I just got a puppy too. We are crate training him and the first few nights were so rough. What we have learned to do when he whines is to ignore him. He will eventually realize that the barking/whining/crying is a useless cry. If you take him out when he is crying, he will then associate the crying with getting attention from you. It has been 5 days now and last night, he didnt cry at all when we put him in his kennel and yapped for about 10 minutes at 6 this morning. A BIG improvement from the 2 hours, every 4 hours the first few nights. Don't let him out or give him any attention if he is barking or crying while he is in his kennel. Only take him out or give him treats when he is quiet. Today he peed on my other dog's bed. Infuriating!! we put him immediately in his crate and of course he yapped and yapped. My boyfriend sprayed water on kingston's face and he kept quiet after that. In regards to the potty training, I think you have the right idea. Whenever he wakes up from a nap, you should take him to the PA. Also about 10 minutes after he eats or drinks water. What I have learned ( although not completely changed my/kingstons lifestyle to do this) is that whenever osito is not doing a structured activity ( playing with you, eating, drinking, being directly watched) he needs to be in his crate. The crate and consistency are supposed to be one of the best ways to potty train your dog. I guess we can be thankful that yorkies' ecological contributions are small! Also, once he has peed on the rug, he will continue to. His scent is on there now. Kingston does the same thing in two spots in our house. Good luck!
Sophie, Kingston and montego |