Potty Training

Whether your new dog is 4 months or 4 years old, it is important to set him up for success in his new home. Even “perfect” dogs can have accidents when placed in a new environment. If you have a large house, keep doors shut and block off areas of the house where you and he spend less time.

Frequent trips outside will allow more chances for success. These trips need your supervision so you know if your dog has actually gone potty.

Take your young puppy outside after:

• Waking up
• Crate or pen confinementFeeding
• Drinking water
• Playing

Take your mature dog out after:

• Waking up
• Crate or pen confinement
• 6-8 hours since last potty trip, shorter if he has consumed a lot of water

If your dog does not have a recently emptied bladder and bowel then confinement within the house is a must. Keep your dog tethered, on a leash, in a pen or in a crate. Give your dog no house privileges until you know he has voided his bladder and bowel.

For best bowel control, place your dog on a feeding schedule. Substantial portions going in at one time mean more predictable bowel habits. If your vet or breeder recommends “free feeding” ask if you can place dog on four or five meals a day.

Exercise will almost guarantee to get things moving. Take your dog for a walk. Let him sniff around. Carry a poop bag.

Accidents do happen and punishment will cause your dog to fear you and slow down his learning process. Remember this phrase, “Always prevent, never punish” for guaranteed success.

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