There is no method of doing or teaching anything that works everytime with every dog and owner. Like child rearing, methods of training dogs has changed with time. We have to remember that every puppy is an individual with unique needs and abilities and must be treated as such. At the same time the owner has schedules and lifestyle demands that need to be figured into the equation when creating the best way to housebreak his new little buddy.
Gone are the days of rubbing puppy noses in feces or urine, smacking them with a newspaper, and tossing them outside. Positive reinforcement, praise, and a stern but not frightening tone of disapproval have taken over. The puppy wants to please his person more than anything, and he is crushed when he knows that he has displeased his human.
Like human babies, puppies need to eliminate IMMEDIATELY when they wake up...not after you've had your coffee and done your thing, or watched the last fifteen minutes of a great movie on TV. If you wait, you lose. Grab that little creature and head for the spot you have chosen. Give your performance command. Many people say "go potty" or "tinkle." How boring!!! Pick something unique. How about ABRACADABRA! LEMONADE! or even SHIH TZU! When your charge is done performing praise him like he has gotten straight A+ grades on his report card. Kiss him and hug him and bring him inside...he has done what he went out to do.
About 20 or 30 minutes after eating and drinking is another good time to head to the chosen land with your buddy. Nine or ten week old puppies don't have a very big holding tank, and what goes in must come out.
Most puppies will circle or walk with their noses to the ground looking for a spot to eliminate. You will soon learn the difference in gait and mannerisms and learn to get the baby out.
If you are going to be away from home for extended periods you should provide an indoor relief station. Some people expect their dogs to go 8 to 10 hours without relieving themselves...and I guess some dogs do eventually. When you think about it, how often do you or any of your contemporaries go all day without at least one bathroom break! Lets be fair.
At the same time your canine friend does not need to lounge in the lazy boy, chewing on the remote, in front of the tv. It is our duty to protect our dogs and make them comfy. They should be in a safe place off the carpetting away from electrical cords and small objects that they can swallow. My sister keeps her two Shih Tzu in a spare bedroom with all their toys, assorted dog beds, food and water, and their own stereo. Maybe a little excessive, but they are safe, comfortable, and secure. The same kind of spot could be created in
a back entry or cellar.
Positive reinforcement, lots of praise, and respect for your dogs needs and abilities will get you where you want to go. Digest the above info and adapt it to your needs. ABRACADABRA, PLEASE & THANK YOU!
