š¾ Puppy house-training tips š¾
Housebreaking ranks high on the frustration list for dog owners.Ā We recommend crate training to help potty training go smoothly and quickly. Crate training also holds many other benefits, but we are just going to discuss potty training for now.
Things youāll need
- Medium sized, wire crate with moveable divider panel
- Safe chew toys, such as a KongsĀ®, NylabonesĀ® & Deer Antlers
- Sheet or blanket to cover the crate when/if necessary
- High quality food
- High quality, soft, small dog treats
- Patience, time & consistency
Place the crate in a location like a bedroom, kitchen or laundry room.Ā It should be in a medium-traffic area that is not too far from the door you will take the puppy out of to go to the proper potty area (preferably a fenced in yard).
Take your puppy out often, depending on age. Most young puppies (under 12 weeks) need to go out every 25- 45 minutes. Increase the time gradually as the puppy becomes more reliable with potty habits.
When to take puppy out:
- First thing in the morning
- 10-20 minutes after eating breakfast
- After 15 minutes of play (this includes if he is in the middle of play)
- Every 20-45 minutes depending upon age, when heās awake
- As soon as he wakes up from a nap
- Just before going into the crate (anytime day or night)
- During the night every 2-4 hours if under 12 weeks of age
When your puppy is out of his crate, tether him to you as you walk around the house so that he cannot have an accident. Follow the instructions above on when to take him out.
The best advice is to never allow a puppy to have an accident. You can ensure this doesnāt happen if you take the puppy out often and always have an eye on him.
What to do when your puppy is in his potty area
- Take your puppy out on-leash to his potty area so he cannot become distracted
- Give your puppy a maximum of 10 minutes to go potty in the appropriate area
- Reward your puppy as soon as he finishes going potty
TROUBLESHOOTING
- Have your puppy go in circles (guide with leash) to get him to eliminate quicker
- If puppy doesnāt eliminate within 10 minutes take him back in & place him in crate; try again in 10
- If puppy is having accidents either take out more often, supervise more closely or rule out medical reasons such as urinary tract infections or bladder problems
In Home Trainer
Meet Steve Haynes, Dog Specialist and Behaviorist. Even before you get your puppy, Steve will send you an email to schedule your Puppy Prep Session. Whether youāre a seasoned dog owner or a first-time dog owner, everyone begins on the same page.
The Puppy Prep Session is on us, but donāt stop there!
Continue your sessions with Steve via Zoom or email and gain access as a member of the Golden Cavaliers family.
Thereās a lot to cover when getting a new puppy, especially if itās been a while.
Considering training your pup to be a Therapy Dog? Ask about the Canine Good Citizenship training created and developed by the AKC. Steveās got you covered, and can train your dog to be prepared for the CGC test. The goal of any training is to ensure your dog is well-behaved around new people and environments, even if youāre not with them.
Learn more here ā http://www.akc.org/events/cgc/index.cfm.
Check out Steveās website at dogspecialist.com or email him at steve@dogspecialist.com.
