Getting a new puppy is an exciting first step to a very happy life with man’s best friend. However, those first few weeks of dog ownership can be “ruff” as your dog gets acclimated with their new environment and you get used to a puppy’s needs and wants. As the pet waste management experts, DoodyCalls would like to share with you a few expert tips on how to house train your pup so that the transition can be a pleasant one for all parties involved.
The Humane Society has many excellent tips on how best to house break your dog. They state that it’s good to keep in mind that as a rule of thumb, “your puppy can control their bladder one hour for each month of age.” Due to this it’s important to get your dog outside frequently to eliminate. They recommend bringing your dog to the same spot each time, and that while inside you keep your dog confined to a small controlled space until they’re fully house trained. Allow only enough space for them to comfortably stand, lay and turn around.
Pet Web MD suggests that you stay as patient as possible, never punishing your dog for an accident. Instead, they recommend you interrupt your dog if you catch them in the act and quickly get them outside. Afterwards clean up the accident with enzymatic cleaner to avoid the urine smell which, if left on the floor, will encourage your puppy to return and urinate there again. Both Web MD and The Humane Society strongly encourage new dog owners to stay to a schedule that will work with your dog’s small bladder. If you won’t be home for long periods of time in the beginning, both recommend you line up alternative care to ensure your dog is taken out throughout the day, as necessary.
The path to completely house train your dog is often long and windy. These tips will help you ensure that by the end your dog is fully house broken and eliminating outside, where professionals like DoodyCalls can step in and help you provide a pet waste free environment.
- Establish a Routine – Determine how often a day your dog needs to go out (based on their age and size) then stick to those times. It’s also a good idea to keep them returning to the same spot outdoors.
- Offer Rewards – After your dog has relieved themselves outdoors in the chosen spot, be sure to let them know what a good job they did. A treat, walk or playtime are the perfect way to show them how happy you are.
- Supervise Your Puppy – Unless it’s play time, only allow your puppy a small place to roam. This will allow you easy access to watch for signs that they need to go out.
If you’re feeling frustrated, or if the above tips aren’t working out the way you would like, as always, we encourage you to reach out to your Veterinarian as they are the best professionals to turn to when it comes to your dog’s health and care.