Everyone who has ever had a dog thinks they have the best tips for potty training a puppy. If you have recently acquired a pup, you have undoubtedly heard many of them. While many of these tips for potty training a puppy may actually be quite effective, some may not work well at all. It is important to separate the facts from the fiction when it comes to housebreaking, so that you can find the best way to teach your little pup the facts and build a positive relationship with him at the same time.
Crate Training and Praise
The first tip for potty training a puppy that has been tried and true is to use a crate. This will give your pup a secure place to sleep, a safe place when you cannot watch him, and will be the best method to teach your dog bladder and fecal control. Most dogs will not go to the bathroom in the same place that they sleep, so your pup will learn to hold his urge until you take him outdoors to the appropriate location. This leads us to the next good tip for potty training a puppy: take him to the same outdoor spot every time. This will show your dog in no uncertain terms where the potty location is.
Another good tip for potty training a puppy is to praise your dog whenever he goes in the appropriate location. A simple “good dog,” in this situation is sufficient, but make sure to offer it every single time your pup does what he is supposed to do. To increase the frequency of the praise, make sure that you take your pup out consistently after meals, naps and playtime. He should also be taken out before and after he spends time in his crate. Keep in mind that some young puppies may need to eliminate every hour, so don’t be afraid that you are taking your pup outdoors to often. This is the best way to housebreak him.
A Watchful Eye without Punishment
Yet another good potty training tip for your puppy is to keep your dog close to you when he is indoors and not confined to his crate. The importance of this puppy potty training tip is that you will see right away when he is showing signs that he needs to go to the bathroom. This allows you to take him outdoors immediately to do his business, and gives you yet another opportunity to praise him for his obedience. The more praise that you can provide, the more likely your puppy will catch onto the process quickly.
A final tip in potty training your puppy is to avoid punishment. Keep in mind that if your pup eliminates in the house, it is really your fault for not watching him closely enough during the training process. Your puppy is not having accidents to be disobedient. He is simply trying to learn a new skill through plenty of trial and error. It is up to you, and your patience and consistency, to lead your puppy down the right path.