Puppy Housebreaking Information

Puppies begin to learn where to urinate and defecate by following their mother's example, provided they were allowed to follow their mother outside. But even puppies born in puppy mills can be successfully housetrained. It is never too early or too late to housetrain a puppy or a dog. Make sure everyone in the household follows these rules.

Selection

Before the puppy comes home, select an area outside that will be the toilet area. Place the new puppy there even before bringing inside the home, if possible.

Time Frame

Puppies need to toilet after they eat, as soon as they wake up, after they have taken a car ride and after a few minutes of vigorous exercise. According to "ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs," a two-month-old puppy needs to toilet every two hours.

Signs

When a puppy needs to go outside, they tend to walk around in circles, sniffing and may scratch the floor. Take the puppy outside immediately when he exhibits these behaviors.

Cleaning

The puppy is sniffing for the scent of urine, which smells like ammonia, in order to choose where to toilet. Never clean up any accidents with ammonia-based cleaners, or the puppy might mistake it for urine. Use enzyme-based cleaners.

Misconception

Never rub a puppy's nose in its own waste. This does not teach the puppy anything and may make the puppy afraid of you.

References

• Rehabilitation of a Puppy Mill Dog
• When Should Puppy Training & Housebreaking Begin?
• ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs; Sheldon L. Gerstenfeld; 1999

Resources

• How to Clean Dog Urine
• Puppy House Training