My puppy was litter trained when I got him. I don't like that method because it gives the dog the idea that going in the house is OK. I outside trained him. It took 2 weeks of intense training. The first few days it took forever for him to go outside. First I would say "outside", then I would say"Potty" over and over while we were outside. When he finally went, he was given a treat and immediately taken inside. I did this every hour. He quickly learned that potty meant doing his "business", outside was for pottyonly, and a treat followed. I crated him when I was going to be gone longer than an hour and at night. He is now 11 months old and goes out every 2-3 hours during the day. He goes potty on command and since we live in a cold, snowy climate, he will do his "business" in less than 3 minutes. He is very reliable, but I never let him roam the house. He is allowed to be with me in the house, otherwise he is contained in the kitchen. He has not had an accident in over 2 months, but I still do not trust him...he's a baby. Granted, I am lucky in that I don't work and can devote this time to him. It is a lot easier when you're home all day. I've had many dogs over my life and have always gotten them in warm weather and during vacations so that I have had the time to stay at home and do nothing but housebreak. Choose a method and stick to it otherwise they get confused. My puppy loves his crate..it is his safe spot and he goes in there at bedtimeor whenever he has had enough play. it is a great training tool. |