Housebreaking a dog is a crucial part of ownership, but it can be difficult in the early stages. However, establishing an effective schedule and method is crucial for both you and your dog, and the veterinarians at Makai Pet Hospital in Kailua, HI, want to assist. With a little dedication, patience, and practice, you’ll be able to housebreak them in no time. Use the veterinarian-approved tips below to get started.

Tips for Housebreaking Your Pet

Don’t Scold

It’s a common misconception that you should scold your dog if they have an accident inside. Doing this won’t teach them it’s wrong; instead, they’ll think it’s wrong to go at all. Pick them up when you see them going and take them outside immediately. This lets them know to go outdoors. If you don’t catch them in the act, don’t reprimand them as they won’t understand what it means. Be patient as they will make mistakes, and it takes time to learn.

Create a Schedule

Dogs are schedule-based animals, so establish a routine as soon as possible. Puppies typically need to go every few hours, so take them out after they wake up, after they eat, and before they go to sleep. In between, pay attention to signs that they need to go, such as whining or sniffing around. When you take them out, wait as long as it takes for them to go, so they begin to understand that trips outside are designated specifically for bathroom breaks. Stick to this schedule no matter what, and enlist others to help if needed.

Reward

Both puppies and older dogs learn from positive reinforcement, so always reward them when they go to the bathroom outside. Provide treats and shower them with praise immediately after, as it will let them know they did something good. Speak with your veterinarian about preferred puppy treats that are healthy for them as you don’t want to promote weight gain.

For more tips on dog training and pet care, turn to a veterinarian at Makai Pet Hospital for assistance. They provide comprehensive veterinary services at their animal hospital, including dentistry, dermatology, and pet vaccinations. For over 30 years, they’ve helped pets and their owners maintain healthy relationships, so call (808) 262-9621 today to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian. You can also visit their website to learn more about their practice.