Advice for first time puppy owners - Updated :)

joansgirl

From my experience males seem to be a little bit more difficult to housebreak than females. Keep on trying, he'll get the hang of it eventually. You need to watch him closely and if you see him squat indoors, pick him up and take him to the correct place. Also try to pre-empt him by taking him out every couple of hours or so. Always praise a good result and ignore (as far as the puppy is concerned) the accidents. I'm pretty sure there's a spray you can buy to deter them from weeing in the wrong place, but how effective it is, I don't know. There's also a spray you can get to deter chewing which worked with my last dog. Not having the same problems with this one.

Raksha

Don't pick up, distract by a quick clap or shhh noise (depending on how sensitive the pup is) then call and encourage them to the door, or they will never learn how to get out and do it independantly. Toilet training in good weather is easier than winter time, but don't be surprised if things take a step backwards when you have to start keeping doors shut

joansgirl

Picking up has always worked with mine. By the time you've distracted them they've done it all. Making noises just scares them.