General Puppy Tips (Part Two)
Housebreaking Tips...Do Not Paper Train Your Puppy
It will confuse him or prolong the housebreaking period. Even the youngest pup can go out in all but zero weather for a short time to begin housebreaking.
Your pup won't ask to go out so take him out often. At the very least, take him out first thing in the morning, after each meal, after a nap or playtime and last thing at night. More frequent outside visits will help him to understand the system better. Taking him out every hour and a half is not too often.
You should put him on a leash when you go out with him. Plan to spend no more than 5 minutes outside and don't play with him. Puppies are easily distracted, so if they think they are going outside to play they won't bother going to the bathroom. Playing should be done indoors or in a completely separate area from his "bathroom" so he understands why he is going outdoors.
During housebreaking, always take him to his designated outdoor spot to relieve himself. Always use a key word such as "hurry up," to tell him what you expect and be sure to praise him when he goes! Inside, confine him to a small area at night or when you can't watch him.
A training crate may be a dog owner's best purchase, since dogs don't like to soil where they sleep and they try hard to keep their special dens clean. If you can't use a crate, confine him to a hall or bathroom with a baby gate to block him in. He'll be happiest if he can hear, smell, or see you. He shouldn't feel isolated or banished and he shouldn't be kept in the cellar or in the garage. For more information about crates, see All You Need to Know About Crates.
If you have any questions, please call the Shelter at 978-745-9888.
