One of the greatest joys in life is the experience of bringing home a new puppy. Unfortunately that dream can quickly turn into a nightmare when it comes to the exhaustive efforts that are sometimes related to housebreaking your new puppy.
Potty Training Your Puppy
Most dog experts agree, the worst set-back associated with housebreaking a puppy occurs when the dog becomes confused or receives mixed messages early on in the process. Alternatively, the greatest strides in potty training your puppy can be achieved when you are clear and concise from the very start. Puppies need repetitive, succinct requests that they can associate with desired behaviors, so a laconic yet simple plan is the best and the most effective.
It is not necessary to hire a dog trainer when it comes to housebreaking puppies. The following is a comprehensive list of 8 simple steps to making puppy potty training a breeze.
- It is of the utmost importance that you choose where you want your puppy to potty and do not defer from that potty training spot throughout the process. Make sure that everyone within the household knows where the puppy is supposed to go, and remember that consistency is the key to successfully housebreaking a puppy.
- Upon arriving home with your new puppy, leave his leash attached to his collar. Allow him to sniff around, only for about 30 seconds or so, and immediately walk him out to his designated potty spot. If he goes be sure and praise him and even offer a treat.
- In an effort not to overwhelm your new puppy, confine him to one area of the house. This should be a place where he can experience the sights and sounds of his new family, but where you can monitor his behavior and watch for signs that he needs to go. (nose to the ground, obvious body language, etc). This will also help to prevent accidents which can cause major setbacks in the potty training process.
- Always supervise your new pup. Crates are a great tool for control when you are not going to be home. Dog trainers highly recommend crates, as dogs are den animals and do not mind being in confined spaces for routine periods of their day. Take your puppy outside to his potty spot immediately upon removal from his crate.
- For a small puppy numerous potty breaks are necessary. As they grow the frequency can become less. Proper obedience training for your puppy dictates that he be taken to his potty spot immediately after eating, drinking and upon awakening. A puppy is often stimulated to go after an intensive play period as well.
- If you are going to be gone for long periods of time it is very advantageous if you are able to have someone come in to take your new puppy out in the middle of the day. Upon your arrival home, always carry him from his crate (or designated limited area) to his potty spot. If he has had an accident is his crate, do not scold him, but be sure to thoroughly clean his crate with an enzyme cleaner to remove any lingering odor.
- Be sure and reward your puppy during the the potty training process. Be robust and clear with your praise, but not overly excited. It is always acceptable for him to understand that behaviors, properly performed, will most likely win him praise and a treat. Your puppy's greatest wish is to please you.
- And finally, do not punish your puppy for accidents. Housebreaking puppies requires time and patience and he is bound to slip up every now and then. Dog trainer professionals have discovered that punishment, even harsh words, only further to confuse and develop mistrust in your dog. Following an indoor accident, using a paper towel to retrieve his urine or fecal matter, carry him and his accident out to his potty spot. He probably won't have to go again, but it will help him to better associate his having to go with the appropriate place.
Housebreaking a puppy does not have to be an arduous or even daunted affair. Remember to be patient and repetitive with your methods and if your household is a working one, the potty training process may take a bit longer.
Following these simple steps for potty training a puppy can provide for a much more pleasant and successful outcome.
Related Reading:
Careers With Dogs
Helpful Source:
Cox-Evick, Chris, "Secrets to Successful Housetraining", Dog Fancy, July/2009, Pg 25
Valerie Modreski - Ms. Modreski has worked as a writer for over 30 years. Valerie began her career on the editorial staff of the Broward College academic ...
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