Expert Dog Trainer for Housebreaking in Waco, TX
Housebreaking a dog also called Potty Training a Dog
Effective Housebreaking and Habitation Training for Dogs
There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to how to housebreak a dog; also called Potty training a dog. At Species K9 Training we work with mother nature and not against it. Housebreaking is far more than a dog not doing potty in the house. We refer to this as habitation, because the dog needs to learn that it cannot go around picking up anything off the floor or take things off the counter.
We do all of this by tracking the behaviors and introducing appropriate housebreaking behaviors for your dog. This is how you work with your dog and not suppress your dog’s natural behaviors. This allows us to intervene before the behavior occurs. In doing so you are building your relationship with your dog, they are learning you will provide for them. This is a more natural approach to behavior; instead of suppressing a behavior.
When you suppress a behavior your dog will exhibit other behaviors; this is due to not dealing with root problems. We set up a simple chart to track negative behaviors and set up management strategies while working on the root problem. Once your dog has learned what is expected and given an outlet for their behavior you will see a change in them and the negative behaviors go away.
We discuss all of this in detail doing a consultation. Because dogs are unable to associate a past behavior with a current punishment, rubbing a dog’s nose in the pee on the carpet only serves to harm your relationship with your dog. So do not do that. Instead, book a consult me us, and we will give you a path to go down to work on housebreaking without doing any formal training with us.
Physical aggression should never been used with a dog. When physical aggression is introduced into the handler dog relationship we are telling the dog physical aggression okay. Thus allowing your dog to bite. Plus physical aggression harms the relationship, we want to build a relationship of trust and mutual respect.
Establishing Pack Structure:
Our Approach to Dog Housebreaking
At Species K9, we acknowledge that housebreaking transcends mere training; it’s a process aimed at nurturing a lasting, positive relationship with your furry friend. Our proven approach, deeply rooted in The Foundation Style Dog Training System™, ensures that your dog not only learns but optimizes their dog training time to be left unsupervised at home without causing any damage or surprises. Here’s an overview of our thorough methodology:
Understanding Your Dog's Behavior:
Having a solid grasp of your dog’s behavior and natural tendencies is crucial. Right from the start, we underscore the significance of comprehending these aspects, as they form the cornerstone for successful training.
Health Checks for Optimal Results:
Your dog must be in good health. You must make sure that elimination behavior is not related to a variety of health problems, that will make success impossible if not addressed. Examples include, but are not limited to: loose stool, urinary tract infection, bladder stones, kidney infection, incontinence, congenital abnormalities of the digestive or urinary system, diabetes, and much more. Consult your veterinarian if you have any suspicions.
Cultivating the Right Attitude:
Maintaining a positive and patient attitude is crucial, especially when addressing dog behavioral challenges. We strongly discourage any form of temper loss or yelling, as it can worsen issues such as submissive urination. Patience is the key to achieving solid housebreaking results, typically taking at least six weeks, even when dealing with dog behavioral problems.
Golden Rules of Dog Training:
You must understand the golden rules of dog training. Timing, Motivation, and Consistency must all be used perfectly to housebreak a dog. Our training approach adheres to the Golden Rules of dog training. Mastery of these principles is essential for effective housebreaking.
Housebreaking Tips for Dogs and Puppies:
Controlling Resouces
- Control when your dog has toys. This includes food, and affection.
- Do not let your dog on human resting or sleeping areas.
Leadership
- You control what your dog does and when.
- Provided for your dog so they do not self-advicate.
Feeding Schedule and Bowel Movements
- Feed your dog at the same for predictable bowel movements.
- Maintain a log of your dog's bowel movements to determine the best schedule for walks or going out.
- Use a consistent feeding schedule to aid in housebreaking.
Consistency and Corrections
- Consistency is key for at least a month of consistent follow-through.
- Corrections may be necessary for behaviors like counter surfing, invading the garbage, etc.
- Refer to an article on corrections in dog training for additional guidance.
Drive Balance and Chewing
- Satisfy your dog's restless spirit to reduce the urge to chew on unauthorized items.
- Establish clear rules on what is allowed to be chewed.
Common Principles for Puppies and Adult Dogs
Scheduled Bathroom Breaks
- Follow a schedule; three times a day for most adult dogs.
- For puppies, take their age in months as a starting point for the schedule.
- Dogs should learn to rely on consistent times for bathroom breaks.
Confinement
- Confine dogs and puppies to a small, comfortable area when unsupervised.
- Use crates and kennels as effective training tools to encourage cleanliness.
Immediate Reaction to Signs
- Act quickly if signs of an accident are observed, such as circling.
- Never get mad at the dog if a mistake occurs; instead, bring them outside
Positive Reinforcement
- Reward dogs and puppies for relieving themselves outside during the initial month
- Use enthusiastic praise and treats to reinforce good behavior.
Housebreaking Chart as a Tool
To enhance your training experience, we highly recommend utilizing our Housebreaking Chart (Habitation Chart). This tool will help track progress and identify patterns, ensuring a smooth and effective housebreaking journey. Track when unwanted behaviors happen. So the next day you can anticipate and provide for the dog before the behavior happens. This way the dog learns it will be provided for and does not need to self-advocate.
Remember that accidents will happen, and it’s essential not to punish your dog for mistakes. Positive reinforcement and consistency will help your dog understand the desired behavior. If you’re struggling, consult with us as a professional dog trainer for personalized advice.
Begin your journey toward a well-behaved and housebroken companion with our comprehensive dog training services. Trust in our expertise to guide you through each level, providing the knowledge and support needed for a successful housebreaking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Achieving solid housebreaking results typically takes at least six weeks, though individual timelines may vary based on unique characteristics and challenges.
Yes, our training approach addresses various behavioral issues, including submissive urination. We prioritize a positive and patient attitude to effectively tackle behavioral challenges.
Absolutely. While we recommend at least one month of consistent training, our comprehensive correction strategies can be introduced afterward to address any lingering challenges. We will give you the tools to be successful.