Expert: Liz Gregory - 8/18/2009

Question
Hi, I have a 5 month old CKCS. She is absolutely wonderful. So sweet and loving.

My question is about potty training. She goes potty outside and we always praise her so I think she knows that it is okay to go outside. However, she will still go inside as well. She is just not getting that she should go outside only. Do you have any advise on how to make that click? You mentioned not giving he praise when doing it inside but is there anything else we should do? I would love it for her to "tell us" when she has to go.

Also, should she already be potty trained at 5 months? How long does it generally take to potty train a CKCS?

Thanks so much!!

Answer
Hi Anita,
All small breeds take a little while to get the idea that they aren't supposed to 'go' in the house. You are going to have to start over with housebreaking, but really it won't be as difficult. Everytime she eats/plays/wakes up or does anything different and exciting, take her outside. Do let her know in a stern voice, if you see her going inside the house, that this is unacceptable behavior. Since cavaliers are NEVER spoken to sternly, they do not like it.
5 months is pretty average for when cavaliers are very well trained and have very few accidents.
Good luck with the training!
Liz