Housebreaking a dog or puppy is often the most stressful aspect of owning a pet. However, the process can be less challenging if you have a few tips to help you out. This article will give you pointers on dog potty training based around the concept of accident prevention rather than punishment.
Most dogs are housebroken as puppies, so let’s start with talking about potty training a new puppy. First, it is important to know that puppies do have limited bladder control, so accidents are going to happen. The first thing you need to do is introduce your puppy to a crate, a place that is his own and where he can be confined when you are unable to watch him. This is one of the best ways to prevent your puppy from soiling areas around the house. There are housebreaking pads available at pet stores that you can place in your puppy’s crate for him to go on while you are away.
One of the best things you can do for your puppy (and your sanity!) is to develop a regular routine as soon as you can. Try to feed him, take him outside, and put him down for bed around the same time every day. This will get his “body clock” set to the routine and he will eventually learn to rely upon this, as long as you follow through on your part and keep the routine as constant as possible, at least until your pup gets a bit older and develops more bladder control and adaptability.
Hitting your puppy when he has an accident is not correcting the problem. This can, in fact, make your puppy develop a nervous tendency in which he loses control of his bladder any time he feels he has upset you. Try your very best to take him out about 15 – 20 minutes after meal time, as puppies have very small stomachs and will be ready for the potty soon after eating. Try to keep your eye on your pup, so that if he does have an accident, you can correct him during the act and he will quickly understand the link between the word “No!” and going potty inside.
Potty training your puppy can be a trying time, but a bit of patience and determination will see you through the process. Just remember: develop a routine and take your puppy outside about 15 minutes after meal time. Soon, you will find that training becomes even easier, at which point you’ll want to start training him not only for obedience, but also for using items such as pet stairs instead of jumping onto furniture. Pet steps are much better for your dog’s joints and reduces the likelihood of your dog developing arthritis or sustaining an injury from falling off of high furniture.
Posted under housetraining
This post was written by admin on August 27, 2009
