Training 101: Housebreaking When at Home…
When you get a new puppy, one of the first things to do is begin housebreaking him. A puppy’s day is very much about eating, playing, and… eliminating. In the early going, he’ll simply be a boundless ball of energy and it will take time and patience to work with him to understand that there’s a correct place to “go” and a wrong one.
However, it’s imperative that you never scold should he choose the “wrong” spot from time to time. Expect setbacks along the way, but be confident that your puppy is brilliant and that he’ll get it soon enough. The best way to help him is to praise him each and every time he goes in the correct spot. He’ll be thrilled and will associate that place/spot with all good things.
Keeping an eye on your pup
As for housebreaking methods, today, we’ll talk about a scenario in which you’re able to stay with your puppy at all times. The most obvious advantage of this is that you’ll be able to keep an eye on him, and more times than not, help him get to the “correct” spot(s).
When in the house, consider keeping your puppy on a leash in the beginning to ensure you can lead him outdoors when it’s time. Since you’re a constant for him, watch his behavior. If he begins to circle, recognize this as him preparing to eliminate. Lead him outside and when he does relieve himself, enthusiastically praise him for doing so. He’ll quickly begin to make the connection. Also, try establishing a word-association. When he eliminates, repeat a word like “outside.”
To further encourage your pup, take him outdoors regularly. Create a routine for him. Let him out after he eats, drinks water, wakes up, has a play session, or sniffs around. Once outdoors, let him explore and find an elimination spot of his choosing. As you guide him, let him feel as though he’s guided you.
Early development
In a puppy’s early development, note that he won’t yet have firm control over his bowel or bladder until about six months. As a result, he’ll need to go more often than an adult dog. On average, a puppy will need to relieve himself (at least) 6-8 times a day
Thus, if you’re able to be with your pup all day/night, it’s important to take this time to create various routines for him. This goes for his eating, play time, and even the door he walks through to get outside. All of these will help create order in your puppy’s new world and lead him to establishing good habits, like knowing when it’s time to go “outside.”
Dog Training
