Re: Our puppy is confused and has things wrong

In Reply to: Our puppy is confused and has things wrong
Category:   House Breaking
Posted by:  Chris
Posted on:  January 29, 2002 at 02:33:01

: Our JR, probably because of our own fault, has got the idea that inside is where you go to the toilet and no matter how long he is outside he waits until he is brought in to go again. What is the best way to go about re-educating him please? In all other aspects he is great, affectionate, healthy, playful and extremely obedient. Thanks, Chris.

Response:
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Hi Chris,

Here's how my husband and I have successfully housetrained five terriers:

1) Make a really big deal out of going 'outside'. Go to the door, say to the terrier, "Wanna go out? Wanna go out?" in your most cheerful voice. Jump around a bit, act like a fool, get the terrier excited. Once the terrier barks, open the door. If you do this often enough, the terrier will get the idea that 'bark' = 'outside'. Eventually the terrier will ask to go out by barking with no encouragement needed from you.

2) Go outside with the terrier and literally stand around until the dog does its duty. DON'T play with the dog or even talk to it. No direct eye contact. Stand in one spot, gazing at the sky or the horizon. Let the terrier toodle & sniff around, keeping watch out of the corner of your eye. As soon as the terrier does its duty it's time for lots & lots of praise: "Good boy! Good boy!", a few scratches and pats. Take the terrier back inside.

Be really persistent with both points, and the dog WILL make the connection that outside = potty. It's been my experience that, given loving patience, this takes 2-4 weeks to accomplish. While training, don't punish the dog for going potty inside. Make 'outside' a positive experience for the dog. Hope this helps!

Best,
Judy