Housebreaking an older dog can be kind of tricky. They are usually set in their ways and less inclined to learn new things. Their brains have already been wired and to change that wiring it takes some time and effort. With a little bit of training and patience housebreaking an older dog can easily be done.
You may have decided to adopt an older dog from a shelter who isn’t trained in the art of peeing outside. This is an exciting moment to have a new dog, but it will take some work for the fellow to get used to his surroundings and learn the new rules. Especially, the act of potty training an older dog.
Housebreaking an older dog – Understand the Dogs Stress
This is a totally new environment for your dog, he hasn’t even figured out where he’s going to sleep yet. He’s going to be under a fair amount of stress while he gets used to his surroundings. Stress level should be taken into account when house training an older dog.
The best advice you are going to get is forget that he is an older dog and treat him as though he were a puppy, learning things for the first time. Before you bring him into your home, encourage him to go to the bathroom outside. This is the beginning of letting him know where it is okay to eliminate waste. As soon as he is done, immediately praise him for this act, giving him positive attention.
The new food and water you give him he is not going to be used to. This may incite diarrhea in the dog. Make certain he can access the outside frequently. If he has an accident inside, don’t reprimand him or yell at him. Only praise him when he has gone outside and produced the desired behavior.
The upside to this is that puppies have less bowel and urine control than older dogs. Your older dog will be able to hold himself for longer than a puppy would, preventing the possibility of frequent accidents in the house and you’ll be on your way to housebreaking an older dog.
Housebreaking An Older Dog By Giving Them a Routine
Dogs are habitual creatures, just like humans. They like routine and get used to it quickly. While training your dog to use the bathroom outside, take him outside on a regular schedule. Commonly, good advice is to take him first thing in the morning, twenty minutes after meals, then just before bed. Every time he eliminates outside, praise him for it. He will eventually get the idea that these are the times to go and this is the place to do it.
Utilizing a crate for potty training is a positive way to give your dog his own personal space and ensure that he won’t use the bathroom in the house. Using a crate that is big enough to move around in but small enough that he can’t use the bathroom then walk away from it, you ensure proper training. Dogs don’t like to go to the bathroom where they sleep and rest.
Dog training in older dogs takes patience, a little bit of humor and compassion. Remember that you are his master, and he really does want to please you. So it’s important that you praise him and let him know that you are pleased by his behavior. In this case, housebreaking an older dog will be a complete success.