housebreak dog

Housebreaking a dog usually means getting the dog to use the bathroom in the right place and at the right time. This is certainly important. But housebreaking is a lot more than just potting training. It includes all his behavior in the house. This includes his understanding of where he can go and when.

One of the most unwelcome conducts of any dog is to urinate on the carpet.  (A more exhaustive list of dog behavior problems is available in Dog Training Secrets.) Of course, young pups don’t know any better. They do it whenever they need and wherever they are. That’s natural. Therefore, it is important to start training him as soon as you bring him home.

If you got your pup when he was eight weeks old, you got him at the ideal time. But remember, the dog usually can’t control the urinating muscles until he is about twelve weeks old. This underlines how important it is to take your dog outside often during the first days of ownership. Especially get him out a short time after a meal. Every hour would be good for the first few days at least. When he goes in the proper place, reward him with voice and treats.

When the pup goes in the right place (outside or in a designated box indoors), be sure to praise him profusely. You might even give him a favorite dog biscuit. This assures the pet that he is pleasing you. So, often opportunities and much praise will reinforce his acceptable behavior.

There may be places in the house you don’t want the dog to go. A black shedding dog may not be welcome on the white couch, for example! The untrained pup may not be welcome in the carpeted rooms. Your pet must understand these places are off limits.

Consistency and patience, say the best dog training ebooks, are the keys to such training. So your dog is found sleeping on your bed, a forbidden place. Scold him, speak to him clearly that this is not allowed, and pull him off immediately! You must do this consistently until he learns this is not allowed. Don’t make exceptions for this will only confuse him.

You may suspect the dog is violating the rule but only when you aren’t around. This is an indication he knows what is right. For example, one family made it clear their dog was never to get on the furniture. But when they came home, they found a warm spot on the softest chair. You could lock him out of the room, of course. You could also catch the dog doing this when he doesn’t think you’re around. A scolding along with a rap on the bottom with a newspaper may be necessary to tell him this conduct is not acceptable, ever!

Dogs generally like to please their masters. Therefore, when the dog follows the rules without being told, words of praise should be poured on. Let him know he has done very well to control his urge to do what feels good but is disobedient. If you give in, or give up, then remember the dog won and has really trained you.

Hope you enjoyed this article. Learn more tips and read reviews of top dog training books at http://www.dogtrainingbible.net.