It takes time and effort to house train but the benefits are long term and makes for a happier household. Rescue dogs adopted from shelters or from kennels are require a refresher course of starting from square one. The following recommendations are best adopted as soon as you can. The more a dog performs bad habits the harder it is to train good habits.
Dogs and dog people prefer to keep areas where they sleep, eat and play free of excrement. Minimize confinement to a crate but it may be necessary to teach your friend to “hold it.” The crate should be large enough to allow laying down but not large enough to have an unused corner.
House Training Tips
- Frequency and consistency is the key. Adult trained dogs should have a chance to relieve themselves at least 4 times a day and puppies even more. Minimum opportunities are before being left alone, first thing in morning, last thing at night and another opportunity in-between.
- Some dogs go immediately when getting outside and others need a bit of exercise or nosing around. Escort your friend to the same area and reward with a walk, playtime or treats when finished.
- Be on the lookout for signs your dog needs to go out and know where he is so you don’t miss an early sign. Take your dog out as soon as you notice circling, whining, sniffing for a place to go, pacing, leaving the room, or scratching at the door. Alternatively train to ask to go out, with a bell to ring. See the article, “How to Train Your Dog to Tell You It’s Time to Potty” on this site.
- Interrupt your dog when eliminating inside by startling with a loud clap. Gently take him out immediately. It’s not a good time to yell, scold or punish. A dog might get the idea to hide before releasing. Only reward when finished outside!
- In case of a mess, use and enzymatic cleanser or shampoo to minimize the odor. Urine contains ammonia and cleaning with ammonia may introduce scent marking.
- Restrict a dog’s access to a previously stained area by marking the area with double sticky tape, moving furniture, closing a door or baby gate, and in worst cases use an upside down vinyl carpet runner making the area unwelcoming. Keeping a closer watch for signs when your friend approaches or begins to sniff the area and take them outside.
- Try to deal with conflicts between family pets or people by reintroducing them. Reduce jealousy by rewarding both pets simultaneously. The new person can give treats, food, toys, a car ride or some other reward.
- Having a consistent feeding time and removing food can reduce upset stomach and over eating causing diarrhea.
See this site’s articles, “How to Identify House Training Issues” and “What not to do When House Training” and consult your veterinarian.