House Training Your Dog
First off the pup must be watched at all times. The easiest way to do this is by limiting his free space. The
use of baby gates to keep him from straying help but are sometimes impractical or still give him too many
places to wonder off out of sight.
My favorite method is to tether the pup to me whenever he is in the house but not in his crate. I do this by
attaching a carabineer to the end of a five or six foot leash and attaching that to my pocket or belt loop.
(See picture above) This then, easily attaches to the dog’s collar.
The pup will always be insight no matter where you are and will begin following his leader around the
house. Note: Don’t jerk the pup around. Don’t make a big deal out of each and every time you head off in
a new direction either. Just take off easy so the pup has time to get up or take notice that you are on the
move.
Keep an eye out for any squatting or circling and startle the pup, if you must, to interrupt him and get him
outside immediately. Don't scold the pup. A sharp clap of the hands, a startling NO, or a tug on the leash
is the only correction necessary. And NEVER rub the pup's nose in the mess.
Taking the pup to the same spot every time can encourage your pup to potty.
Most dogs like to go back to the same spot or area because of their own familiar scent.
Give the pup plenty of time to potty. When he does, praise him for a job well done and take him back
inside. If he is more interested in playing, that's ok. Exercise will help stimulate his need to potty. Play ball
or run around the yard or go for a brisk walk. If he still won't go, take him back in and crate him. Watch
carefully though. You may find he needs to potty as soon as he relaxes for an instant. If needed, leave
the leash on and hold the door to his crate closed with your hand. As soon as he squats, grab the leash
and head back outside.
Clean any mistakes made in the house with enzyme cleaners such as Natures Miracle or Simple Solution.
These cleaners eliminate the odor so your pup’s magnificent sense of smell will not detect any familiar
potty spots. Remember, he is more likely to go in the same area so clean up is a must.
