2torial #0827: Learn2 Housebreak a Puppy Understand your dog and his instincts Unless you see life through a dog's eyes, the housebreaking process may seem arbitrary. But if you enter into a puppy's world, you'll be a more sympathetic and effective master. You need to know some things about your new companion: Bladder control: Until puppies reach ten or 12 weeks, they have little say over their bladder or bowels. Don't scold the pup for something that's entirely out of his control. Instead, concentrate on getting your puppy outside at the times he's most likely to go. Creating good habits: A great deal of the housebreaking process is simply pairing certain conditions with certain responses. For example, when you know your puppy has to go, take him outside and put him on the grass. If you repeat this process enough, he'll actually associate grass with doing his duty. This is also why you always want to return to the same area for your pup's potty trips. Living for the moment: Puppies live in an eternal present. Unless you catch a dog in the act, don't scold him, especially if he's very young. Shoving his nose in the mess after the fact will do nothing except instill fear--of you! Sniffing and circling: When a dog has to go, he'll usually let you know by circling and sniffing--unless he's really desperate and doesn't have time. When you see this happening, stop him with a firm "No" and perhaps a tug at the scruff of the neck. Then take him outside immediately. Clean bed: Dogs have a natural instinct not to soil their beds. If you keep your puppy in a confined space when he's unsupervised--in a crate, for example--he'll hold it until you let him out (at least after he reaches about ten weeks). If at this point you take him straight outside, you're on your way to creating the right habits. Step 2