Dog Training Basics

Posts Tagged ‘housebreaking dogs’

Housebreaking a dog is more than just getting the dog to relieve himself in the right place and at the right time. It includes this, but it also involves his entire behavior in the house. He must learn things like what rooms he is allowed to enter and what places he is not allowed to lie on.

One of the most unwelcome conducts of any dog is to urinate on the carpet.  (A more exhaustive list of dog behavior problems is available in Dog Training Secrets.) Of course, young pups don’t know any better. They do it whenever they need and wherever they are. That’s natural. Therefore, it is important to start training him as soon as you bring him home.

If you got your pup when he was eight weeks old, you got him at the ideal time. But remember, the dog usually can’t control the urinating muscles until he is about twelve weeks old. This underlines how important it is to take your dog outside often during the first days of ownership. Especially get him out a short time after a meal. Every hour would be good for the first few days at least. When he goes in the proper place, reward him with voice and treats.

Positive reinforcement is crucial. He will understand a pat, a dog biscuit, kind and encouraging words. This assures the pet that he is pleasing you and most dogs like to do that. So, opportunities to go, and much praise when he does will reinforce his acceptable behavior.

Perhaps your dog is not welcome in every area of the house. For example, you may not want a black shedding dog on the white couch! Perhaps the dog is to stay out of your bedroom or at least off of your bed. Your pet must understand these rules.

Such training, say the best dog training books, is done by consistency and patience. If the dog goes into the forbidden area, then instruct him with words and drag him off, or out. Do this every time he trespasses so he knows this is not allowed, ever. Don’t make exceptions for anything for he won’t understand exceptions.

If you suspect your dog is trespassing when you are not watching, but not when you are, then it is obvious he likes the place but knows it is wrong. One family made it clear their dog was not to get on the living room furniture. But when they came home and felt the warm spot on the softest chair, the dog was caught. Try tricking the dog into thinking you are not watching when really you are. Then when you catch him disobeying the rule, rap his bottom with a paper and scold him so that he gets the message this is never allowed, watched or not.

Dogs generally like to please their masters. Therefore, when the dog follows the rules without being told, words of praise should be poured on. Let him know he has done very well to control his urge to do what feels good but is disobedient. If you give in, or give up, then remember the dog won and has really trained you.

Hope you enjoyed this article. Learn more tips and read reviews of top dog training books at http://www.dogtrainingbible.net.