Tips for housetraining your puppy
Housetraining your puppy is a relatively simple process and often the thing most new puppy owners are keen to get right as soon as possible. In essence you reward your dog for going to toilet outside and don’t make a fuss if they have the occasional mishap inside, simple yes but not always easy. The key is in keeping the puppy in one of three situations: either outside with you; inside where you are constantly watching them; or in a puppy proofed place, such as a crate. A crate is a great way of using the dog’s natural instincts to keep their ‘den’ clean and only eliminate once outside of this area.
Rather than leave to chance you getting the opportunity to reward your pup for emptying outside, structure your day so that you follow a pattern of popping to their toilet area. It does not always have to be complete guess work, as there are times when they are more likely to go, these include:
First thing in the morning
After being taken out of the crate
Moving towards an area they have been before
They refuse a treat or their favourite toy (they are distracted by the need to go)!
After mealtimes
After playing
After someone comes in the room (excitement)
Last thing at night
When they are sniffing and circling the floor
No doubt you will also develop what I like to call, the weeing sense, i.e. you get to know your pup’s actions and behaviour and can anticipate when they are about to go! You should also set your wee clock. Very young puppies tend to pee more than once an hour and those slightly older puppies (up to around 20 weeks), at least once every hour.
When they do pee where you want them to, make sure you are ready with the rewards, either a tasty treat, praise or some playtime.
It is important, no matter how frustrated you get, not to punish your pup for the occasional mishap. Their bladders are still weak and they simply haven’t been given the opportunity to go outside. If this does happen, just ignore it and clean the area thoroughly, getting rid of any odours (best to avoid ammonia-based cleaning products).
If your pup seems to be peeing more often than normal or you are having particular problems with housetraining, visit the vet to rule out any potential health problems.