Re: House breaking a rescued adult Jack Russell

In Reply to: House breaking a rescued adult Jack Russell
Category:   House Breaking
Posted by:  Katie Matthews
Posted on:  September 28, 2002 at 17:52:13

: We adopted a Jack Russell at the age of 1 year. We were told he was housebroken but quickly found out he was not as he has urinated and defecated in several areas of the house since we have had him (he is now almost 2 years old). We have tried crate training and that has not worked with him. My husband is ready get rid of him but I'm too attached. What other methods can I try? He is an extremely strongwilled dog but very loving. I cannot turn him into a full-time outside dog as he occasionally escapes from our fenced-in yard.

Response:

Hi Katie,

Thanks for adopting one of our terriers in need!

First of all if your JRT isn't neutered, plan on doing that ASAP.

Then you will need to do Housebreaking 101 with him, which means start putting him on a feeding/potty schedule. Remember too, not a lot of treats during housebreaking!

You would do yourself a big favor by checking out the link I am providing and get yourself a copy of "How to Housebreak a Dog in 7 Days' by Shirlee Kalstone. Now it will take more than 7 days, but the book is a little gem with lots of ideas and tips to help you help your dog.

On top of that, use our Go-to-Ground search, housebreaking is our number one question so there are TONS of previous posts on the subject and you should be able to find even more tips.

Remember, this dog has now had 2 years of not 100% housebreaking so don't expect miracles overnight.