How to Be Consistent Housebreaking Puppies

Puppies have a lot to learn in a short period of time: their name, sitting, staying, sleeping for longer periods of time and, what can be considered most important, housebreaking. To make the training as smooth as possible, you must be consistent in your actions and words when housebreaking your puppy.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Consider crate training your new puppy. Using the restroom where they sleep isn't ideal for puppies, so confine your puppy to a crate or kennel during the training stages to speed the process.

2. Determine who's going to be working with your puppy. Consistency during housebreaking includes having one designated person in charge of taking care of business.

3. Choose the location for housebreaking. Even if you have a big backyard available to use, place your puppy on a leash and take her to where she can use the restroom. This way, she also learns that it's time to use the restroom and not play.

4. Identify the signs that your puppy has to use the restroom. He may walk to and from the door, he may begin sniffing around or he may paw at you to get your attention. Be aware that young puppies need to use the restroom 15 to 20 minutes after eating, playing or waking from a nap.

5. Praise your puppy every time she goes to the restroom. As soon as your puppy does her business, reward her with a treat.

Tips & Warnings

• Use your puppy's age as guidance as to how much time she can remain in the crate at one time--1 month of age for 1 hour, 2 months of age for 2 hours, all the way up to 6 to 8 months of age. Note that 8 hours is the maximum any aged dog can remain confined for one period of time.
• Accidents are going to happen. When an accident does occur, you must catch your puppy in the act and firmly scold him with "bad, dog," "outside." Then take your dog outside.
• Be firm with your puppy, but not mean. Never strike your puppy.