Housebreaking your new pup is not hard, but does require a commitment on your part. The key thing to remember is that dogs thrive on consistent cues and routines. Here´s some more info about training your puppy:
- Remember that dogs pretty much pay attention to what´s right in front of them. If they make a mess in the kitchen, and you come in a few minutes later, they don´t know that they´re being scolded for going in the house, only that the mess upsets you. Cause and effect is not really a canine concept. This is why dogs can look "guilty" when they´ve made a mess -- they know only that the mess is what makes you mad. If you don´t catch them in the act, don´t make a big deal. Just take them out to their "spot" immediately, in case they still need to relieve themselves. If they do go there, praise them extravagantly and reward them with a treat right then. They will connect going where they are supposed to with love.
- It will be easier to train your puppy if he is on a regular feeding schedule. Puppies should eat three times a day, and be transported directly to their "go spot" about 15-20" after eating. They are simply too young to have the self-control to hold it, and this will reinforce the "go here, not there" lesson by having them where they are supposed to go when they need to go.
- The above tip will help you teach your dog to eliminate on command. Also, don´t rush the dog back in immediately -- they will learn to wait to go, so they can stay outside near all the fun smells and sights longer.
- It will be easier to train your puppy if he is on a regular feeding schedule. Puppies should eat three times a day, and be transported directly to their "go spot" about 15-20" after eating. They are simply too young to have the self-control to hold it, and this will reinforce the "go here, not there" lesson by having them where they are supposed to go when they need to go.
Your puppy really, really wants to please you. Make it easy for him by being consistent. Be stern-voiced when he does the wrong thing. Lavish him with praise and attention when he does the right thing -- this applies to everything, but is particularly useful when housebreaking.
