Dog And Wolf-Dog Training: Housebreaking Problems

This is a photo of Mayhem (photo credit: Alyssa Costa. I'm sure Mayhem never ever goes potty inside... lol.

So what can you do about regularly UNscheduled potty times?

First, if your dog was house-trained and is suddenly doing his business inside, he may have a health issue that needs further investigation.

Also, very timid animals who have experienced a move or change may not feel comfortable in their new home or doing business in front of a new person. It's not uncommon for them to poop when no one's looking inside for awhile. Be patient.

But most of all be consistent, even if it means getting your @$$ out of bed at the sound of pattering in the wee hours.

Crates are useful, but they are only a tool in the process. Animals need to know their potty needs will be met at regular intervals.

In the beginning, the intervals need to be short (every two hours) and your eyes and ears need to be sharp to prevent accidents. As time goes by, the intervals can be increased.

Prime Times For Early Potty Training Outings Other Than Scheduled Times

- After Naps
- After Eating or Drinking
- The Second Zommies End
- Three Minutes After Play Begins

Visual and Auditory Signs Of Impending Doom

- Sniffing
- Circling
- Wandering Away From The Action
- Whining
- Barking
- Slow Pattering Of Paws or Collar Jingle In the Next Room

Additional Tips

- Clean accidents with solution of Lysol and water
- Or spray spots with Lysol (it eliminates the odor)
- Designate a potty area and bring on leash, not just let out
- Enlist the help of a potty-trained dog to show him the way
- Bring poop outside and leave it in the designated potty area
- Praise and Name it... good potty/business when they stoop
- Keep praise low or no key for timid animals; it may startle
- Reward and praise some more

If you have tried and true methods or tips, please feel free to add, I'm always learning too.