Puppyhood is the “formative” period for your dog. The things your puppy learns during this period will most likely stick with him the rest of his life. One of the most imperative things to get started is to train dogs to potty outside.
Probably the most helpful tip to ease both your pup’s stress and your own is to develop a routine as soon as your puppy begins living with you. You can begin by accustoming your puppy to sleep/eat/potty routine. Try feeding your puppy around the same time every day, making for frequent trips outside afterward. He will soon adjust his body to the routine.
A good way to save your sanity is to admit right off the bat that your puppy will have accidents, and the sooner you understand this, the easier your dog potty training will be. You can help ease accidents by keeping some newspaper in a constant spot so that your pup can at least familiarize himself with an acceptable alternative when he is unable to go outside. This works particularly well if you don’t have a “doggy door” and your dog has to depend upon you to take him outside.
The sooner you get to know your puppy’s “eat/potty” routine, the easier potty-training will become. A good rule to go by is to estimate that your pup will be ready for a trip outside around 15 - 20 minutes after he has been fed/watered. If you can, try to have your puppy outside at this time so he will familiarize himself with the proper “potty surroundings”.
Be sure that you separate “potty time” from “play time.” Puppies love to explore–it’s natural and should be encouraged, but only when it’s the appropriate time. It can be extremely stressful to wait outside while your puppy plays, only to have an accident as soon as you bring him inside.
Puppyhood is a great time to begin using the praise and discipline techniques you intend to use throughout your dog’s life. Many people prefer the terms “good boy/girl” and “no,” both of which can be still be used when your dog is an adult. Although puppies need a lot of repetition, routine, and firmness, remember that your puppy will soon grow up, so enjoy his young, eager activity while you can!
Get more great tips like this at HelpYourPets.com - Puppy Steps and while you are training your puppy learn how to protect him from injury also.
Mail this post
Recent Comments