Having a new puppy in the house can be fun and rewarding, but it is also a huge responsibility. One of the first things you'll want to accomplish is the task of housebreaking your new dog, and depending on whom you ask there are many ways to accomplish this. Here we will outline a program for potty training that is recommended by veterinarians and trainers alike-a program which will quickly teach your new dog that the place to do his business is outside.

The proper age to begin housebreaking your puppy is when he/she is about 8 weeks old-an age when your pup can begin to understand your commands and preferences. The process should begin by taking your puppy outside frequently, up to 8 times a day, and should be repeated until the behavior is learned. Be sure to take the puppy outside after he awakes, after play sessions, and about 10-15 minutes after each meal, and take him to the same spot outside each time to avoid any confusion about your preferences.

After you have taken your puppy outside, wait some time until he decides to relieve himself and then shower him with rewards or praise. If you do this immediately, eventually your puppy will begin to associate the reward with the behavior and he/she will want to repeat the behavior time and again. As the handler, it is your responsibility to ensure that the dog is praised or given a treat each and every time he repeats the behavior. This is the quickest way to reinforce good habits.

Unlike older dogs who can wait considerably longer between elimination sessions, a new puppy will need to urinate up to 6 times a day and should be watched carefully while indoors. This means that the puppy should be restricted to a single room where you can keep an eye on him, and when this is not practical the puppy should be kept in a crate or carrier of some kind. If an accident does occur while the puppy is inside, immediately scold him and take him outside to the designated spot.

It would be great if puppies were born knowing that they need to "do their business" outside and only in a certain area, but unfortunately this is a learned skill only. Follow the steps outlined above and in no time at all you can housebreak your puppy permanently and can get to the fun stuff associated with owning a new dog.

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Written by Mark Walters using tags: , , , , ,