How Do Service Dogs Go To The Bathroom: A Guide For Handlers

Is it possible to train dogs to urinate on command? Teaching your dog to perform this specific behavior is a relatively straightforward process. Dogs naturally engage in the behaviors you’re interested in, such as urinating and defecating. To train them effectively, you can use treats as incentives and employ a technique called “capturing.” Capturing involves identifying the precise moment when your dog exhibits the desired behavior, in this case, urinating on command, and rewarding them accordingly. This method capitalizes on your dog’s natural tendencies to make the training process smoother and more efficient.

Understanding a dog’s ability to hold its urine can vary based on its size. Smaller dogs weighing less than 10 pounds typically have bladder control for approximately one to three hours. Medium-sized dogs, which generally weigh around 30 pounds, can usually hold their urine for a range of 2 to 4 hours. When it comes to larger breeds, those weighing between 40 and 60 pounds can typically go without a bathroom break for about 4 to 8 hours. In the case of big breeds exceeding 60 pounds, they tend to have a longer bladder endurance, averaging between 6 and 12.6 hours before needing to relieve themselves. This information is current as of September 4, 2023.