K9UC’s Guide: How to Potty Train Your Puppy in 4 Easy Steps
In this guide on how to potty train your puppy, we will examine tips and tricks that new puppy parents can implement for new puppy. We will outline the importance of creating a safe, comfortable and functional space for your newly adopted furry friend. We’ll also pinpoint distinct, proven practices that will help your puppy adapt to its new environment and implement a basic potty training routine, so your puppy can do its business without it disrupting or smelling up your lovely home.
So, you’ve just adopted a new cuddly canine companion– congratulations! It’s fluffy, full of energy, and everything you ever wanted since you were a little kid. You’ve brought the little rascal home with you and you couldn’t be happier. You finally have a furry friend, and your puppy finally has a permanent playmate!
You’ve done your best to make your home “puppy proof”, and you hope that the new addition to your household doesn’t cause too much ruckus.
But alas, the second your new recruit walks through the front door and is let off the leash, it runs right over to the living room and has an accident all over your newly cleaned rug!
Perhaps your house isn’t as puppy proof as you thought. You take a deep breath and grab some old towels from the cupboard, and by the time you return, you find the fur-ball back at the front door using your new shoes as a play toy!
Puppy Potty Training Tips to Get Your Puppy Off on the Right Paw
Any of this sound familiar? Well, we’re happy to say you’re certainly not alone! We’ve all experienced the new puppy chaos syndrome! It’s all part of the puppy loving process. While it can be a beautiful thing, it can also be messy.
Step #1: Establish a Strong Bond
The first and most important thing that you need to remember is that puppies aren’t perfect. They’re young and selfish, and when they enter into a new space for the first time (aka your home) they’re extremely vulnerable. House training could take anywhere from 4/6 months to a year depending on the age, size and breed of your puppy. Frequent short (10 to 15 minute) play sessions and walks will help them develop a bond with you. Your bond with your pet will be a critical factor in establishing a strong relationship which will enable you to instill good habits in your young pup.
Step #2: Establish a Safe Space with Clear Boundaries
Giving your fluffy friend a defined space or area will prevent your pup from getting distracted by the larger areas of your home, and will make it easier for the puppy to become more aware of its needs. Make sure the space is large enough that your puppy can be comfortable but not so large that it can wander.
Another effective method is crate training. According to PetMD, “dogs have a natural instinct to keep their dens clean, so a properly sized crate introduced gradually will create a home base for your puppy and keep him from having accidents when you can’t watch him.”
As your pup becomes more acquainted with the new space, you can gradually expand its spot. Ideally, the best place is one that has easy access to an outside area that can be designated as your puppy’s pottie place. It’s important for your pup to know what will be tolerated and what will not. Be sure to praise them with good behavior.
Step #3: Have a Consistent Schedule
Maintaining a steady consistent schedule when you begin training your puppy is key. Make sure you feed your furry friend at consistent times, and then take them outside so they can go about their business. An hour after eating, bring your puppy outside to its designated bathroom area. Give your pup a few minutes to complete their business and if they are successful, be sure to praise your pup enthusiastically. Give them a treat and play with them as a reward. Taking your pup to the same place to go to the bathroom will encourage it to go more regularly as they will recognize their own sent.
Tip #4: Small Short Bursts and Patience
Puppies have short attention spans. It’s reccommended that you have brief 10 minute training sessions and playing with them afterwards to reward them for their good behavior. You might also want to check K9U Puppy Free Play with a certified trainer to help your puppy start socializing with puppies and other people.
With consistency, patience and positive reinforcement, you’ll be able to create a system that works for both of you. With a little practice, you and your canine companion can both enjoy a happy, clean, mess free home.
K9U offers extremely valuable resources for new dog owners including Puppy Training classes, Puppy Obedience Training and more. Let us know how we can help you or if we can be of service
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