Housebreaking Your Dog

 Dogs are creatures of habit; and once they develop a habit, breaking it can be a long, frustrating process. Your dog needs guidance and encouragement from you to develop a toilet habit you can live with. Animal behaviorists have learned a lot about dogs over the last couple of decades-including tidbits that will make housebreaking your pet a less frustrating task.

It might be difficult to believe (considering some of the things your dog will roll in or put in her mouth), but dogs have specific sanitary requirements. They will go to great lengths to avoid soiling near where they eat and/or sleep. That means any "accidents" an un-housebroken dog has will be far from its food dish and bed. To a dog, "far" in this case means about 6-10 feet. This leaves lots of "fair game" space in your home, unless you guide her to identify a suitable spot.

Whether your dog is a puppy or an adult dog, new to your home, the process is the same. Every few hours, as well as 30 minutes after she has eaten, take your dog outside to a designated "bathroom" spot. Stay in the vicinity, and praise her lavishly when she finishes relieving herself. If she fails to "go," take her back inside, and keep her confined and under careful watch for about 15 minutes, then take her back outside. During the interval, if you see her circling and sniffing intensely, take her outside immediately. Sniffing and circling are signs she is about to empty her bladder or bowels. By recognizing the signs and taking her outside, you are helping her connect the urge to go to the bathroom with going outside.

How quickly your dog becomes housebroken depends partly on her personality (is she eager to please or a rebel) but mostly on your diligence in taking her outside at the right time. If your puppy is less than four months old, you should plan on getting up during the night to take her outside. Puppies over four months of age can usually "hold it" through the night, but if your dog cries to be let out, it is best to get up and let her tend to her urge. It is vital that you give your dog every chance to succeed during this time. Positive reinforcement of the proper behavior is the fastest way to teach your dog anything.

Accidents happen, and when they do, your response will affect how quickly your dog learns to "go" outside. If you catch your dog in mid-squat, clap your hands or call her name loudly. Your goal is to distract her. Once you have her attention, quietly and calmly take her outside. Be sure to praise her when she finishes relieving herself. If you find a wet spot or droppings on the floor when your dog is not around, simply clean it up. If your dog approaches to investigate what you are doing, ignore her. Do not talk to her or pet her at this moment. Above all else, avoid yelling at her or physically punishing her. She will not connect your rage to the mess she made, but your violence will make her afraid of you-and that's not what you want from your canine companion.

About the Author

This article courtesy of http://www.dog-training-methods.com

 Tim Henry

More Articles 

Choosing a Bed for Your Dog - Charles Kassotis
Does your dog enjoy sleeping with you at night? Although cuddling with a pet can keep owner and dog warm and snuggly, keep in mind that most animals are not as clean as people, nor do they always follow the same sleep patterns. A dog can track mud,...

Key secrets to remember in Dog Training - Ray Coleiro
While training your dog please remember: ·Do not punish the dog. Punishment is not a training aid. It does little to foster willingness to learn and achieve. Limit yourself to a firm “NO” and to using your hands to block the dog’s negative...

Basic Dog Grooming Tips You Need To Know - Rose Lenk
Brush your dog often . Brushing will stimulate oils in your pets skin & keep it moist & healthy. Brushing will prevent matting of your dogs coat. Brushing is a great way to show your dog attention. Brushing eliminates dead hair in the coat that...

Benefits of Having a Dog - Steve Hall
Need A Little Help With Your Health? Get A Dog! Dogs are considered man's best friend. But did you know that having a dog gives you several heath benefits? In studies done by medical professionals, dog owners benefit from their pet's...

Dog Training Basics - Robert Kempe
All positive commands should be spoken sharply and distinctly during training. Make sure you also use a positive tone. Your dog will recognize your moods and associate them to their behavior by your tone of voice. The first word the puppy should...

Dog Breeding - Mark Woodcock
So you have a female pedigree dog with papers, you want to make some extra cash, so you think you'll go ahead and mate her with a stud so she'll breed and have some puppies. Not so easy! Proper breeding needs time, education, experience and of...

Small Dogs Require Extra Care During the Holiday Season - Hope Saidel
The Holiday season is a time of joy and celebration. To keep it that way for everyone, people with small dogs should take some common-sense precautions. Especially now, when tiny dogs are increasingly popular, families need to stay aware of...

Do You Want to Start Your Own Pet Sitting and/or Dog Walking Business? - Stacy Hansen
Are you thinking of starting your own pet sitting or dog walking business? Here is a great starting point: Step by step instructions to getting set up for success! Decide what sort of services you would like to offer. Many will start out...

English Bulldog Complete Profile - Dooziedog com
Key Facts: Size: Small - medium Height: About 38 cm (15 inches) Weight: 22.5 - 25 kg (50 - 55 lb) Life Span: 10 years Grooming: Simple Exercise: Medium Feeding: Medium Temperament: Determined & affectionate Country of Origin: Britain AKC Group:...

When Your Best Friend Gets Lost: Tips In Finding Your Dog - Jack Russell
"The dog is man's best friend," So, the saying goes. Dogs have proven to be loving and loyal companions of people. That is almost everyone owns at least a dog. From pitbulls to dachshunds to terriers, dogs are a part of the daily human lives....

Naming Your Purebred Dog - Blake Kritzberg
Unlike some aspects of dog ownership, naming your dog is just plain fun! The pets themselves don't require much; they just need a pleasing dog name they can identify with when you give them commands. But if you plan to show a purebred dog in...

Leash Training for Dogs - William Berg
Tired of your dog dragging you out the door and down the street? Are YOU the one that needs a nap after taking the dog for a walk? Maybe it's time to leash train the dog. A little time and a bit more patience can provide a lifelong reward -...