Advice for house training your dog.
- Establish a routine: Dogs do well with a predictable schedule, so take your dog outside at the same times every day, like after meals and first thing in the morning.
- Watch for signs your dog needs out : sniffing the floor/walls, panting, circling or squatting.
- Take frequent breaks: In addition to your routine trips outside, give your dog lots of opportunities to go to the bathroom.
- Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog with praise and treats when they do the toilet outside.
- Keep your dog in sight: While inside, keep your dog within sight.
- Create a restricted area: When your dog is unsupervised, use a baby gate or other barrier to limit their access to the rest of the house.
- Clean up accidents properly: Use an enzymatic cleaner to remove any scent and prevent your dog from going in the same spot again.
- Use cues: Pair a word with the act of going to the toilet so that the word can prompt your dog to eliminate.
- Lack of progress: It can take time for a dog to learn so be patient and persistent.
- Medical issues: if this lack of progress continues, if the dog is having trouble going or is going to much then it may be that the type/brand of food is an issue or there is a medica condition (for which you should seek veterinary assistance).
- Do not punish your dog: correcting your dog after an accident can make them confused, fearful or neurotic.
