Toilet for small breed dogs: how to choose

Litter boxes are usually purchased for toy breeds, as they can't be taken for walks in all weather conditions, and owners don't always have the time. There are also other reasons why it's necessary to keep a pet indoors for a few days, such as recent vaccinations or surgery, or illness.

Types of dog toilets

Of course, you can buy a regular basin and fill it with sand. But firstly, it's awkward for the animal to climb into, and secondly, it'll likely want to dig a hole and play in the sand, so the room will be constantly dirty. Plus, it has no odor-absorbing function.

Another simple, but also not very convenient, solution is a litter box with a false bottom. This is only suitable for temporary use, as such containers are made of low-quality plastic, which justifies their low price. A pet will use it two or three times, and the foul-smelling litter box will be impossible to clean back to its former glory.

When choosing the right litter box, be sure to consider your dog's size. If saving space is also important to the owner, a good recommendation is to buy a corner litter box.

Tray with a diaper

The dog needs to understand what is required of it, so simple models are widely used. You can take a simple litter box and use it with diaper (including reusable), but it's more convenient to buy a special cloth tray instead. It's easy to clean, and you can wash the diaper or simply replace it with a new one, as disposable sheets are now available at low prices. If the tray is made of high-quality plastic, it won't absorb unpleasant odors.

Toilet with removable post

This type of structure is also simple; it also has a tray, but also a grate and a post. It's very comfortable for male dogs, as they can use the litter box just like outside, lifting their paws. The mesh helps keep their paws clean. A litter box with a post is designed for small dogs, as larger pets are unlikely to use it carefully.

Trays with collectors

In addition to the container, there is a sturdy mesh mesh underneath which you can place a diaper to prevent odor spread. The owner can place a absorbent fillerUntil the puppy has gotten used to the new device, do not wash the container with strong-smelling detergents.

Models with absorbent fillers

This type of litter is found in specially designed litter boxes for small dogs. It's similar to the collector option, but without the mesh. It's filled with special materials that easily absorb liquids. It's best to use wood litter, as it's harmless. This is especially helpful if your pet is curious and wants to taste everything.

Closed toilet cubicles

Animals enter such houses to relieve themselves on their own, without being distracted by anything, so small breed dogs, especially as puppies, quickly become accustomed to such a litter box. Nowadays, such products are most often made of plastic, making them lightweight, easy to clean, and inexpensive.

Toilets with artificial grass

The structure consists of three layers:

• on top is a surface that imitates a lawn;
• in the middle - materials with a protective function;
• At the bottom there is a tray where the liquid accumulates.

Since the dog litter box is spacious, you can clean it even once a week without any unpleasant odors. This is very convenient if the owner is away and there's no one to walk the dog for a few days.

In this case, it usually doesn't take long for the pet to get used to the toilet area, as the mat on top imitates familiar grass. This design also looks great outdoors if the dog lives indoors. Ease of transportation is also a plus.

How to teach a dog where to relieve itself

At first, the litter box should always be in the same place. Place a clean cloth soaked in your puppy's urine inside. As soon as the puppy starts eliminating anywhere on the floor, take it to the designated spot. Sometimes dogs learn to go to the bathroom in specific corners of the apartment. In such cases, treating these areas with a deterrent, such as a vinegar solution, can help.

A reward and punishment system works well. It's important not to miss the moment your four-legged friend relieves himself in the right place for the first time—he should immediately receive praise and a small reward, such as a favorite treat. Conversely, the next time your little one leaves a puddle on the floor, scold him; the pet should sense your disapproval in your voice.

But if all these methods fail, you'll have to resort to more rigorous measures and send the unruly puppy to a small room, locking him in with his litter box. Unable to see the places he previously used as a toilet, the dog will likely go where he should.

Important! Using a litter box does not completely relieve the owner of the need to take their pet for walks. When cleaning litter boxes and containers, it's best to wash them without chlorine. Veterinarians warn that chlorine can even cause a pet to lose its sense of smell.

If the owner is concerned about aesthetics, it is better to opt for an original model with a grass mat for your pet.

Owner reviews

Arina, owner of a Yorkshire Terrier:

"I loved the look of the artificial turf litter box and its compact size. My Yorick got used to it on the second day. I bought a second mat to replace it; while one is in use, the other one is washed and dried. We've been using it for a month now, and so far everything is fine."

Katerina, the owner of several puppies:

"Since I have more than one dog in my apartment, using multiple pads is inconvenient, so I decided to try this new product. At first, when the little ones saw the grass, they decided to play with it and tear it up. The grass holds up well, but it might not withstand the pressure, so I'm trying to discourage them from playing with it by distracting them."

Read also:

• How to potty train a dog in an apartment
• Urolex for dogs
• My dog ​​is urinating blood: why and how to treat it