BehaviourLOG
JESSICA
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28/12/2020
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Puppies need to learn where the appropriate place is to eliminate: they don’t come pre-programmed! This takes time, patience and consistency, but doing the work in the beginning will
be worth it in the long run!
Training Steps
Be consistent!
Puppy must be taken outside to the same spot to eliminate:- after eating, drinking, sleeping, playing.
- first thing in the morning, last thing at night, potentially a few times in between.
- at least every hour, depending on size/age.
Anticipate when she needs to go by watching for behaviours like sniffing, circling, scratching, and restlessness, then immediately coax her outside.
Allow her to walk to the area so that she learns the way (instead of picking her up).
Wait calmly without offering too much attention until after she does her business.
When she eliminates, reward with a few yummy treats, praise, and play! Make it really clear that going in the right place means that great things happen.
Get her used to wet surfaces as early as possible, so she is comfortable eliminating outside when it rains.
Never allow unlimited access to areas until she is fully trained.
If she does make a mistake, interrupt urination and take her to the designated area, then reward for going in the right spot. You can’t interrupt defecation once it has begun, so just clean up and try to be more careful next time.
When cleaning mistakes, avoid products that contain ammonia as this encourages your puppy to repeatedly use this area. C02 based cleaners and surgical spirits work best at breaking down the scent of puppy’s waste.
TOP TIP: If your puppy makes a mistake inside the house, avoid scolding, reprimanding, or punishing as this only teaches her to be scared of your presence. She will be afraid to eliminate when you’re around so may leave little surprises in and around the house while you’re away. Rather amp up your supervision and structure, learn to better notice the signs that she is ready to go, and increase the frequency of visits to the toiling area.
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