Many people believe housetraining a puppy is the same routine with every dog, every time. This may not be the case! As with humans, all puppies learn in different ways. And there can be special circumstances for each breed. How do you train your 8 week old, 2lb Maltipoo puppy to go outside in the middle of January when he hates the cold? Or a Beagle puppy who acts like his diet is made of pure sugar?
Knowing your puppy’s behaviors, cues and body language are the first steps to training. If you notice your Beagle puppy sniffing around, spinning in circles or hiding behind furniture, he may be searching for a place to go to the bathroom Puppy obedience classes Houston. Immediately take him outside and repeat a key word such as “go potty” or “outside”. Stay with your puppy outside to ensure he does his duties and reward him with lots of praise or even treats. If your puppy does not go to the bathroom within 5 to 10 minutes, bring him back inside and take him out to try again in about 15 minutes. Repeat this until he goes.
That’s the basics – what about the harder issues such as your shivering Maltipoo puppy in a snow storm? FYI: cold wind and a few snowflakes translate to a snow storm for your mini munchkin.
Toy breeds usually have a larger wardrobe than we do but are these clothes practical? Be sure your tiny companion has clothes that fit him well and will keep him warm while he’s outside doing his business. Trying to get your puppy get dressed when he’s practically crossing his legs to “go potty” is a feat. Buy a few hoodies that are thick and warm but comfortable. Allow him to wear these around the house in the cold months. This way, he’ll always be ready for a quick jaunt to the grassy bathroom.
And the Beagle puppy with constant energy who flies around quick than Batman? This is a bit more difficult. With any new puppy, you want to be sure to keep an eye on them so they are not getting themselves in to trouble by chewing things or going to the bathroom in the house. Try keeping your puppy in a “safe” room with you such as one with no carpeting or little to get in to. If there is an accident here, it won’t be such as mess to clean up.
Staying in one room together allows you to keep a better eye on him and get to know his cues better as well. A little sniff and you know it’s time for the collar and leash and out you go. This will make housetraining go by in a flash.
With any puppy, it is important to remember that accidents will happen. It’s all part of the learning process. Your Maltipoo will hate the cold and your Beagle puppy will escape your vision once or twice. But keep that determination and patience. And never punish your puppy for accidents after it has already happened. If you catch him in the act, make a loud noise such as a clap or a loud “no” and immediately take him outside. Once the duties are done outside, give lots and lots of praise! Pretty soon, your grass will be more fertilized than you could have ever asked for!