Dog Training Tips - House Training
A dog or puppy is either house-trained or not. If your dog
is sneaking off to another room and having an accident, you will have to take
some of his freedom away until you can solve the problem. The longer you allow
this type of behavior to exist, the harder it will be to modify. Unless you can
catch him, it really does not do any good to drag him off to the site of his
mishap and try and punish him. Keep him in sight if he is bold enough to try
something in front of you, say "No," get his attention and take him
outdoors quickly so he can finish eliminating in the appropriate area. Remember,
it is your house. He has to earn his freedom through good behavior and this is
your responsibility.
The first step in house-training is to decide whether your
pup will be trained to only eliminate outdoors.
If your dog will be trained to eliminate only outdoors, start by establishing an
elimination spot. In the morning, clip his leash to his collar and take the dog
outdoors to his spot for elimination. State commands like "go potty"
or "hurry up." After he does his duty, bring the dog inside for food
and water. About 15 to 20 minutes after the meal, take the dog outside again for
elimination. Take your dog to his "spot" at each elimination time.
Maintain a regular feeding, drinking, and elimination schedule.
One of the most commonly made errors in house-training is
rushing too quickly ahead of your dog. Too much freedom too quickly can cause
some confusion. If your dog experiences an accident or two, you will have to
back up and slow down. Marking should not be confused with house-training
problems because marking is deliberate. This behavior will arise in dogs who may
be trying to vie for the role of the leader in the household; marking is a way
of claiming territory. It is advised that if you should notice this behavior
indoors or out, you strengthen all obedience commands immediately. This will
remove all doubts as to who is in charge around the house.
Providing your dog or puppy with a crate that is way too large may allow him to
relieve himself in one end and sleep in the other. Placing food or water in his crate
will allow him to fill up his bladder and bowel and he will have no choice but
to relieve himself in his crate. Make sure you take your dog or puppy outdoors
to eliminate on a regular schedule and especially prior to being left for
prolonged periods of time.
If you have tried all the above and are still experiencing
what you believe to be "Territorial Marking," consult your
veterinarian. Your dog/puppy may have a bladder infection and it's always best
to be safe, not sorry. If your dog/puppy is not spayed or neutered you may want
to talk to your veterinarian about this procedure. It usually has a very
positive effect on this type of behavior problem.
Even well-trained dogs sometimes have accidents. Clean the
accident area with a pet odor neutralizer so your dog won't be tempted to repeat
his mistake. Here are some tips to help prevent accidents:
1. Do not make sudden changes in his diet.
2. Avoid giving your dog late night snacks.
3. Make sure that you spend enough time outdoors.
Note: You should not rely on the veterinary advice or
information provided on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any specific
situation. Always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning
the medical condition or treatment of your own pet or animal. The Puppy Place
disclaims all warranties and liability related to the veterinary advice and
information provided on this site. Full
disclaimer.
Reprinted with permission by the Ralston Purina Company
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