Puppies are usually unable to control their bladders and bowels until 12 weeks of age. The housebreaking of your pup should begin immediately upon arrival at home. Patience and consistency are keys to getting the job done right.

1. Set a schedule and stick to it. Get up at the same time each morning and take your puppy outside. Feed him (or her) at the same times each day and then take him out right after eating.
2. Watch for signs of sniffing, circling, or pacing. If you see these signs, take him out immediately. If you catch him in the act, firmly say “no” and take him out to finish. Praise him when he finishes outside. Do not punish by hitting or pushing his nose in the mess. The only thing you will be teaching him is to fear you. If you don’t catch him in the act, but find the mess don’t punish him. He will not connect the punishment with the mess.
3. Select a word that associates with the action. We used the word “outside” for our dog. Whatever word you choose, use it consistently. Use the same areas of the yard for his business. The odor will encourage him.
4. Kennel your dog when you are away from home. Do not allow the dog to stay in the kennel for more than six hours. If you choose not to use the kennel, then set him up in a room with a non-absorbent floor. Place absorbent pads at one end of the room and his bed at the other end.
5. Praise the dog when he behaves. Keep a definite routine. Never punish physically when he makes a mistake.

Be patient in your training. The pup wants to make you happy. He just needs to know how.

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This entry was posted on Thursday, October 8th, 2009 at 2:35 pm and is filed under Pets General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.