[Misti1]

Originally Posted by Sarah515

This thread brings back memories....

When Lucy was a pup, I started crate training right away. She only whimpered and pooed the very first night. The key is to make sure the crate is not too big. Just enough for them to turn around comfortably. Be consistent! I used to cuddle with Lucy until she was sleepy and then put her to bed in her crate. I don't remember how long I did this but definitely several months.

Always take your pup to potty after waking, playing, eating, before going to bed and then every few hours depending on your dog. When she was real little I would wake up in the middle of the night to take her potty until she was able to hold it through the night.

For those that are standing outside for 30 minutes waiting for your baby to potty, oh I remember those days! I started with a short leash and gave the "go potty" command. Once she did, I gave her a cheerio or other small treat. As soon as she was done, I took her right back inside. Having her on a leash was helpful so I KNEW she went potty and then to not associate outdoors with playtime.

It also helped to track how many times she pottied through the day to see how often she would have to poo, etc. to help formulate a potty schedule. I was very lucky with her and I don't remember too many terrible accidents in the house.

Now here's my dilemma. Lucy has had free reign over our backyard for over a year now that she is big enough and housebroken. I am getting married next weekend and will be moving into an apartment where it is back to the leash. Ugggh. She is such a tomboy and LOVES the outdoors and I just know she is going to hate it. I am hoping to try, and I know this will be damn near impossible, but I am going to TRY and cross train her to use the pee pee pad for winter/rain. She is still learning everyday so I think there might be a speck of hope. We are also getting another puppy and will start this process from day one, so maybe that will help.

Sorry for the novel. Just a few things I learned along the way! Good luck!

Sarah

Sarah sounds like you did an excellent job, but do you work? I can't leave Maya locked in a small crate for so many hours with no relief.