The Millstone Times May 2019

PET PAGES

Cats at Home:

Potty Training Your Puppy By Lauren Kolacki

Home Veterinary Visits

When you initially get a new pet, the love you feel is over- flowing. Your new furry friend has all your attention as all you want to do is play and cuddle with him or her. This is a natu- ral reaction to your new family member; however, you should remember it is not just fun and games. There are several steps that need to be taken in order to teach your puppy discipline and good behavior, the most important being potty training.

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Every puppy owner is different; therefore, they may prefer particular techniques over others. Below is a list of approaches to take towards potty training your puppy. After reading through you can decide what works best for your lifestyle. Crating Many people are opposed to the idea of caging your new puppy, I had a tough time getting used to it as well. However, there are several ad- vantages to this technique. Crating your puppy regularly makes them accustomed to a cage, which makes it much easier when it’s time to take a trip to the vet or bring your puppy along on a family vacation. The purpose of the crate is that your puppy will not want to sit in his or her own mess, therefore, they will wait until they are taken out to go to the bathroom. Puppy Pads and Paper Training Another approach for potty training your puppy is the puppy pads and paper training. This may take a little more time considering your puppy has to learn the concept of being allowed to go to the bathroom in the house but only if it is on a specified spot. Make sure to place the potty pad in an area that is easily accessible to your puppy and try not to move it while they are learning. While using this technique make sure to bring them to that pad every time you think he or she may need to go to the bathroom. Make a Schedule Making a schedule is the most ideal way of training our puppies. Of course, this can be difficult when the owners have jobs and obligations to tend to throughout the day. It is important for very young puppies to be taken out frequently • First thing in the morning • Last thing at night • After playing • After spending time in a crate • Upon waking up from a nap • After chewing a toy or bone • After eating • After drinking After the dog goes to the bathroom outside, applauding his/her behavior teaches them that they did something right and that they should contin- ue that behavior.

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The Millstone Times

May 2019