How to House Train a New or Adult Dog

Not always cute!

Whether bringing a new adult dog home from the shelter, or having an adult dog that was never properly house trained, be assured that "old dogs can learn new tricks." With a lot of patience and learning a few tricks, your dog can be house trained at any age.

Things You'll Need

• Dog Treats

Instructions

1. When bringing a new dog home from the shelter, never bring the dog directly into the house. The dog needs to first get a sense of the yard, street, and/or neighborhood before stepping foot into your house. Let the dog sniff the yard, show him the area where you expect him to eliminate. Let him take his time. If he eliminates while you are there, give him lots of praise with or without a very small treat. When you first bring him into the house, try to let him sniff around without too much excitement from children or other family members. Remember, this is a frightening and confusing time for the newest member of your family. If the dog gets too stressed or scared, he may eliminate in the house.

2. If the adult dog is new to your family, don't be surprised if he gets diarrhea within the first couple of days. The new food, new water, and stress on the dog can all lead to this condition. If at all possible, feed the dog the food he is used to. Another good trick is to bring an empty container with you when you pick up the dog and fill it with the water the dog is used to. When you get home, fill the bowl with this water and gradually replace the water with your tap water.

3. 

   Whether your dog is new to your home or just not properly trained, start by taking the dog out to where you would like him to eliminate every hour or so. If he eliminates while outside, use lots of praise and a small treat. This is tiring and requires a lot of time and patience but will be worthwhile in the end. As your dog catches on, you will be able to extend the amount of time in between trips outside to 1 ½ to 2 hours and then even longer, depending on the breed and size of your dog. Remember that most dogs need to eliminate soon after eating or vigorous play.

4. The best way to avoid accidents while you are away from home, until he is properly trained, is to put him in a crate. Make sure the crate is large enough for the dog to stand up and turn around and has comfy blankets, a toy or two, and something to chew on. Don't leave him in the crate for too long at a time. A few hours is fine. If you must be away longer (if you work, for example) get a friend or hire a pet sitter to give your dog the potty and exercise breaks he needs during the day. Dogs are den animals and often feel secure in their crate.

5. When your dog has an accident, do not punish him. Punishment will only confuse and frighten the dog. Clean the accident quickly but without a lot of fuss. Make sure to use a water and vinegar solution or a commercial urine eliminator spray or the offender may think this is his new elimination spot!