3 Tips to House Breaking an Adult Dog
When you think of house breaking a dog, usually a puppy comes to mind. But what happens if you’re fostering or have rescued an adult dog that needs house breaking training? Here are 3 tips to potty training your older pooch:
1. Be consistent with feeding times
Feed your dog at the same time every day and take away their bowl between meals. This prevents them from grazing during the day, which will prevent the need to go at all hours of the day.
2. Have scheduled potty break times
Consistently schedule at least 4 potty breaks during the day, and allow your dog plenty of time to do his business when you go outside. Going at regular times can help your dog get on a schedule and will reduce the need to go inside. You can also go to the same area each time. Smelling his own scent will be a reminder that it’s a good time and place to go.
3. Reward good behavior
Make sure you’re ready with a reward of treats, verbal praise, or a toy when she goes where you want her to.
If you watch your dog very closely, you should be able to pick up on the signals she gives when she needs to go. If you can use those cues as a sign to go outside, that can help speed up the training process. If not, you could start crate training since most dogs won’t go in their crates. Whatever method you take, employ some patience and some high quality carpet cleaner until you’ve passed the hurdle of house breaking!
