 The one unpleasant aspect of owning any puppy is the job of
housebreaking. As cute as puppies are, each must be trained but
remember that every puppy will conquer housebreaking although at
a different rate. While some dog breeds can be housebroken in a
very short amount of time, other breeds can be quite challenging.
Dogs are creatures of habit; and once they develop a habit,
breaking it can be a long, frustrating process. Your dog needs
guidance and encouragement from you to develop a toilet habit you
can live with. Animal behaviorists have learned a lot about dogs
over the last couple of decades, and there are many tips
available that will make housebreaking your dog or puppy a less
frustrating task.
When you consider some of the things your dog or puppy is willing
to roll in, or put in their mouth, it's a bit hard to believe
they're picky and specific about their toilet areas. Dogs will go
to great lengths to avoid soiling near where they eat and/or
sleep. That means any accidents an un-housebroken dog has will be
far from its food dish and bed. To a dog, however, "far" can mean
about 6-10 feet. This leaves lots of "fair game" space in your
home, unless you guide the dog to suitable spots.
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Whether your dog is a puppy, or an adult dog new to your home,
the process is the same:
Every few hours, take the dog outside to a place you designate
as a "bathroom" area. 30 minutes after the dog or puppy eats, do the same. Stay in this bathroom area, and praise the dog lavishly when
they relieve themselves. If the dog doesn't use the bathroom when you've taken them
outside to the appropriate spot, try again 15 minutes later.
Continue doing this until they've actually used the bathroom
spot. When the dog is inside, watch closely for any signs of needing
to "go". A dog will circle and sniff areas when they're about to
relieve themselves.
How quickly your dog becomes housebroken depends partly on their
personality, but mostly on your diligence in taking them outside
at the right time. If your puppy is less than four months old,
you should plan on getting up during the night to take it
outside. Puppies over four months of age can usually "hold it"
through the night, but if your dog cries to be let out, it is
best to get up and let them tend to the urge. It is vital that
you give your dog every chance to succeed during this time.
Positive reinforcement of the proper behavior is the fastest way
to teach your dog anything.
Accidents happen, and when they do, your response will affect how
quickly your dog learns to "go" outside. If you catch your dog in
mid-squat, clap your hands or call their name loudly to distract
them. Once you have their attention, quietly and calmly take them
outside. Be sure to praise your dog or puppy well when they
finish relieving themselves outside properly.
If you find a wet spot or droppings on the floor when your dog is
not around, simply clean it up. If your dog approaches to
investigate what you are doing, ignore them. Don't talk to or pet
the dog at this moment, because it could be interpreted as
praise. Above all else, avoid yelling or physically punishing the
dog, because they won't make the connection between their mess,
and your anger. |
