How to Use Common Sense Solutions to House Train Your Puppy

Housebreaking requires commitment and vigilance on your part.

Caring for a new puppy calls for a lot of patience and a strong sense of commitment. One of the more challenging tasks you will face as a pet owner is teaching your pup to take her bathroom breaks outside --- and not on your brand new carpet. You must be consistent and vigilant throughout the training process. Following common sense measures will set Fido on track for housebreaking success.

Instructions

1. 

   Establish a daily routine for your puppy.

   Establish a regular schedule for your puppy. A routine will show him that there are specific times to eat, play and relieve himself. Let him outside at the same times daily. He will need to be put out first thing in the morning, after he's been sleeping for a couple of hours; if you work, try to come home during a lunch break at the same time every day to put him out. In general, a puppy can control his bladder for one hour for every month of age. If you must be away for a long stretch of time, turn to a neighbor or family member to help in keeping your dog to his routine.

2. 

   Take your puppy out at least every two hours to relieve herself.

   Take your puppy outside frequently. Your puppy will need to go to the bathroom after eating and drinking, just after waking up and after playing. Try to get your puppy outside at least every two hours for a potty break.

3. 

   Encourage your puppy to go to the bathroom in the same spot outside.

   Bring your puppy to the same bathroom spot outside each time. Walk her to the spot on a leash and encourage her to go, by using a phrase such as "go potty." Use the same phrase, while standing at the same spot, to remind your pup of what to do.

4. 

   Reward your pup with treats or praise for eliminating outdoors.

   Immediately reward your dog after he's finished eliminating outdoors. Praise him or give him a small treat. Make sure to offer the reward before you bring him back indoors, but after he's thoroughly finished with going to the bathroom. Praising too soon may be distracting. It is a good idea to keep a bag of small treats on hand at all times so you can be consistent in rewarding your pup.

5. 

   Keep your puppy confined to a small area while you are away.

   Confine your puppy when you are unable to watch her. Keep her in an area that is small enough so she won't want to eliminate there. There must be enough space for her to stand, lie down and turn around in. Block off an area --- preferably without carpeting --- using baby gates. Take your dog directly outside to her bathroom spot after several hours in confinement.

Tips & Warnings

• Put away your pup's water dish about two hours before bedtime so he has a better shot of lasting through the night without an accident

• Expect your puppy to have accidents in the house. This is a normal part of the learning process.

• It may take several weeks to housebreak your pup, and even longer for some smaller breeds

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References

• The Humane Society of the United States: Housetraining Puppies