Housebreaking your dog.

Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, here are some housebreaking tips.

When your first take him home, keep a watchful eye on him while in your house. Let him walk around dragging the leash. If he starts to sniff, circle, squat, or lift his leg, say, "No" firmly, but not loudly or he will become fearful of you. Then, take him outside where you want him to go. Praise him when he goes. If you can't watch him, confine him either in a crate or the kitchen (read more about crate training below).

Put your dog on a schedule--usually feeding twice a day. Do not give him any food after 6:00pm. Any food after that may give him an unexpected urge to go after bedtime. Same thing with water. Don't let him drink past 8:00pm. Offer him water before you take him out in the morning. Always use the same door and take him to the same area to eliminate.

During the first few weeks, take him out on a regular schedule: after he wakes up in the morning or after a nap, after meals, when you return after having left him alone, before and after playing or training sessions, and right before you put him to bed. Always praise him for eliminating outside.

Never reprimand him for soiling the carpet when you're not there. He won't remember what he did and he will be confused.

Your dog wants very much to please you. It is with patience and kindness that you will get the point across. You will both reap the rewards. Enjoy your new pet!

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