Housebreaking a dog can be a frustrating time but is an essential lesson in how to train a puppy. It may seem like no matter what you do you cannot get your dog to “Go” outside and then end up cleaning up a mess or puddle in your home. This can drive you to consider pee-pads or dedicating an area inside your home for your dog’s relief. It may even be the case that your dog knows exactly what you need him to do when he is outside but chooses to not do it – just to test your housebreaking strategy. And shouting, baby talk, and overall frustration play right into the dog’s poor potty habits.
Usually the issue can be cured by improving the strategy for housebreaking your dog by focusing on a conscientious training schedule. Teaching him when you are giving him the opportunity to relieve himself is the first order of business. This is the beginning of dog obedience training.
Training tips for housebreaking your dog:
- If you suspect there may be a medical issue related to housebreaking your dog have your veterinarian check for a medical issue.
- Anticipate when your dog is likely to need relief and take him out specifically for the event.
- Monitor the amount of food and water he gets throughout the day so he isn’t over-drinking or gorging himself at mealtime.
- When housebreaking a puppy have him on a leash, be patient, and teach a command like “Do your business” when you take him to the appropriate spot.
- Do not use baby talk. This is a good time to practice ignoring your dog while being aware of their progress. Do give gentle praise when your dog has relieved himself.
- Always clean up after your dog. Dogs dislike a minefield as much as we do.
- Trust that this issue will be overcome with patience and a consistent schedule.
- Older dogs may need rigorous dog obedience work to overcome poor potty habits.
