© Majesty Chows - House Breaking

HOUSE BREAKING

1) Take the puppy out frequently and gently praise the puppy after producing urine or feces. Always say "let's go outside" or even keep it simple and say "outside" when you are taking the puppy out. Soon he or she will start associating the word "outside" with pottying outside. Later you will be able to ask the pup the question "do you need to go outside", if so you will recognize your pups body language.

You may have to wait around for awhile for the pup to actually go. It is important for you to be outside see when he or she actually goes so you can praise and positively reinforce the "good deed". Always take your puppy out right after eating. Digesting food will activate the bowel tract and puppy will need to go shortly after. Usually within 5 to 20 minutes after eating. Please give them enough time to go and not bring them in to quickly. It may take 1 minute or could take 15 minutes or so.

2) While the puppy is in the house a responsible person needs to watch the puppy 100% of the time or confine the puppy to a small area where your puppy will not potty or an easy clean up and without getting the smells all over a large area which will draw him or her or even other animals to potty in that same spot at a later time, or cause confusing to if it is allowed to potty in the house.

Sometimes during this training period a crate is a help tool. No two puppies are the same. Some will almost house break their self while others are more stubborn. Chows is clearly the easiest breed to house break. Do not keep the puppy in a crate for long suffering periods of time. Being in a confined area will cause him or her to hold urine and feces for the longest period of time possible and when taking straight from the crate to the yard he or she should go first thing and then you can praise the pup for doing the "good deed".

3) Clean all areas that the puppy has urinated or defecated in the house with an active enzyme cleaner specifically sold to eliminate these type of odors. Ask your pet supply store to recommend a good product. I use the Nature's Miracle or Urine Off for stain and odor remover. I usually purchase from Revival Animal for the best price.

4) When you are watching the puppy, if the puppy squats in the house, firmly say "Go outside" or "outside". Keep words simple so the puppy can understand the easiest. Pick the puppy up quickly and take him or her to the yard - Even if you think your pup has finished on your carpet. Clean up any mistakes right away for best odor control results. Use a stern voice while saying No or these types of words.

5) Chows are the quickest breed to house break. Most chows even as puppies are clean and like to potty in the same area. They also are careful not to jump or walk in the messes. They also don't eat stools as many other breeds do.

6) Never spank your puppy. Only use a firm voice. Hitting your puppy will only cause fear and rebellious ideas and feelings. Occasionally there is a harder to train chow than the norm. Just be patient and feel free to write me if you have questions.

7) If you decide or require use of a crate for house breaking your puppy, please see the instructions provided on the crate training page. I have successfully house broke my chows without the aid of a crate. I know sometimes it is necessary. There are pro's and con's about crates. They do keep safety for you puppy as well. I have seen neglected dogs in crates and dogs not properly exercised. If you chose to use a crate please be thoughtful. A lot of dog owners and professionals have their own opinions on this subject.

8) Another suggestion for dog owners without a fenced yard is to have a dog cable or chain securely staked down where your dog can just reach your back door or porch. By doing this you can safely let your dog go out to do the "good deed" without the restricted movement that a leash provides. This method also frees up your schedule better and also is less bother than going into the elements, mud, putting on shoes, grabbing umbrellas and so forth.

This information was written and provided by Majesty Chows.

HOUSE BREAKING - Several methods shared in this site.

Updated 01/24/2008