Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting and rewarding experience. However, one of the first challenges you may face as a new puppy owner is housebreaking your furry friend. Housebreaking, often referred to as potty training, is an essential part of owning a dog. It not only keeps your living space clean and odor-free but also teaches your puppy good behavior and sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy habits.
In this article, we will provide you with valuable tips and strategies to help you successfully housebreak your new puppy. From creating a consistent routine to using positive reinforcement, these tips will guide you through the process of Puppy training with ease.
1. Start Early: The key to successful housebreaking is to start early. Puppies have limited control over their bladder and bowel movements, so it is important to begin the training process as soon as you bring your new puppy home. Typically, puppies can begin to learn the basics of housebreaking as early as 8-12 weeks old.
2. Establish a Routine: Consistency is key when it comes to housebreaking your puppy. Establishing a regular feeding schedule will help regulate your puppy’s bathroom habits. Take your puppy outside first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime. Puppies usually need to go potty within 15-30 minutes after eating or drinking.
3. Supervise Your Puppy: One of the best ways to prevent accidents in the house is to closely supervise your puppy. Keep an eye on your puppy at all times, especially during the early stages of housebreaking. If you can’t watch your puppy, consider using a crate or playpen to keep them confined in a safe space.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is an effective training method for teaching your puppy good behavior. When your puppy goes potty outside, praise them and offer a treat as a reward. This will help your puppy associate going potty outside with positive experiences and encourage them to repeat good behavior.
5. Set Up a Designated Potty Area: Designating a specific potty area outside will help your puppy understand where they are supposed to go potty. Take your puppy to the same spot each time and use a consistent phrase like “go potty” to help reinforce the behavior. This will help your puppy develop a routine and recognize the designated potty area.
6. Clean Up Accidents Properly: Accidents are bound to happen during the housebreaking process. It is important to clean up accidents promptly and properly to prevent your puppy from repeating the behavior. Use an enzymatic cleaner to thoroughly clean and remove any traces of urine or feces. This will help eliminate odors and discourage your puppy from going potty in the same spot again.
7. Be Patient and Consistent: Housebreaking takes time and patience. It is important to be consistent with your training efforts and remain positive throughout the process. Remember that accidents are a natural part of learning, and it is important to not scold or punish your puppy for mistakes. Instead, remain calm and redirect your puppy to the designated potty area.
8. Monitor Water Intake: Monitoring your puppy’s water intake can help prevent accidents and regulate their bathroom habits. Avoid giving your puppy large amounts of water right before bedtime or when you are unable to supervise them. Instead, offer small amounts of water throughout the day and take your puppy outside regularly to prevent accidents.
9. Keep a Potty Journal: Keeping track of your puppy’s bathroom habits can help you identify patterns and schedule potty breaks accordingly. Keep a potty journal to record when your puppy goes potty, both inside and outside. This will help you track your puppy’s progress and adjust your training routine as needed.
10. Consider Professional Training: If you are struggling with housebreaking your puppy or if you have limited time to dedicate to training, consider enrolling in a professional puppy training class. Professional trainers can provide personalized guidance and support to help you and your puppy succeed in the housebreaking process.
Want more information on potty training your puppy? Visit the Wiggle Butt Academy housetraining page. Feel free to download our house training checklist too!
Find out more at
Dog Training & Dog Behavior Consultant | Wiggle Butt Academy | Texas
https://www.wigglebuttacademy.com/
469-444-1474
2257 Ridgeview Dr Plano, Texas 75025
Wiggle Butt Academy offers dog training and behavior services by professional, certified dog trainers. We combine kindness and animal learning science to teach new skills and change unwanted behavior. We help with puppies and dogs of all ages and stages. We are Fear Free trainers who don’t use fear, force or pain to train your family pet.
Are you ready to unleash your pup’s wiggle butt? Join us at Wiggle Butt Academy, where we use positive reinforcement to teach dogs and their families how to live happy lives together.
