House training a puppy

House Training Your Puppy: A Guide for Success

We've received many questions about house training, so it's time to add this important information to our website. Before you begin, remember: if a puppy cannot be house trained, it’s not the puppy's fault—it’s due to the owner’s lack of consistency and structure. With the right approach, house training can be smooth and successful.

Successful house training requires constant supervision during your puppy’s playtime. Here are a few techniques that can make the process easier:

• Leash Training Indoors: Keep your puppy on a leash inside the house, and always in the same room as you. This way, if your puppy starts to potty, you can make a gentle correction without chasing him. Simply pick him up and take him to the designated potty area outside.
  Tip: Always reward your puppy after he goes potty outside!
• Supervision or Confinement: If you can't give your puppy your full attention, use a crate or a confined area. Puppies can relieve themselves in seconds, so close supervision during active times will minimize accidents.

Puppies usually need to relieve themselves:

• After sleeping
• After eating
• After physical activity
• Before bedtime

Remember, puppies have immature bladders and cannot hold it for long. With age, they’ll gain more control, but while they’re young, treat them like you would a human baby—frequent potty breaks are essential!

While your puppy is playing, watch for signs such as sniffing the ground, circling, or squatting. These signals mean it’s time to go outside immediately. If your puppy starts to relieve himself before you can get him outside, calmly say something like "go outside," pick him up, and take him out.

Do NOT rub his nose in it—your puppy will not understand this tactic. If you didn't witness the accident, do not punish him afterward. The puppy won’t associate your reaction with what he did earlier. Instead, this is a signal to you that more supervision is needed.

Consistency is key in house training. Take your puppy to the same outdoor spot every time. The familiar scent will help establish a routine, and over time, your puppy will automatically go to that spot. After your puppy does his business, praise him with positive words and pats. Puppies love to please and will repeat behaviors that earn them rewards.

Puppies naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, but if crated for too long, they may have no choice. As a responsible owner, it’s crucial to provide regular access to the outdoors. Don’t expect your puppy to hold his bladder all day—remember, you wouldn't want to either! Give them frequent breaks to ensure success.

A feeding schedule is essential for house training success. Feed your puppy on a regular schedule so you’ll know when he’s likely to need to go outside. Most puppies need to go outside within minutes of eating.
Important: Never restrict or take away water. Limiting water will only make your puppy drink more when it's available and result in more frequent urination.

A well-house-trained puppy comes from consistent supervision, prevention, and reward from a diligent owner. With patience and structure, house training can be a smooth, easy process. Just remember: consistency is key!