What are some key tips for housebreaking a puppy?
The secret to housebreaking a puppy is to catch him in the act of doing things right and then praise him extravagantly. Pups generally want to please. To start, take your pup out often – first thing in the morning, after he eats a meal, after a play session, and every couple hours otherwise. Soon a routine will emerge. Be patient. Young pups don’t have the muscle control to hold things in, so it’s up to you to figure out the timing. To keep stress levels low, contain the pup in an easy cleanup zone until he begins to get the idea. Don’t reprimand him unless you catch him in the act of doing something wrong, and even then, make it nothing more than a firm “no.” In six to eight weeks, your pup will learn what you want, and be happy to oblige. – Dr.
