Housetraining
Your Puppy
By Theresa, a Member of The Parent Station
Step 1 - Get a Crate!!!
Dogs are den animals and prefer to have a bed of their own. They will
not mess in their bed if it is of a correct size. Buy one that, as an
adult, the dog will be able to stand up, turn around and lay down in.
Your pup will be able to "hold" it for only 2-3 hours at first. This
length of time increases approximately one hour per month of age.
Step 2- Keep your eye on the puppy!
When your puppy is not in his crate you *must* be able to see him at
all times. I suggest having a (cheap) 8-10' leash on the pup at all
times. It's acceptable if if he "chews" on it, but you don't
want him "eating" it. If you cannot watch your pup he should be in his
crate to prevent trouble.
Step 3 - Take your puppy outside on a leash.
When you take your pup out on a leash, make sure you always go through
the same door. Always go to the same spot and tell him to "potty." Repeat
this step, without playing, until the pup begins to "go." Begin saying
"good potty" as he relieves himself and then immediately after
he finishes, heavily praise him. Do a dance, scream for joy,
yell in excitement, and give a few treats (no larger than his kibble).
This is the best thing your pup will ever do for you, so let
him know it!
Step 4 - DO NOT punish an accident!
If your pup has an accident in the house there are 2 reasons for this;
1) he doesn't know how to "ask" or 2) you weren't watching him closely
enough. If you catch the puppy in the act, quickly clap your
hands, yell "stop" and take him outside (this is where already having
a leash on comes in very handy).
Step 5 - Keep to your puppy's schedule.
Remember your pup will have to go out at the following times - When
he comes out of his crate, after eating, after waking, and after playing
(many people forget this last one). Always take your pup out before
he is put back into his crate.