Getting a puppy is an exciting event, but one not so exciting part is house training the puppy. House training is something most pet owners want to achieve as soon as possible to avoid damage to their home and some very smelly messes, but it’s not always an easy task. If you’ve recently gotten a puppy or you’re thinking about getting a puppy, these house-training tips are for you!
The Basics
Before you can learn how to house train, you have to have a better understanding of it as a whole. Dogs can’t be house trained until they’re in tune with what their bladder and bowels feel like when they need to know so that they’re able to hold it. Typically, that’s around 12-16 weeks of age but every dog is different. You can expect 4-6 months of house training before your dog is fully house broken. Remember to be patient, have a positive attitude, and spend more time praising the good than punishing the bad while you house train your dog.
House Training Methods
There is no easy method of house training. It’s recommended that you take your dog outside first thing in the morning, last thing before bed, after naps, and after meals. Even if they don’t go, at least you’re making outdoors available to them just in case. The rest of the time during the day you’ll need to watch your dog and take them outside whenever it appears, they might need to go. Some people find it’s easier to keep their dog in a crate during this part of the training process.
Knowing When Your Dog Needs to Go
Signs that your dog might need to go include:
- Sniffing the ground
- Scratching at the door
- Barking
- Circling (typically around the door)
- Whining
Once you figure out what your dog uses as a sign that they need to go, you’ll be able to take them out each time you see that behavior. House training requires close attention and quick action because although young dogs may know how to tell you they need to go, they won’t be able to hold it in for very long before going into the house instead.
Don’t forget to praise your dog each time they go outside where they’re supposed to go. If you’re having an especially difficult time house training your dog you may find that indoor grass pads are able to help. Just be patient and remember that all of those trips running the dog outside will be worth it once they’re fully house trained! If you need assistance or further training tips, ask our experts at Canine College!
