@rockyriverretrievers on Instagram

        When a dog comes into your life, the first thought you may have is how to house train it. As the dog will be in the house for a long time and ready for all kinds of situations, you must be prepared beforehand. A dog that isn’t house trained will do their business anywhere, and they won’t know when it is time for a walk or a treat. To make the most out of your time, you need to exercise patience and consistency for the best results.

Commence with a schedule

     A dog can be a handful, but if they’re properly house trained, they can be a great source of fun, friendship and you can form an unforgettable bond. Take your dog outside more often so they can relieve themselves but choose the same small spot each time so they can associate themselves with it. Always reward your dog with a treat or petting to help them know they did the right thing.

Choose a specific feeding time

     A puppy usually needs to be given food close to four times a day, and you must maintain that schedule regularly. If you take them for a walk consistently, they will know that business needs to be outside and not inside the house. When it’s time to sleep, take away their water dish around two hours before, so no mishaps occur during the night. Even if your dog wakes you, be patient and take them outside. As you house train your dog, you will see progress over time. 

Observe your dog

     A dog may soil itself at odd times, but you must try to keep an eye on them at all times so that there are no accidents. If your dog has done their business inside mistakenly, make them feel that what they did is wrong by slightly scolding them and taking them outside immediately to the same small spot you have designated beforehand. If you see your dog in the middle of the act, give an upset reaction and take them outside.

Precaution is necessary

     In the initial days, even when you’re in the yard, keep a leash on your dog to make it understand that the yard is like a room of the house that needs to be treated with the same respect. It’s not a place to go haywire, lose control and behave improperly. After some time has passed and your dog is somewhat house trained, let the leash take a break and trust your dog.

     When you house train your dog, there will be times when you feel frustrated, but you need to understand that the dog is as clueless as you are when it comes to being with a new member of the family. The dog is trying to adapt and switch to a life that they weren’t used to in the first place. With time though, they will adjust. 

Here’s an article from the AKC that may help.

Check out our pups!

Here’s a video that can help with house training: