SAMPSON…

PUP IN TRAINING

Puppies are not considered fully housebroken until they've gone at least four consecutive weeks without eliminating in the house. And, yes, you can expect a few accidents. Remember this is a new skill for Sampson and it takes time and patience to develop routines. Until you're in the clear, try the following strategies to minimize messes:

Keep him within eyesight at all times
Prop up baby gates to control your pet's movements
Kennel your pup when she's unsupervised

Become a Cleaning Machine: Take Care of That Carpet

If Sampson does pee or poop on the floor, it is imperative you thoroughly remove any potty odors. If the scent lingers, he will continue to return to the area to mark his territory. Remember to:

Use a commercial product specifically designed for doggy smells
Saturate any contaminated area with the product
Keep your puppy out of any rooms where continual accidents occur

Being the Heavy: How to Discipline While Housebreaking

Be ready with disciplinary strategies before Sampson has an accident. Remember, this is tough work for him, so be gentle in your reprimand. A nasty voice may scare him into thinking he shouldn't void in front of you, even outside. Instead, try this:

If you catch him in the act, provide a startling distraction like stomping your foot or saying "No!" loudly. Then, correct the behavior by taking him immediately outside to his potty place. If he continues to go, praise him effusively;

Scold him only once, then drop it. There will be plenty of other opportunities to practice;

Despite the old cliché, never rub a puppy's nose in his own waste. This will serve only to scare him. Besides, it is simply unkind.

Keep On Trying: Your Puppy Will Succeed!

Yes, the process of housebreaking your puppy will try your patience. But know the majority of pups get the idea pretty fast, providing you offer them consistent rules and praise. While you're waiting, remind yourself that housebreaking is a skill, like reading and writing, which demands the alignment of both mind and body