How to Give Positive Reinforcement Housebreaking a Puppy

The temptation to get a new puppy can be irresistible at times, especially when small children are begging for one. Many people who purchase on impulse do not fully appreciate the effort it takes to housebreak a puppy. Puppies are like small children; they will make lots of mistakes and they need lots of positive reinforcement when they do things well. Positive reinforcement is very effective in making your puppy housebreaking a success.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Put your puppy in front of the door that will be used primarily to let him out. Puppies and dogs love consistency. Start with a routine and do not deviate from it.

2. Open the door and use a command phrase that you will use every time, such as "Go Potty." If your puppy will not walk out, pick her up and carry her out. Place her on the ground and let her go on her own time. It will not be long. If you do not have a fenced in area, put your puppy on a leash every time you take her outside.

3. Cheer and make a big production when your puppy uses the bathroom outside. Your neighbors might look at you funny, but your puppy will instantly know you are pleased with him. Dogs instinctively want to please their masters and will repeatedly do what they have figured out pleases you.

4. Make a verbal correction when your puppy has an accident in the house. A simple stern "No" is enough. Immediately take your puppy to the door, give the command to use the bathroom and take her outside. Immediately cheer and praise your puppy for going potty outside.

5. Repeat this process each day until your puppy is consistently going to the indicated door to let you know he needs to be let out. The general rule of thumb is that a puppy can last only an hour for every month in age in between outings. This means that a 3-month old puppy will need to be let out at least every 3 hours.

Tips & Warnings

• You may use treats to complement your verbal praise. They should not be used every single time. You do not want your dog going out with the expectation of getting a treat, because once the treats stop, the indoor accidents will start. These treats should be small and soft and quickly and easily consumed.
• You should expect to get up often in the middle of the night to let your puppy out. If this is something that you simply cannot do, consider tethering a short leash to a wall where the puppy will be sleeping. This should allow very little room for your puppy to roam. Puppies will normally not use the bathroom where they are sleeping. Just be sure to take your puppy outside one last time before putting him down for the night.
• Do not let the outdoor training be a time for play. Play time and potty training should be kept separate. Your puppy needs to know that there is only one reason for going outside at this time, and he needs to associate his urge to use the bathroom with going outside.