Puppy Housetraining Tips

Achieve best results with our results-oriented techniques

Teach your new pet the house rules with our tips for housetraining methods, feeding schedules, and motivators

When you bring a new puppy into the home, one of the first things you'll need to do is start the housetraining process. It's critical that you begin training early to prevent bad habits from forming. The first decision you'll need to make is which type of training method to use.

Paper Training

For small, indoor puppies, paper training is a popular solution. With this method, you'll place layers of newspaper in a corner (with cardboard or another protective material beneath). Encourage the puppy to eliminate on the paper, and then remove the soiled layer after each use.

Crate Training

Crate training is another popular method for housetraining. Purchase a crate that's just big enough for him to stand and turn around, and put a comfortable bed inside. Place your pup inside the crate and watch him closely-when he begins to pace in circles and sniff the corners of the crate, that's a cue that he needs to head outside.

Always take your pet outside after every meal, and before you return him to his crate. Over time, he'll come to associate elimination as a post-meal and pre-sleep behavior. Like humans, pups thrive on routine. Gradually, as your pet gains more bladder control, you can begin to extend the length of time he's confined to his crate.

Patience is key - never try to rush your pup into going to the bathroom. Don't engage in any play or other activities during these sessions-the goal is for him to associate these outings with relieving himself. Housetraining doesn't happen overnight; you shouldn't expect your puppy to achieve full housebroken status until he's approximately six months old.

Outdoor Training

If you live in a mild climate and there are no potential hazards to your dog, you might consider keeping him in a small, contained area out of doors. If using this method, you'll need to provide a sheltered area and plenty of food and water. The pup should be free to relieve himself on grass, dirt, gravel, or concrete. Don't line the shelter with carpet, wood, tile, or any other indoor flooring materials, or this will lead him to believe it's okay to eliminate on these materials inside your home.

No matter what housetraining method you choose, keep the following in mind:

• Refrain from scolding your pup for mistakes
• Always praise your pet each time he relieves himself in the designated area
• Stick to a regular feeding and watering schedule and always follow up a meal with a bathroom trip
• Never allow your puppy to relieve himself outside of his designated toilet spot
• Don't allow your pup to roam the house freely without constant supervision

Be sure to visit our trusted friends Drs. Foster & Smith and Only Natural Pet to buy products mentioned here.

We hope you find better living for your dog, natually.
John & Heidi Walsh
Pet lovers for over 20 years.

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