House Training
To expedite and simplify the housetraining process for your dog, remember two key principles: Principle #1: Reward your dog each time she eliminates in the designated area, and Principle #2: Take steps to prevent her from having accidents.
Housetraining Principles
Rewarding Elimination
Reward your dog every time she eliminates in the right place.
Preventing Mistakes
Prevent your dog from making mistakes by following a routine and supervising her.
The Basics
Outdoor Schedule
Take your dog outdoors on a schedule, depending on her age and needs.
Elimination Spot
Always take your dog to the same spot to eliminate to establish a visual and olfactory cue.
Exit Door
Use the same door to take your dog out to help her signal when she needs to go out.
Principle #1: Rewarding Elimination
Immediate Praise
Praise your dog as she finishes eliminating and give her a special food treat.
Consistent Reward
Reward her with a walk or play session after she eliminates to reinforce the behavior.
Principle #2: Preventing Mistakes
Frequent Outings
Take your dog out frequently, on a regular schedule, and supervise her when indoors.
Confinement
Use a crate or a designated area when you can't supervise your dog to prevent accidents.
Use of a Crate for Housetraining
Acclimate Your Dog
Confinement Usage
Use the crate for short periods when you're away and unable to supervise your dog.
Alternative Confinement
If your dog eliminates in the crate, consider using an exercise pen or a baby gate to confine her.
To Paper Train or Not to Paper Train
Transitioning Surfaces
Use newspapers or wee-wee pads initially and transition to outdoor elimination gradually.
Litter Box Training
Small dogs can be trained to use a litter box, transitioning from papers to litter over time.
Teaching Your Dog to Eliminate on Cue
Establish a Routine
Take your dog out on a schedule and wait for her to eliminate.
Cueing Elimination
Use a verbal cue ("Go pee") as she starts to eliminate and reward her when she finishes.
Reinforcing the Cue
Continue using the cue consistently until your dog associates it with the desired behavior.
Remember, consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful housetraining. Avoid punishment and be patient with your dog as she learns.