The Complete Pet Training Guide

Housetraining a new puppy can be a daunting task, but with time and patience, you'll have a well-trained pup in no time. Read on for some tips to help make the process a bit easier.

Establish a Routine 

If there's one thing puppies love, it's routine. Having a schedule helps keep them focused and lets them know exactly what is expected of them. Set designated times for meal times, playtimes, and, most importantly, potty breaks. Doing this will help your pup learn when it's appropriate to relieve themselves and when it isn't. Most puppies need to go outside at least once every couple of hours during the day, so plan accordingly. If you can't be home to do this, consider hiring a dog walker or having a neighbor check in on your pup.

Consistency is key when it comes to housetraining your pup. If you aren't consistent, your pup won't understand what is expected of them, and the process will take much longer. So make sure to use the same commands, such as "go potty" and "do your business," every time you take them outside. Also, use the same spot where you want them to go potty every time. This will help your pup learn where they're supposed to go quickly and easily.

Keep an eye out for potty signals, such as pacing, sniffing the floor, or circling. If you catch your pup in the act of pottying in an inappropriate place, say "No!" firmly, and take them outside immediately.

Praise Good Behavior 

When your pup does something right—like going potty in the right spot—you need to reward them with verbal praise or treats. This reinforces positive behavior and helps them understand that they did something good and will likely get rewarded for it next time too.

Rewards don't have to be physical, either. Verbal praise like "good doggy!" works just as well in many cases. You could even try using a clicker to mark the behavior when you see it. A clicker is a small device that produces a distinct sound when pressed. This can be helpful for younger puppies who may not yet understand the concept of verbal praise.

Housetraining your puppy may seem overwhelming, but with these simple tips and some patience and consistency on your part, you'll be able to housetrain your pup quickly and easily. Use these tips as guidelines but remember that each dog is different, so don't hesitate to try out different strategies until you find what works best for both of you. 

With some love and dedication from both of you, soon enough, your pup will be housetrained. Contact a local dog training service to learn more.