The Secret to Housebreaking Your Puppy
Housebreaking is the most important element of training that every
new puppy needs. This is important for the owner as well as the pup. As
with all young ones, puppies too may not have adequate muscular control
when the urge arises. It is essential that you supervise your pup when
it comes to him relieving himself without making a mess all over the
house. There will be times when this will happen. However, on each
occasion you need to give the dog a stern warning with a NO as soon as
you see him in the process of relieving himself. Timing is important;
otherwise, the pup will not be able to understand why he is being
reprimanded. Many owners make the mistake of rubbing their pup’s snout
in the mess, which will only encourage them eat what they defecate.
 Positive Reinforcement Housebreaking entails spending a
great deal of time with your pup. Removing your pup to an appropriate
location when he needs to relieve himself is the best way to make him
understand where he needs to do his business. Praise him when he
relieves himself in the right location, which may be in the garden, a
specific area in your bathroom (if you live in an apartment) or when on
a walk. Positive reinforcement works best.
Designate a Relief Area The secret is to be firm right from
the beginning so that your pup inculcates good habits. This is best
achieved through a consistent, daily routine, which will ensure that
your pup will be housebroken as soon as possible. The best thing to do
is to designate an area for the pup to relieve himself. Take him to the
spot frequently and he will soon learn to associate the area as the
appropriate place to do his business. A pup usually needs to relieve
himself every one hour in the first month and every second hour in the
second month. Using a word such as ‘Potty’ every time you take him out
to the area will help. Don’t forget to shower some praise or reward him
every time he gets it right. He will soon learn that good behavior gets
him a reward or praise.
 Forming Good Food Habits In order to co-ordinate
housebreaking, you will need to set a specific food schedule. Taking him
out after a feed is essential since this is the time they need to
relieve themselves. Pups require to be fed about three times a day, so
you need to make sure they are taken out after each meal. This will get
them into the habit and well on course to becoming a well behaved puppy.
The sooner you set boundaries at an early age, your pup learn to
distinguish between good and bad behavior. After all, avoiding problems
is better than trying to find a solution later on.
Lay down the ground rules and make sure that what is considered taboo
should never be allowed even once. This would only send out mixed
signals to your pup. However, remember that it isn’t only about rules.
Your pup needs good food, exercise, tender care, and plenty of sleep.
This will bring a sense of security and allow your pup to lead well
balanced life.
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