The Steps


Intro:
Before you begin
Step 1:
Understand your dog and his instincts
Step 2:
Consider a crate
Step 3:
Use praise, not blame
Step 4:
Set up a routine
Step 5:
Deal with accidents
Step 6:
Start taking risks

 

Family and Pets


2torial #0827:
Learn2 Housebreak a Puppy

Step 6Start taking risks

Of course, your puppy can't expect your rapt attention for the rest of his life. After two to three weeks of a strict schedule, you can start to introduce some flexibility. Think of this as an experiment: at certain points, you might find the pooch needs more time. Here are the steps of the weaning process:

  • Try stretching out times between walks by 30 minutes a week, or even an hour. Your dog will let you and your carpet know when you're going too fast.
  • Give your puppy more and more time outside the crate (though preferably in a room with an easy-to-clean floor such as the kitchen). However, continue to put him in the crate both at night and when you leave the house unattended, until he's earned your total trust.
  • Slowly introduce him into other rooms in the house, though always under strict supervision.
  • Stick to one brand of dog food, and if you do switch brands, have a transition period. Changing foods can cause diarrhea.

Your puppy will inevitably slip up (just as most children do), but don't be discouraged. If you're a diligent and dependable master in the first few months of your puppy's life, you'll be rewarded with a lifetime of good behavior.

-end-

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2torial #0885:
Groom a Cat

 

 

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