Consistency is key
Dogs thrive with consistent rules, guidelines, and structure. Inconsistencies can cause failure. Imagine receiving new instructions or inconsistent reprimands at work. This is your job as the owner, sticking to the right behaviors can make a massive difference to the outcomes.
Puppy potty training – Choose a spot
When it comes to housetraining your puppy, it’s important to understand that they can become very particular about where they “do their business”. Every time your puppy has an accident inside, they are building a strong preference for that specific area. That’s why preventing accidents and thoroughly cleaning up any messes are crucial.
Puppy potty training – Stay vigilant
During the training process, you’ll need to keep a watchful eye on your puppy at all times, whether they’re in their crate, on a mat, or beside you on the couch. Some people even tether their puppies to their waists or nearby objects to ensure they stay in their eyesight.
When you notice your puppy sniffing or circling indoors, it’s essential to take them outside right away. If your puppy is having accidents in their crate, it may be too big for them. The crate should be the perfect size for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If accidents do occur, make sure to remove any soiled items and thoroughly clean the crate.
It’s also a good idea to keep your puppy confined to a specific area that’s easy to clean, like a section of the bathroom, pantry, or laundry room. However, you shouldn’t leave your pup confined to their crate for extended periods. You want them to view their crate as a safe and comfortable space.
Puppy potty training – Create a routine
Setting a timer for every hour can remind you to take your puppy out before they need to go. As your training progresses, you can increase the time between potty breaks. Keep in mind that small dogs like Frenchies may need to go more frequently, around every thirty to forty-five minutes. A good schedule looks like this:
- First thing in the morning
- Last thing at night
- After playing indoors
- After spending time in a crate
- Upon waking up from a nap
- After chewing a toy or bone
- After eating
- After drinking
If your puppy doesn’t manage to do their business outside, bring them back indoors and keep a close eye on them. You can even try tethering them to your waist again and attempting to take them outside in 10-15 minutes. Remember, patience and consistency are key when it comes to housetraining your Frenchie friend.
Summary
Teaching a puppy to use the potty can be difficult, yet it is a crucial aspect of raising a dog. It may take a few months and mishaps are bound to occur, but with persistence and regularity, your puppy will eventually learn to manage their bowel and bladder.
My French Bulldog 