Friday, January 20, 2012

New Pup? Now What?


So you were a very good little boy or girl last year and Santa treated you with a new puppy, but now what?  Are you having a hard time getting the pup adjusted to your life - or better yet - are YOU finding it difficult to adjust to having the pup in your life?

If you answered yes then you're in luck - pet expert, Aaron Hill, owner of Pets In the City has some great advice for how you can get your four-legged friend to mind his manners and keep his "business" in the great outdoors.


  1. Be aware - It's important to recognize your pet's existing bathroom tendencies.  For example, most dogs will need to relieve themselves after waking up in the morning and within 20 minutes of eating and drinking.  Typically, the younger the pup, the more urgent the need to go to the bathroom will be.

  1. Get on a schedule – As soon as possible you want to get your pet on an eating and drinking schedule.  Follow a strict schedule for potty breaks as well.  This is the best way to help eliminate accidents.

  1. Show them the way - It is paramount to train you pet where you want them to go.  When you take your pet out to go potty, walk directly to the same area that your pet has used before and be as "boring" as possible.  Let your dog sniff all around while you ignore them while they do their business.

  1. Give them praise - The key with potty training is all in the reinforcement of desired behavior.  When your pup successfully goes to the bathroom outside, shower him with as much attention and affection as you can!  Treats, praise, scratches, toys, play, whatever your dog loves most - let him know that going to bathroom outside is his ticket to happiness.  Never punish for accidents inside

  1. Try and repeat - If the dog  does not go to the bathroom outside, take him back in and put him in a crate or tether him to you with a leash so that you can monitor him indoors.  After 30 minutes, repeat the process of taking him outdoors to the designated potty spot and try again.
 
Aaron Hill is a certified professional animal trainer and the owner of Pets in the City (www.petsinthecity.com) a premiere Dog Walking / Pet-sitting/ Training service in Los Angeles.  He is certified in pet first-aid and CPR and is a member of Pet-Sitters International.

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