more freedom and access to other areas of your home. However, it's still wise to check on your pup regularly and give praise when they get it right.

Why You Should Try It

It may seem unconventional to teach your dog to use a litter box. But, it can have many benefits, including:

• reducing the risk of spreading diseases or parasites from feces
• making it easier to dispose of dog waste properly
• saving time and energy cleaning up
• preventing lawn damage from urine burns or digging
• avoiding conflicts with neighbors or authorities over dog waste
• creating a consistent routine for your dog
• giving you comfort when you’re not home

Of course, using a litter box doesn’t mean you should stop taking your dog outside for walks and exercise. They still need fresh air, socialization, and stimulation. But now you have more flexibility and convenience when managing your pet's bathroom needs.

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What If You Have a Cat Too?

Having a cat and a dog in the same household can be tricky, especially when it comes to their toileting habits. Have you noticed cats are very particular and territorial about their bathroom areas? They usually dislike sharing with dogs.

Separating Your Dog’s and Cat’s Litter Boxes

Ideally, give your cat and dog their own toilets to use. They should be in different rooms or areas of your home, so they don't compete or interfere with each other. Try to make sure that your dog can’t access your cat’s place, and vice versa. Here's a few suggestions:

• Use a door, a cover, or a top entry that only your cat can access
• Choose high walls and a small opening that only a cat can fit through
• Pick a dome or tunnel shape for your cat's space
• Place your cat's box on a high surface that your dog can't reach

Separating your pet's bathrooms will help them feel more comfortable, safe, and happy. It also prevents messes, odors, or conflicts from sharing.

Maintaining Litter Box Cleanliness

Keeping the litter tray clean and hygienic is paramount. It will make your dog more comfortable and willing to use it. Preventing odors or bacteria from spreading in your home is also a priority.

I suggest scooping out any waste as soon as you can and changing the litter regularly. You should also wash the box with water and mild soap or vinegar every week or so. A deodorizer or baking soda is also very helpful to eliminate odors.

Final Thoughts

As we've learned, teaching a dog to use a cat’s litter box can be a very effective solution to fulfilling their bathroom needs. And both you and your pet could benefit from it. But remember, your dog still needs walks and exercise, and your cat still needs their own litter box and privacy. If you follow my tips, you can provide successful training and see quick benefits. Why not try it and see how it works for you and your dog?

Sources and Further Reading

• How to Teach a Small Dog to Use a Cat Litter Pan | Daily Puppy
  If your busy lifestyle makes it difficult to be home at certain times to let your small dog out, consider training him to use a cat litter box. This is a simple solution for busy professionals and for city dwellers who do not have much outdoor space
• Litter Box Training Your Small Dog | Pedigree
  Those who support litter box training say it can virtually eliminate 'accidents' since these dogs are free to go to the bathroom anytime during the day as needed.

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

© 2023 Louise Fiolek