Housebreaking (training a dog or puppy to eliminate in an appropriate spot) demands a great deal of patience from a pet owner.
One of the best things a pet owner can buy for their new puppy is a crate. Dogs do not view crates as cruel because, like their wild ancestors, dogs will instinctively seek the safety and security of a den. Predominate uses for a crate:
Provides security
Housebreaking a puppy so they'll learn to eliminate in an established place
Preventing your dog from chewing on household furnishings
Choose a crate to suit your dog.
A crate should be one-and-one-half times the dog's adult body length. The dog should be able to stand and turn around in its crate.
There should be soft washable bedding in the crate so it is warm and comfortable.
Do not leave the puppy in its crate all day. At 6 weeks, a puppy can last about four hours without eliminating. By 8 weeks, five hours. By 12 weeks, six hours. By the time the puppy is five to six months old, the puppy should be able to wait an eight-hour workday.
Do not put "housebreaking pads" in the crate. This will only confuse the pet's normal instinct not to eliminate in your home. |
