Two Key Points To Housebreaking Puppies
Housebreaking puppies does not have to be a daunting task that most owners dread. Part of the problem is, we are so excited about the new addition to the family, and just how cute it is, that housebreaking the puppy is the last thing on our minds.
But, it needs to become a priority if you are going to be successful. Housebreaking puppies is definitely one of those things that, the more you put into it, the more you will get out of it – and the less daunting the task will be.
There are two key points to housebreaking puppies:
- They need to know who is boss – You don’t need to be a strong-armed disciplinarian, but the sooner they understand you are the leader of the pack, the better.
- You need to become a keen observer of behaviour – Your puppy housebreaking efforts will be much more successful if you learn to spot the tell-tale signs that your puppy is about to “go”.
5 Things That Can Help When Housebreaking Your Puppy
Natural Tendency
Dogs naturally tend to relieve themselves away from where they eat and sleep. Most puppies between two and four months of age quickly learn the concept of housebreaking due to their natural programming.
Efficient Digestion
Puppies have a quick and efficient digestive tract and feel the urge to eliminate 5 to 30 minutes after they eat. With a consistent eating schedule, you can maintain their regular potty trips. When starting to housebreak a puppy, ensure you bring them to a place that smells familiar and feels safe to do their business. Smell acts as a trigger, so after a few trips, your pup will want to eliminate in the same spot.
Your Efforts
Your efforts play a vital role in determining the success of housebreaking your puppy. If you are feeling nervous or impatient or trying to force your puppy to eliminate, that can cause stress. Encouraging your pup to do their business can be a distraction for them, so it can help to avoid talking at all.
Consistency
Every morning, bring your young dog outside in the same spot. You should remain consistent until your pet gets familiar with the scent and learns the habit. If your puppy is successful in eliminating outside, make sure to reward the good behaviour. A treat or a gentle scratch is enough to let them know that they have done well.
Positive Reinforcement
Never punish your puppy for an accident because that can make them feel negative about their own bodily functions and start to hide them. Stay calm and positive while quietly letting your pup go to the place where you want them to go. Housebreaking a puppy will take a little extra effort to teach them to follow a routine during their first weeks at home. Avoid becoming stressed and enjoy being a puppy parent.
5 Concepts for Housebreaking Your Puppy
Here are five concepts for housebreaking a puppy. Regardless of the order, it is essential to teach all five concepts to your pet.
First: Where to Go Potty
Choose an ideal potty area and ensure you take your pup to the same place daily. You should say “outside” every time you take them outside. Give a treat after your pet has completed the job.
Second: Where Not to Go Potty
Avoid scaring or punishing your puppy when teaching them not to go potty in a particular area. Dog training without fear is key to gaining the best results.
Third: How to Teach Them to Hold It
By cleaning any indoor accidents and praising your pup when they do their business outside, you will reinforce their instinct to hold it indoors.
Fourth: How to Teach Them to Communicate
Dog trainers suggest teaching your pet to ring a bell instead of whining, barking, or scratching a surface to let you know they want to go out.
Fifth: What Key Words to Listen For
Create a key phrase to encourage them when you need them to go to a specific place. You can use phrases like “do your business,” “go potty,” and more.
The dog trainers at Alpha Paws are experts at housebreaking puppies. Alpha Paws uses the same techniques dogs use in nature to train their pups.
Alpha Paws offers a variety of dog training programs, depending on the needs of you and your dog.
With Puppy Pre-School, a dog trainer will visit your home, any time before your puppy is 16 weeks old, and get your puppy training off to the right start:
- An analysis of your puppy’s behaviour temperament and personality type
- Learn how to communicate with your puppy
- Positive puppy games that are a fun way to learn
Puppy Pre-school is a one-hour, in-home session that is your first step in a lifelong, healthy relationship with your pet.
Contact Alpha Paws and let them put their skill at housebreaking puppies to work for you. Your puppy will get an early start on learning and you will be proud of your happy, obedient pet.
Also Read: Why Housebreaking or Potty Training is Important for Your Puppy
