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Originally Posted by Maximo  I strongly advise against rubbing the dog's nose in the spots. This kind of punishment is counterproductive and, in my opinion, will contribute to behavior and disposition problems.
Praising your dog for every correct potty will yield much better results. Never stop praising. Maybe include a small treat too (I use a single kibble). Let your dog know that you are ecstatically happy about each correct potty.
Give your dog structure and a schedule for eating, walks, playing, and training. Make sure your dog has adequate opportunity to potty outside.
You indicated that your dog is crated when you leave home. If you work or are gone for extended periods of time during the day, the dog should not be crated. Can you give your dog an xpen or small room (one with easy to clean flooring)?
Restricting freedom of movement within your home, especially when unsupervised, is good. However, having a little room to move around will make for a much happier dog with the potential for better potty habits. |
Great advise!! I would also add, that if you find an accident after the fact, there is nothing you can do about it except clean it up and leave it at that. Don't get mad at him, because he won't understand what you are upset about.
When "punished" for accidents in the house, they tend to take that as non approving for the "
act of going potty", not the "act of going potty
in the house".
This can drive them to hide when going potty in the house or anywhere, not fun to find poo poos behind the couch, two weeks later
