Tips on house training your pup

Pup In-Home Training Methods: A Guide by Puppy to Dog School

Raising a puppy involves dedication and patience, particularly when it comes to house training. At Puppy to Dog School, based in Castle Hill and servicing all of Sydney, we champion positive reinforcement to build good habits and nurture a strong bond with your puppy.

Understanding the Training Timeline

‍Typically, a puppy takes about four to six months to be fully house trained, although some, especially slow learners, may require up to a year. Consistency is crucial in puppy training, and if you find yourself struggling, professional help from puppy training schools is advisable.

Factors Influencing Training Speed

‍The size of your pup significantly influences the pace of house training. Smaller breeds, with their tiny bladders and rapid metabolisms, often need more frequent trips outside. Additionally, your puppy’s previous living conditions might necessitate breaking old habits to instill new, desirable ones.

Overcoming Setbacks

‍Setbacks during training are common but manageable. Maintain a structured management program, which includes promptly taking your puppy outside when signs of need arise and rewarding them after they go. This consistent approach will eventually lead to success.

Optimal Timing for Training

‍Experts recommend starting house training when your puppy is between 12 and 16 weeks old, as they have better control over their bladder and bowel movements by this age. If you are uncertain about the training process, consider enrolling in a professional dog training service. Puppy to Dog School offers comprehensive sessions tailored to new puppy owners in Sydney.

Training Based on Canine Instincts

‍Puppies naturally seek absorbent surfaces for toileting, such as grass or carpets. They avoid toileting in areas where they eat and drink and tend to return to previously used spots for toileting. By understanding these instincts, you can tailor your approach to house training effectively.

Practical Training Tips

• After meals, take your puppy for short walks to encourage outdoor toileting. Reward them immediately if they toilet outside, reinforcing the behaviour.
• Restrict access within your home until they have mastered house training.
• Be observant for signs like sniffing or circling, and respond by taking them outside.
• Keep feeding and drinking areas inside the home to prevent toileting in those areas.
• In case of accidents, clean thoroughly with hot water or ammonia-free products to avoid leaving lingering scents that might encourage repeat incidents.

Important Note: Never punish your puppy by rubbing their nose in their waste or using harsh discipline for accidents indoors.

For further assistance with pup in-home training methods, feel free to contact us at Puppy to Dog School. We’re committed to helping you and your puppy succeed, providing services across Sydney from our base in Castle Hill.