Dog housebreaking is the most important behavior to train for most indoor dog owners. Problems are very common and can be a big source of stress to a dog owner. It may seem like you have tried everything, and still Fido is having "accidents". You may feel at a loss as to what to do next. Keep in mind that your dog has no idea why he is not to relieve himself inside. It is not a diabolical plot to overthrow the human race by canines -- your dog simply does not understand. From centuries of co-habitating with man, dogs have developed a natural desire to please us. If he understood what you wanted, he would do it.
1. Confine your dog to a crate or restrain him on a leash anytime you are unable to observe him. You can even tie one end of his leash to your belt while you are moving around the house. The idea is that you will witness the moment an accident occurs and be able to act immediately. This is very important as, otherwise, he will pee in other rooms when you do not see. The problem with this is two fold. First, he will have performed the unwanted behavior without correction AND will be leaving the scent in your house which will entice him to relieve himself in this same spot again in the future. If your puppy is less than 12 weeks old, you will probably need to take him out during the night to eliminate, as it is diffucult for very young pups to hold it for more than 4 - 5 hours. During the day, take him outside on hourly intervals , at first, and slowly increase to two hours. In addition, take him out right after a nap or right after any prolonged "play time". Never let your dog roam around the house unmonitored.
2. When taking your dog out on potty runs, take him to the same potty area every time. He will smell his scent from previous eliminations, which will trigger him to make this his potty area. Additionally, dogs learn the fastest when there is a routine. While your dog is in the act, praise him softly and profusely. Some dogs will be surprised and stop if you yell GOOOOD DOOOG!! You may also want to give him a treat immediately after he is finished to add to the reward. In time, you can slowly eliminate the rewards.
3. When your dog does relieve himself outside, let him run around the room for short periods (approx 15 - 30 minutes) when you come in. Don't give him the run of the whole house, but confine him to a room where you can play with him or at least keep a watchful eye. This serves as an additional reward, gives you a little break from the leash holding, and gives him an opportunity for exercise and exploration.
4. If you do catch your dog urinating in the house, gently interrupt him and take him outside immediately. Don't yell or punish him for urinating in the house. He will not be able to put together that he is in trouble for peeing in the house, he will simply think that he is not allowed to pee. Later, after you have taken him out, you will need to thoroughly clean the urine or feces area in order to remove all scent traces.
5. If you have a male that has not been neutered, give strong consideration to having him neutered. Males have a strong, natural desire to "mark" their territory. Neutering will eliminate the hormones that trigger the marking desire.
Use these 5 tips to cure the dog housebreaking problems you might be facing. The sooner you start, the easier it will be to change your dog's behavior. . . . . most importantly. . . . be consistent!!
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