Housebreak Your Puppy Dog - Potty Training Tips By Deborah Gewock

You have a new puppy-dog. Now what? Oh yeah, housebreaking him. So, what approach should you take? They are like children and need your patience during this trying process. Potty training is a first and crucial step to training. The sooner you get started, the sooner you can go on to other types of training.All puppies are different. What works for one does not necessarily work for another when potty training.Newspaper training is one way to go but it will be harder to break him from that to going outside. This is a confusing transition for him. It is usually better to skip that step.From experience, I have found a better approach.
Walk him first thing in the morning.
Be sure to take him out after eating or drinking.
If you play with him in the house, take him outside after the exercise.
You really need to watch his behavior through the day (if possible). If you pay enough attention you will learn the body language associated with him needing to go potty.
When you notice him sniffing around and circling, it usually means he is looking for a place to go. Get him outside immediately by picking him up and taking him outside.
Take him out frequently during the day. If he doesn't need to go potty, at least he will have the opportunity. It will get him used to going out. If he does potty, praise him a lot. Puppy dogs are happiest when they know you are pleased with them.
You shouldn't leave your pet in the house alone. Remember, they are like kids. If unattended they may do worse than soiling your floors.
It is also a good idea to have a pen, of some kind, in the yard for those times that you can't be watching them closely. Make sure they have toys to play with and don't leave them out there very long. Dogs get their feelings hurt easily and may think they are being punished.
Try to feed him at least 2 hours before bedtime and then walk him or let him out before bedtime.
It is also a good idea to confine him in a crate or pen overnight. This will prevent any accidents or mischief. If they are allowed to roam the house, almost anything can happen and you don't want to get up to that mess.
Never, I repeat, never rub your puppies nose in it and definitely do not yell at him. This will just humiliate him. And,yes, they do get embarrassed. Just pick him up and take him outside.
While he is outside, clean up the mess and use something that will take away the smell so he doesn't return to the same place.
Pay attention when he is standing by the door or pawing at the door. This, of course, means he is letting you know he needs to go out. This is a good sign.Your puppy dog is on his way to being housebroken.