Puppy Potty Training Basics for First Time Dog Owners
If you are planning on owning a dog for the very first time, one of the things that may have you worried the most is their puppy potty training. It’s true that potty training can be challenging at times but if you have sufficient patience and the right attitude, it can actually be a very rewarding experience for both you and your young pup. Its all part of their house and dog obedience training.
During the first few days after bringing your new puppy home, it is quite inevitable for some potty accidents to occur. They may happen due to many different reasons — you may be allowing your pup too much freedom around the house or maybe you don’t watch him closely enough or maybe he just doesn’t understand yet what you want him to do with his puppy training.
It is an important element of puppy potty training to not let these accidents get to you. Don’t chastise the dog for simply following his natural instincts and relieving himself. Let him know that you disapprove not of the action itself but of where he chooses to do the action.
Punishing the dog severely for potty accidents is not advisable either. This will only confuse the dog more and encourage him to do his business where you won’t see him, like under the bed or behind the couch.
You Need Positive Puppy Potty Training
Instead, a more positive method of puppy potty training is recommended. Show him the places where he is allowed to do his business. Avoid hitting, yelling and rubbing the dog’s nose in the poop or urine at all costs.
The best way to go about the entire potty training process is to use encouraging words, give rewards and minimize the risk of accidents. Each time you see your puppy going potty at the right place, praise him quietly and give him a treat.
If your dog has already been properly potty trained and you suddenly notice a series of accidents inside the house, this may be a sign of illness. The best thing to do in such situations is to bring your dog to the veterinarian and have him checked for possible health problems.
Dog Behavior Problems – Urinating When Excited
If you notice that your puppy habitually urinates as he excitedly welcomes you when you come home from work, don’t be too alarmed because this is not really a serious puppy potty training problem.
It is natural for most puppies to be unable to control their urine flow when they get over excited. Just take it in stride and be happy to know that your dog is excited to see you. Most puppies do grow out of this “submissive urination” phase within a few weeks.
