How To Housebreak A Puppy

By Paul Schmitt

Who would of thought puppy training would be so taxing? It doesn't have to be difficult. With a few minor changes, you can easily learn how to housebreak a puppy.

Puppy training begins with housebreaking. Purchase a crate that is the right size for your puppy. Don't fall for "bigger is better" because it isn't. The crate must be suited for the breed of your dog.

      - Use a dog crate that allows enough room for a mature breed.

      - Purchase wetting pads to line half of the cage.

      - Place the crate where the puppy can easily access it.

      - Leave the door open during the day so the puppy can go in and out of it.

      - Spend a little extra money to get a good quality crate.

Use the crate when you leave the home. Place your new puppy inside with a bowl of water and chew toy. The puppy will no eliminate where he sleeps. Make sure you put the wetting pad to one side of the crate. If your pup was purchased from a Pet Store, he may already be crate trained.

The minute you arrive home, take the puppy outside. Praise him when he eliminates and reward him with a treat for being a good pup. This will reinforce good behavior. Spend some time playing with him as well.

The crate should also be used at night. He will whine for the first few nights, but that is normal. Don't go to him or you will destroy your efforts in crate training him.

Housetraining your puppy will work best if you reinforce good behavior. Breeders and veterinarians will continuously tell dog owners that the only way to break bad habits is education and consistency. Always remember that you're the one in charge and many of the mistakes are yours and not the puppy. Be patient and take your time and you'll be rewarded.

More dog training articles are at www.HowToObedienceTrainDog.com.