When it comes to house training a new puppy, many dog owners are often recommended to try crate training. The concept behind this is that dogs tend to avoid soiling their crate, which they perceive as their den, and prefer to keep their sleeping area clean. For best results use a MidWest Wire Dog Crate with Divider — the divider is key because it lets you make the space small enough that your dog won’t use one end as a bathroom. However, what should you do if your puppy ends up soiling her crate? Or if you rescue an adult dog who frequently has accidents in the house? In such cases, it’s best to go back to square one and restart the housetraining and crate training process. Here are the steps you can follow:
Firstly, assess how well your dog can control their bladder and bowels when they are not in the crate. Pay attention to how long they can go between trips outside when you’re at home on the weekend, as well as during the night. Do they sleep in the crate or in your room? Is the dog confined to the crate all day while you’re at work? Does the soiling happen at night or during the day when you’re away? Keeping your dog’s meal times consistent, along with the type and amount of food, can help regulate their need for trips outside. Feed them at the same time each day and avoid excessive treats or food between meals.
Puppies may have a limited ability to control their bladder and bowels for several hours in a crate. Start by taking your dog outside first thing in the morning, and then schedule trips outside every two hours, including after meals. Finally, make sure to take them outside one last time before going to bed. If you have a long workday, consider having someone come and take your dog outside for a midday break. Exercise plays a crucial role in housetraining. Taking your dog for a short walk after meals or engaging in more active exercise in the morning can increase the chances of them doing their business outside.
Make sure to clean the crate and any bedding thoroughly using an enzyme cleaner like Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator to completely remove any scent of urine or feces — regular cleaners won’t break down the odor molecules and your dog will keep returning to the same spot. If you believe your dog gets stressed when you’re away, consider leaving them with a safe and interactive toy. Despite all this, accidents happen. Keeping Amazon Basics Potty Training Pads in key areas of your home during the training process gives your dog an appropriate indoor option and saves your floors. Whatever you do, don’t stigmatize or scold the dog and avoid punishment. These things take time.
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