At this time of year many people have welcomed new four-legged furry additions to their family and have some time to spend to settle them in. What an exciting time getting to know each other this is, but there may be some things that annoy you. Like that puddle you find as you walk through the kitchen. Here is the top thing you want to teach puppy when it first comes home.
Potty training
Potty training your new puppy is not hard. Consistency is the key! Teaching puppy the rules consistently will see results in super quick time. Every time puppy wakes up, finishes playing or eating, and before settling in for the night, take it outside to its very special spot and encourage it to go potty. Puppies are smart and soon catch on as long as you do not confuse them with mixed messages.
Have a feeding schedule – three times a day for young puppies, reducing to twice a day as they get older. And, take any leftover food away between meals so you control the food intake. Here are a couple of things to help teach puppy house manners:
- Always take puppy outside first thing in the morning and last thing at night, and always after playing and at least hourly in between meals.
- Take puppy to its own special spot each time and encourage it to do its business by telling it to ‘go potty’ or use words that work for you.
- Stay with puppy as it learns what you expect and give lavish praise when puppy finishes. Also reward with a treat when you first start so puppy learns that going potty is fun and rewarding. Other rewards can be a game with you.
- Have patience.
Teaching potty training right from the start is extremely important and sets them up correctly for the rest of their lives.
Finally, have fun with your new friend!
