How can I get my Coton to listen to me on walks?

by Art

Louie is just about 7 months old. The breeder trained his litter to use a litter box with pine pellets, so I got one when I brought him home.

He does use the box and I have washable pee pads under it. I try to take him out at various times during the day and at night. He will do his business outside at times.

Although he is very good indoors—affectionate, and attached to me (I live alone), outside is a different story. I am trying to get him to do his duty outside. However, when we go out, he starts searching for things to pick up in his mouth—stones, twigs, paper, even poop from other dogs. I have to watch him constantly so he doesn't swallow or choke on the variety of things he finds. It's not pleasant for either of us. I have to struggle at times to get the object out of his mouth. I think, for him, it's become a game!

Aside from the obvious problem with this, it's become a distraction from the purpose of the walk—to get him to do his business outside.

I try not to raise my voice with him but it is really annoying. I don't know how to handle this. Any advice?