A Quick Look Into Potty Training For Puppies

Your daughter is playing with one of your neighbor’s new Golden Retriever pups and wears the expression of bliss. The neighbor informs you that she is looking to give all the new pups away and that you are welcome to one of them. Your little girl hears this and yells with delight ‘Really? Oh Mommy! Please! Please!’ You agree. But not before informing the newly ecstatic girl that she must help out with potty training for puppies.

There are a few different methods to housebreaking dogs. An easy way is the use of newspapers or puppy pads. Pre-treated pads may contain a chemical that attracts puppies and encourages them to use the pads. Place these pads or newspapers on the floor in the area you would like your dog to begin its training. Whenever you see the dog sniffing around on the floor and/or walking in circles, pick him up and place in on the pads. Do not say anything until after he has done his business. At that time, you want to praise him and tell him how good he is. As the use of the pads is more successful, you can gradually move them closer to the door or outside completely.

Crate training is another option. The concept here is that if you set up a crate for your pup, it will become her special spot and where she sleeps. She will not want to make messes where she sleeps. Always take the dog out for potty before putting her in the crate and immediately after taking her out of the crate. Through crate training, puppies learn not to pee and poop inside. Most dogs can ‘hold it’ for up to 7 hours. This training method also teaches pups that they can control it.

Another technique is constant supervision. This may not be possible for everyone but is ideal for people who work from home and for retirees. This technique is simple. The owner or guardian watches the dog closely throughout the day for indications that it is time for potty. Once these signs are seen, the person simply picks the puppy up and takes her outdoors or to her pads. After potty is complete, commend the dog. Do not play with her on this trip outside; the puppy needs to know why she was taken outside.

Remember, these are puppies. They will have accidents sometimes. It is important not to reprimand him for the accident if you did not see him do it. Usually the dog will not know what he did wrong and this will not help in his training. If you do witness the accident, tell him ‘No’ in a stern tone and pick him up and take him to his pads or outside. If he finishes his business in the right area, remember to praise him.

Getting the whole family on board with whatever housebreaking technique will make the process less stressful for any one individual and provide the dog a consistent potty training message. Involving your children teaches them responsibility and advances the bonding process with the dog.

If a vacation or unexpected business trip arises, your pooch’s progress is training can be undone. Hiring a pet sitter for these occasions is the best way to avoid heading back to square one. They will be able to continue with the housebreaking process in your absence. Just make sure the sitter knows exactly what your methods are and how far along your pup has come.

Bringing a new puppy into your home will provide both of you with a lifetime of love and camaraderie. By ensuring proper bathroom habits early, you will suffer less stress and be able to fully enjoy your new friend.

Last 5 posts by Daniel Melton

• Things You Need To Know About Crate Training Dogs - February 23rd, 2010