Tips on How to Train Chocolate Labradors to a Litter Box

The subject of how to train chocolate Labradors is far too extensive for a brief article. There is space, however, for a few tips on how to train chocolate Labradors to a litter box.

Yes, there are litter boxes for dogs. In fact, if you train chocolate Labradors to a litter box when they are puppies, you may not have to find yourself outdoors on a stormy night, holding leashes for adult Labs.

No Cat Litter

The first fact to remember if you intend to train chocolate Labradors to a litter box is that you should use no cat litter. Cat litter can be harmful if ingested, and Labrador Retrievers are notorious for eating anything and everything. So be sure you get only dog litter.

Some “litter” pans use no litter,

Seven Basics

1. You probably are intelligent enough to know that the best age to train chocolate Labradors to a litter box is when they are puppies. It is possible to train an adult Lab, but a lot of work!
2. Choose a litter box with a removable plastic liner on the bottom to train chocolate Labradors. The best are those sold specifically for dogs, as they are larger and more durable than cat litter boxes.
3. Choose a food treat that you will use exclusively for potty training. Be sure your puppy loves it, and invest in a large bag or box.
4. The best way to train chocolate Labradors is to catch them in the act of the desired behavior – using the litter box. Place the puppy in the box 10-15 minutes after he eats or drinks, and immediately after naps. Sit with the puppy until he relieves himself, and then heap praise on him. Give him a treat as you praise excitedly. Make sure he gets the same, delicious treat every time he goes in the litter box. After a few days, your puppy will look forward to the litter box, since it means praise and treats.
5. As you continue to train chocolate Labradors to the litter box, you may find them faking a trip to the box just to get the treat. Keep a positive attitude, realizing you might do the same thing in his place! Give him the treat and mild praise. If he fakes too often, give mild praise and no treat.
6. If you are trying to train chocolate Labradors that are used to going on paper, line your litter box with paper. If they are accustomed to going outdoors, line it with a recyclable dog litter. Do not make the litter any deeper than a thin layer, and be sure it will not clump. If your puppy is a digger, you will have problems!
7. On those occasions when your puppy begins to eliminate in the wrong place, clap your hands, pick him up, and carry him quickly to the litter box. Don’t get angry. If he finishes there, praise and treat.

Tips on how to train chocolate Labradors to a litter box would be incomplete without remembering to give a word of command. Whether you tell your Lab to “Hurry up” or “Go potty” or something else, help it make the connection between the command and the desired action.