Keeping snow-shy puppies & small breed dogs on track with housetraining is a cinch with one simple idea

Though it's not been the case so much the season so far, Michigan is no stranger to snow. Despite the fact that many dogs really love the white stuff, clients and readers often lament about their small and toy breed dogs – and yes, puppies – who refuse to go outside and get business done in the winter. It's not that uncommon, and you can't blame the pets for feeling the way they do.

Frustrated humans who are unable to convince their furry friends to get busy if it has snowed in many cases resort to using absorbent potty pads indoors. This isn't a terrible option, but understandably with puppies, wanting to stay on track with good outdoor habits that have been established is key. 

One way to keep the momentum going is with with help of something you likely have in your shed or garage: a tarp.

Before the next snowfall, simply lay out a tarp in a grassy area of your yard that your pooch prefers (ideally by the door). When it's time to go out, pull back the tarp and voila! Your pet has a snow-free area to use. 

Granted, not all snowfall is created equal – it can range from light and fluffy to heavy, wet precipitation to an icy mix, so getting out every so often to remove any accumulation before it gets too heavy to lift away might be needed. In any case, this idea can help to make the snowy season more manageable for every member of the family. 

Lorrie Shaw is a freelance writer and owner of Professional Pet Sitting. Shoot her an email, contact her at 734-904-7279 or follow her adventures on Twitter.