House training a puppy can be one of the trickiest parts of having a new furry loved one in your life. However, even though it is a little difficult, it is important to do it correctly and as soon as you can. After all, no one wants to be cleaning up after their dog for the rest of their life.
Here are the best ways to house train your puppy:
ESTABLISH A ROUTINE
This is the first thing you need to do to get on the right track. And consistency is key with house training so stick to your schedule as much as possible. It’s important to take your puppy outside frequently, first thing in the morning and at least every two hours throughout the day, and especially after eating or drinking.
Next, you’ll need to get them on a feeding schedule. This will help you determine the time of day that they will need to go potty. Lastly, get in the habit of taking away their food and water dish 2-3 hours before bedtime to help them not have to go potty in the middle of the night.
CREATE A POTTY SPOT
Designate one area of your yard to be their potty spot. Take them out on a leash to that same spot every time. As they go use a cue phrase, such as “go potty.” Then, after a while, you can use that cue word before they go inside to remind them to go outside. And don’t forget to give them lots of praise and treats when they go potty outside, the positive reinforcement is imperative.
ALWAYS SUPERVISE AND CONFINE
You need to supervise your dog at all times in the house. When you’re not able to watch them put them in a crate. If you don’t have a kennel, put them in an area small enough to where they can only lay down, but not turn in circles. Once they have been in a crate for a long period of time, take them outside as soon as they are let out.
Also, while you’re in the room with them tether them to a chair with a leash (4-6ft). Make sure you are supervising them, but don’t actually interact with them. As soon as they show signs of needing to eliminate, take them out to their potty spot immediately.
Some signs to look for:
- Spinning in circles
- Barking
- Scratching at the door
- Sniffing
- Squatting
DON’T BE UPSET WHEN ACCIDENTS HAPPEN
Scolding your pet for eliminating inside is not going to help train them. If you catch them in the process then stop them and take them outside to finish. If you find it already done, it’s too late for correction. If they are afraid of getting in trouble they will start to hide it or even eat it to hide the evidence. Both of these behaviors only undermine the house training process.
STAY CONSISTENT
Consistency really is key when it comes to training your new dog to use the bathroom outside or in a specific area. Only following the routine sometimes will confuse your dog and cause more accidents, it basically sabotages all your efforts leaving both of your frustrated.
Routine and consistency are really important when house training your puppy. So, don’t forget to give a pet sitter a call anytime you’re not able to be home to continue training. If you need help while you’re a work don’t hesitate to give a call to set up services.
*Miami Pet Concierge provides professional and quality care for Miami’s pets. Our customized care is based on our client’s pet’s breed, age, and health. Keeping your pets “happy, healthy, home”! ™
Nicole founded Miami Pet Concierge in May 2007 with a mission to provide Miami, Florida’s pet parents with personalized pet care plans based on their pets’ species, age, breed, health, and lifestyle – All while keeping their pets “happy at home.” In addition, offering pet care education to all pet owners to help them become great pet parents.