tips for training your large breed dog

How To Potty Train Your Puppy

29 June 2016 by Aiden Hill

If you've never had a puppy before, potty training your new furry baby may seem like a never-ending and difficult process. You may have just let your puppy out to go potty and then brought him inside only to step into a puddle on the floor. Once your puppy begins going potty inside your house, your puppy may think that is where he should be going, as he is smelling his own scent throughout the house. You need to get potty training under control before your new furry buddy ruins all of the floors in your home. See below for potty training tips for your new furry baby.

Start A Schedule

Begin by setting a schedule for your puppy. Let him out as soon as you wake in the morning, then feed him and give him water, then let him out again. Be sure to allow for playtime throughout the day and try to take him out every hour at first. Limit food and water to your puppy, as after he eats or drinks he will want to go potty. Give him food twice per day, and only give water to your puppy if you will be around to let him out. Doing the same schedule day after day will help to train your puppy's bowels.

Crate Train

Using a crate is a great way to potty train your puppy. When your puppy isn't outside or when you aren't home, your puppy should be in the crate. You should also use the crate at night as a place for your puppy to sleep until he is fully potty trained. The crate should be big enough so your puppy can stand up inside, but small enough that he only has enough room for himself inside. Look for a crate that you can adjust to allow for your puppy's growth. Your puppy will not potty where he sleeps, so it will help train him to hold it until he is let outside. Be sure when taking your puppy out of the crate that you direct him outside quickly to avoid any accidents. Your puppy's crate will become his bed and his safe place; it should never be a place that he relates to punishment. Keep the crate a positive place and give your puppy a small treat when he goes into the crate.

Use Positive Reinforcement

When your puppy goes potty outside, give him a small treat and praise for going outside. He will begin to understand that he should be going outside, not inside. When and if he has any accidents inside the house, be sure to sternly tell him "no" and then immediately take him outside (even if he doesn't have to go potty again take him outside after an accident).

It may take some time and it may be frustrating at times, but don't give up on your furry buddy - he's learning. For more ideas on how to potty train your dog, consult with someone from a company like The Balanced Dog.

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