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Dr. Lisa is a trained veterinarian at Malibu Animal Hospital. She can answer your questions about cats, dogs and other household pets, including exotic animals. Sorry, but Dr. Lisa can't offer advice on horses, bears, elephants or other large beasts -- you're on your own! |
Dog Housebreaking
We have a very lovable 2 yr old Bichon that took almost a year to house break. In a few weeks we are getting a Bichon puppy.
What is the very best way to house break??? PLease be very specific. Someone had recomended using a play pen. Does the older 1 that is trained help or hinder the cause??
Housebreaking by Dr_Lisa Dear Al,
Sorry about the delay in my response. I have been on vacation for a couple of weeks. Anyway, I am finding that crate training seems to be the way to go when it comes to housebreaking. The most important part about it, is consistency. Once you get the basic understanding of how to do it correctly, this method is very effective. First of all, you have to make the crate a very inviting, comfortable place for the puppy. This can be achieved by feeding in the crate, having toys in the crate and the puppy spending a great deal of time in the crate. Also knowing that the puppy usually needs to eliminate first thing in the morning, a few minutes after playing, eating, drinking, waking from a nap and any kind of stimulation. If the puppy has an accident, do not scold or punish. This may cause the puppy to be afraid to ever eliminate in front of you. Instead, when the puppy does go where you want, when you want, make a big fuss over it. Also try to take the puppy to the same place to eliminate all the time. There are so many things to know when it comes to this method of housebreaking. I can't write it all down for you, but I have given you a good start. Let me know if I can ever be of any assistance again.
Good Luck........ Dr. Lisa
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