Bringing home a new puppy or dog is an exciting experience. However one of the first challenges you'll face as a new pet parent is housebreaking your new housemate. Potty training can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and a little patience, your dog can succeed. Our guide will take you through the essential steps to housebreaking your pup.
Step 1: Create a Routine
Training your dog to relieve itself in the appropriate location requires consistency. Develop a consistent feeding schedule for your new companion and take them outside at specific times. Puppies often need to go outside:
After eating or drinking.
After waking up from a nap.
After playtime.
Before bedtime.
By keeping track of your training and sticking to a routine, you'll help your new pup establish a habit of going potty at the right time. Click on the image to Download your Free Housebreaking Progress Tracker
Step 2: Choose a Designated Potty Area To teach your dog where to go potty in your yard, pick a specific spot and consistently take them to it whenever they need to go outside. The scent from previous visits will help your dog recognize this as the designated potty area.
Step 3: Praise and Rewards
Positive Reinforcement is Key in Puppy Potty Training When your dog goes potty in the designated area, shower them with praise and reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is a powerful technique in dog training, and your furry friend will quickly learn that going potty in the right place leads to rewards and happy praise.
Step 4: Supervise and Be Alert
Keep a close eye on your puppy or dog especially during the early stages of housebreaking. If you're unable to supervise, use a crate or secure exercise pen to restrict their access to the rest of the house. This will prevent accidents and provide your furry friend with a safe space.
Step 5: Understand Signs of Needing to Go
Become a master of interpreting your dog’s signals for when they need to take a potty break. If you spot them sniffing around, circling, or giving off some whines, that's your cue to hop to it and take them outside pronto!
Step 6: Clean Up Accidents Properly
Mistakes happen, especially during the housebreaking process. No need to fret! Just be quick and thorough in tidying up any messes. Getting rid of any lingering smells is crucial to avoid encouraging your pup to answer nature's call in the same spot again. Use an enzymatic cleaner crafted especially for pet messes.
Step 7: Be Patient and Consistent
Housebreaking takes time, and every dog/puppy is different. Some may catch on quickly, while others may need extra time. The key is to remain patient and consistent with your training. Your dog will eventually learn how to go outside.
Housebreaking your dog can be a challenging journey, but with some serious commitment and a solid game plan, you can help your dog ace it! Keep things consistent, heap on those praises, and don't lose your cool when your doggo makes a mistake. With time, patience, and plenty of practice, your dog will be a model citizen in no time.
If you need extra guidance or encounter specific challenges during the housebreaking process, don't hesitate to reach out to our expert dog trainers. We're here to help you and your dog on this exciting journey of training and bonding.
Stay tuned for more informative posts from Animal House Academy Dog Training to help you and your dog on your training adventure!