Written by Michael Young

Housebreaking by Michael Young

One of the most common issues people have with their pets is getting them housebroken cause lets face it; no one wants their dog using a carpet as their toilet. This isn't necessarily easily fixed and can take time and patience but it is important to have a successful relationship with your pet. First thing to remember one of the best ways to train your pet to go outside is by starting them on a routine. By taking your pet out around the same time slots everyday many times a day will help teach it when and where to go. One of the best times to take your pet out is immediately after feeding. This is because dogs have faster metabolisms than humans so the food is processed and excreted faster. Also taking them out immediately after playing or a nap will help them distinguish where and when they need to go to the bathroom. Once your pet has done his business praise him or her for it with things like positive verbal and physical reinforcement such as a lot of petting and saying things such as good boy etc. Also another obvious reward for your pet is some sort of treat, however you do not want your pet becoming dependent on these little snacks every time they go to the bathroom.  If this is done consistently enough your dog should learn to let you know when to he or she needs to go out. Remember dogs are creatures of habit and consistency is key.

Of course this is an effective way of housebreaking your pet, it is not guaranteed. If your pet is having trouble learning there are ways to help discipline them. The obvious verbal scolding is an effective disciplinary tool; also putting them in a cage or in a room by themselves can be like a time out to them. Some say putting the your dogs face in or near where they made their mess can be effective, although this can be, some may feel it is mean or cruel to the pet. From personal experience simply acting like you are going to put their face in it is enough for them to get the message. Hitting or abusing the dog is always out of the question, not only is it simply wrong and abusive, it can lead to more serious issues down the road such as aggressiveness or avoidance of human contact.

Sometimes your pet making its mess inside is not due to it not being house broken but could be the result of something else. For example some dogs do something called submissively pee, this is actually a sign of respect in dog language. This is when the dog gets low to the ground or squats to urinate when it is being greeted or scolded. For the most part dogs will no soil where they live, sleep and eat. If your dog was raised in a pet store it may not know any better because it was never given the chance to go anywhere else. Male dogs who have not been neutered will mark their territory by urinating on it, this is easily fixed by having them neutered that will most likely help fix many other behavioral problems as well. If there are other problems that do not fit in any of these categories your dogs problems may be due to medical problems such as a urinary tract infection, which is most common in older dogs, but should be checked out with your veterinarian immediately. Hopefully by reading this you have gained some useful knowledge to help you properly train your pet.  Remember be patient consistent and loving and with enough work your pet should be house broken in no time.