Potty Training a Puppy – The Basics

Potty training a puppy can be quite challenging. The need for consistency is primary followed closely by patience, commitment and vigilance. It can be a tedious task, but sticking to the following steps could make your job a lot easier. Your puppy will learn a lot faster with a consistent schedule of basic procedures.

Puppies and babies do best on a schedule. This will teach them that there is a time to play, a time to eat and a time to potty. One usually follows the other. Puppies can control their bladder for short periods. The rule of thumb is one month, one hour, two months, two hours and so on. Potty breaks have to be carried out on a regular schedule. Consequently if you work outside the home it is advisable to hire someone to come in and give your baby his breaks. After eating or drinking, playing, and sleeping, your puppy should go out. At least every two hours is a must.

While potty training a puppy it is advisable to find an outside spot that you want your puppy to use regularly. Leash your puppy and walk him to a specified area to do his business. Once he completes his elimination, reward him. Rewards are important to make the experience one that he would like to do regularly.

Food and water should be given on schedule as well. If your buddy is on any pet meds, make sure to stick to the schedule and always get refills from certified suppliers, Petcarerx being a convenient solution to ordering supplies online. Make sure to feed your dog properly; most puppies will eat three or four times each day. The water dish should be picked up about two hours before bedtime. In the event that he wakes you up during the night, make it a simple excursion. No playing, no conversation and just enough lights to find your way. Once he does his business, take him back to his bed.

Preventing your puppy from having accidents in the house requires constant observation. It may be necessary to leash the puppy and take him with you when possible. At other times he can be tethered to a piece of furniture. Watch for signals that he may have to go potty. Such things as restlessness, sniffing or circling should prompt you to pick him up and get him outside. Don’t forget the leash and the reward. Rewards are very important.

Once your puppy has become more reliable with his elimination times, you may allow a little more freedom. He may be allowed to wander around for short periods learning what smells and tastes good and giving you a chuckle on a daily basis. Don’t jump to this step too quickly. If you don’t keep an eye on his activities, you may be spending a lot of time cleaning up the little messes that will appear.

Some puppies are quick to learn and can start showing signs that they are ready for some freedom quite easily. Others, especially small ones, may take a little longer and a lot more patience. Again, patience, vigilance and consistency are vitally important to potty train your puppy. You will both appreciate your efforts and have a friend offering unconditional love for a very long time.