Everybody is always excited when a new puppy comes home. Everybody wants to hold it, play with it, pet it and enjoy the new house member. But owning a pet like a puppy will have its set of responsibility. Dogs and most especially puppies need to know about certain house rules.
The first puppy training tip to take not of is consistency. Puppies need constant reinforcements when it comes to learning a new set of rules. The most effective way of training a pup to do what you want it to do is to constantly repeat the action. However, these actions need to be consistent. It needs to happen at a specific time for the young pup to remember and react accordingly. Being consistent also applies to potty training.
Puppies are constantly excited and happy. They constantly crave attention and everybody will want to return that affection. However, when it comes to potty training, you need to be firm. A dirty house can be a breeding ground for bacteria which can be harmful for your pet and your family.
The first thing to do is to set a designated area as your puppy's "bedroom". This is his den, his personal space or his comfort zone. Put a crate or bed in one corner along with some chew toys, balls, water bowl and food bowl. Paper the entire room or area. For the first couple of weeks, your pup will be defecating and urinating everywhere. But as time goes by, he will favor certain spots. As soon as he establishes his preferred area of doing business, remove some of the papers farthest from his pooping place. Do this gradually until eventually only a small section is papered. If the puppy misfires the target area add some sheets until he hits the designated area again. Move the paper a little each day until eventually you can move it outside the house.
Of course you can let your puppy out of his bedroom. However keep an eye on him. Puppies unlike adult dogs cannot hold their bladder and urges. Also keep an eye on patterns as puppies, like people, will prefer to relieve themselves during certain periods of time. This will help you establish a routine and anticipate when your pup will want to go again.
Lastly, remember that this potty training takes patience. Lot's of it! Puppies take as long as 6 months till they are fully potty trained. Puppies like to be praised so whenever they hit the spot or do something you like, then reward them with treats, belly rubs, a toy or special attention. Positive reinforcement is a very good training tool so remember to be consistent on this too. There is lots of free advice on how to toilet train dogs, however, remembering to be consistent and patient is always first and foremost.
