Crate training (continued..)
When you take the puppy outside to relieve himself, take him to a pre-selected area and issue a command for that purpose, such as “business.” Wait a few minutes for him to eliminate. Do not play with him or take him for a walk; there are other times for these activities. If he eliminates, praise him immediately and reward him by letting him roam freely in the house for a while.
If your puppy does not eliminate the first time, do not punish him. Simply return him to his cage. Wait 15 or 20 minutes and try again. Eventually your puppy will learn what is expected of him.
If you consistently take him out through the same door, once he is trained he will go to the designated door to “ask to go outside.” Sniffing the floor, turning in circles and squatting indicate that he is about to eliminate - take him outdoors immediately.
Puppies who are calm and secure are easier to housebreak. Anxiety and fear can lead to bad behavior. This is why you should never shout at the new puppy, hit him or “rub his nose in it.” If you punish the puppy, housebreaking may take longer or not work.
A puppy will probably make some mistakes in the house. When you catch him having an accident, say “no” firmly and take him outside where he should have gone. After a mistake, if possible, wait until the puppy relieves himself before returning him to the house to reinforce the training procedure.
Do not scold the puppy after he has made the mistake and left the area. He will not associate your firm words with the mistake. Mop up the puddle with a rag, then use the rag as an housebreaking aid. Place the rag in the preselected
outside area to help the puppy learn that this is where he should eliminate.
Wash the soiled area with soap and water followed by a deodorizing solution or,
in the case of a carpet, use a carpet shampoo and deodorizer. If the area is not
deodorized, the puppy may return to the same area the next time he wants to
relieve himself. Many deodorizing solutions are available. Make certain the
label instructions indicate that the solution is safe to use on the surface or
carpet you are cleaning.
Even if housebreaking does not go smoothly at first, don’t weaken. Be
persistent, patient and lavish the puppy with praise when he eliminates
properly. Some people who have problems housebreaking puppies are not
consistent. They may decide the weather is too bad to take the puppy outside and
provide a paper for indoor elimination. This confuses the puppy. If the weather
is cold or if it is raining, the puppy will be in a hurry to relieve himself and
get inside. The puppy must learn that he has to go outside in all kinds of
weather. Dry the puppy after he has gone outside in the rain or snow. This can
also be a time to give him extra praise and affection for eliminating properly.
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