Housetraining your puppy – mission impossible?

[4 May 2010 - 14h37]

During the first few weeks of life puppies learn from their mother not to relieve themselves in their basket. Although this is a good start, it’s obviously not enough. The animal’s owner also needs to teach their pet about the kind of cleanliness humans expect of them.

Doing their business outside is not an obvious thing for a dog. By the age of two months, puppies begin to control their natural functions and are able to “hold on”. That’s when training can begin. But if house training becomes a battleground, you’re probably the one to blame…

So what about litter trays? A tempting option for owners but certainly not one to be recommended. Of course, it may give you peace of mind … momentarily … but in the long run it will take twice the time (or even longer) to train your dog to do his business outside! And don’t start putting down newspaper or floor cloths where your pet is allowed to “go”, or put him in the shower if he’s obviously in a hurry.

So when should you start taking your dog outside? During the first few weeks take him outside every 3 or 4 hours maximum, whenever possible – in the morning when he wakes up and then after each meal. To begin with, always take him to the same spot to instil a sense of habit and help him understand what you expect him to do. Once he ‘goes’, make a fuss of him! Lots of patting or a treat will help to drive the message home.

What if he forgets and ‘goes’ indoors? If you catch him in the act, show him that it’s “bad”. A firm “no” is enough. There’s no point in getting angry, you could traumatise the poor creature as he doesn’t really understand. As the saying goes, slow and steady wins the race … far more successfully than force and anger. As for the idea of cleaning up with bleach … it’s complete nonsense. The smell doesn’t put puppies off at all – they actually love it.

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