Potty training your puppy
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Having a new puppy in the home is a wonderful experience, but it can also be a challenge. One of the most important aspects of raising a puppy is potty training. It is a process that requires time, patience and consistency. In this article, I will share with you my personal experience and my tips for making this process as smooth as possible.
Regular diet
One of the simplest things you can do to make potty training easier is to feed your puppy at regular times. This helps regulate their digestive system and predict when they will need to go outside. It is also important to feed them high quality food to ensure their health and well-being.
Environmental control
Puppies are not born knowing where they should and should not relieve themselves. It’s up to us as owners to show them. To do this, it is essential to control their environment. The goal is to teach your puppy that your home is theirs, too. Dogs instinctively don't like to relieve themselves where they live and sleep. However, it may take time for them to consider the entire house as their primary residence.
To start, limit your puppy's access to one room or small area. As he learns to be potty trained in this space, you can gradually give him access to other parts of the house, always under close supervision.
Using the leash
A great way to control your puppy's environment is to attach him to you with a leash. This prevents your puppy from wandering into another room unsupervised and allows you to better notice the signs that he needs to go outside.
Using the cage
The crate can be a valuable tool for potty training. It gives your puppy a comfortable place to rest, and because it's instinctive for dogs not to soil their living space, they're less likely to poop in the crate. However, it is important to note that the cage is not a quick fix. It should be used in moderation and should never be used as punishment.
Regular outings
It is essential to take your puppy out regularly so that he can do his business. In general, I recommend doing this about once an hour. Also make sure to take him out immediately after he wakes up or gets home. Stay outside with him for five to ten minutes, even if he doesn't do anything. The important thing is to give him the opportunity to relieve himself outside.
Rewards and encouragement
When your puppy poops outside, praise and reward him. This can be a treat, a caress or a moment of play. By positively associating going to the toilet outside, your puppy will be more inclined to repeat this behavior.
What to do in the event of an accident?
If your puppy has an accident indoors, don't punish him. This is as ineffective as punishing a baby for soiling their diaper. Instead, clean the place up and make an effort to be more vigilant and consistent next time. If you catch your puppy pottying inside, try to get him out quickly so he can finish outside.
Conclusion
Potty training is a process that takes time and patience. It's important to stay consistent and reward your puppy for positive behaviors. Remember that every puppy is unique and learns at its own pace. With love, patience and consistency, your new four-legged friend will be potty trained in no time.
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