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We’ve all been there—shivering in the relative shelter of the porch as we attempt to convince our dogs to get out there and do their business in the pouring rain. There is no more worthy adversary than a dog who hates to get wet.
“Dogs probably don’t like going out in the rain for the same reason we don’t—it is just unpleasant,” says Dr. Bonnie Beaver, CVMBS, Professor at Texas A&M University. “We have the advantage of being able to use umbrellas and raincoats, especially to keep rain from hitting our face. Dogs don’t have that ability.”
Here’s how to tackle rainy day potty breaks and walks.
What To Do If Your Dog Won’t Pee in the Rain
Unfortunately, you can’t assume a rain-hating dog will just take care of business if you toss them outside on their own. Beaver says this is one of the worst mistakes pet parents can make.
If your dog won’t pee in the rain, start by going outside with them. Get a large umbrella and hold it over your dog. Cue your dog to pee or poop as you normally would, and lavish them with treats or praise when they take care of business.
If you have a sheltered area with trees or an overhang, try using that spot as a quick relief area.
Try not to go back inside until your dog has at least made a token effort at relieving themselves. A quick squat or leg lift counts—but if a tug back to the door is successful, your dog will know that they can quit when they choose.
If your dog still won’t pee or poop in the rain, don’t give them free rein of the house. Instead:
- Keep your dog with you on a leash or in a crate
- Try again for a successful potty every 20 minutes to an hour
If your dog will move, take them for a nice long walk with lots of praise and goodies. When they know they can’t just wait you out, they’ll likely do the deed.
For smaller dogs that like to be carried, you could try carrying them halfway down the block or so first.
If you’re truly desperate, consider using potty pads to avoid accidents, or revisit your potty training basics.
Chalabala via iStock
Will a raincoat help my dog pee outside?
A lot of pet parents wonder if a dog rain coat will get their dog to pee or poop in the rain. It might—but it depends on the dog and the kind of coat. As Beaver explains, “The thing that they don’t like getting wet is their head.” If your dog is amenable to clothes, you’ll want to find a good dog raincoat with a hood.
Other dogs don’t like getting their paws wet. Dog booties can be a solution, especially for walks. But all this gear takes time to put on a dog, so training a pup to go outside au naturel is usually more efficient in the long run.
How To Desensitize Your Dog to Rain
If your dog continues to be reluctant on rainy potty breaks, desensitization training can help them get used to water.
This means finding wet—but not soaking—situations where your dog will find it hugely rewarding to go out. For example, take your dog out to pee after you’ve watered the lawn, and give them lots of treats.
You could also try feeding your dog on the wet grass or playing with them in a sprinkler or hose to create positive associations with the feeling of wet terrain.
What About Rainy Walks?
Dogs need exercise as well as bathroom breaks. Some pups can be happy with a day of good indoor dog games, but for others, nothing but exercise will do—especially in wet seasons where it can rain for days.
If your dog doesn’t like to walk in the rain but you need to get them outside, start slowly. Pick times when the drizzle is lightest, then try the following:
- Keep it short—start with walks that are just a few minutes long
- Offer treats and praise every few yards
- Carry a favorite toy along, especially a waterproof one, and toss it as you go
- Bring a friend—sometimes seeing a friendly pup shrug off the rain can help your dog gain confidence
- Try some rain-repelling gear, like a warm raincoat with a hood, booties, or a waterproof collar
- Dry your dog thoroughly on your return so they’re comfortable, either with a towel or a dog-safe blow dryer
If nothing is working and you’re struggling to meet your pup’s exercise needs, consider working with a trainer who specializes in positive reinforcement techniques. They can help you build your dog’s confidence in the rain so rainy pee breaks and walks aren’t such a chore.
