litter box traning

Question
I have a 9 month old yorkie that I am litter training, but she has yet to get the hang of it.  She uses the litter box all of the time while I am at home with her.  However, during the night and while I am at work she potties on her bed.  I have the crate set up with the litter box in the back and her bed in the front.  I have been giving her treats on her bed and I also made the space smaller.  Nothing seems to get her beyond this.  Let me know if you have any suggestions please. Thanks!

Answer
Hi Rochelle,

A dog's natural instincts is NOT to go to the bathrooom where it sleeps. That's the concept behind crate training.
By putting your dog's litter pan inside her her crate, you're confusing the dog as to where she should "go".

It may help to clean your dog's bedding with an enzymatic cleaner, such as Nature's Miracle, so she won't be attracted back to soiling on the bedding.

Next, you need designate the area to be used for the litterbox and/or papers. This area should not be inside your dog's crate. You may need to put your dog in a small room, and use a child gate to keep her contained.

Best of luck,
Patti