New dog owners often find that they have much more difficulty house training a dog than they first think they will when they first get a puppy. Dogs are, above all else, animals. If they are going to learn to be house trained, then their owners will have to firm and consistent with both their dog’s schedule and their rewards.
House training a dog is much more about having a routine and training the owner than teaching the dog anything. It is important that the dog is taken outside several times a day. Early in the morning and right before bed are both good places to start. Other times to take your dog outside include after meals and after playtime.
At least at first, you’ll want to stay outside and make sure that the dog does go. Praise them for this, making sure you use whatever phrase you want the dog to associate with the act of elimination.
Dogs do not like to eliminate where they eat or sleep. This fact can be taken advantage of if the owner places a small bowl of food in any area of the house where the dog has had an accident in the past. Since dogs tend to go back to to the same spots, this will make the dog think twice the next time they sniff in that area.
Also, limiting the area where the dog is allowed to live and play can keep him from making messes. Blocking off the second floor or a hallway leading to rooms the dog doesn’t often go to might help eliminate accidents. Areas that your dog doesn’t visit often might be considered almost the same as outside, so take away the temptation to ‘mark’ that particular territory.
Remember that the most important part of house training a dog is remaining consistent. Maintain your authority and ensure that you make it clear what you expect, and your dog should learn eventually.
Taylor also writes on articles on dog bed selection such as kuranda dog beds.
