Housebreaking and Potty Issues
Can I allow my new dog to run loose outside?
Dogs who go outdoors unprotected can be injured by cars, exposed to toxins, get lost, and attacked by other dogs. This is especially true for a young, vulnerable new puppy. In addition, these dogs are more likely to be infected with intestinal worms, heartworms, bacteria and fungus. Keep your dog safely secured with a collar or harness and leash. Make sure the collar is tight enough that it cannot slip over your puppy’s head. Also make sure your puppy can be easily identified by a microchip, ID tag, or collar with your name and number in the event that you do become separated.
- Rivet-On custom engraved dog ID tag
- Go Tags Custom Embroidered Collars
- Lucky Pet ID tag bone shape custom engraved dog tags
- Personalized with your dog's name and phone number, in case she gets lost
- HomeAgain Microchip Implant Kit for Administration by Veterinarian
- QR Code Pet ID tag Accessory w/Smartphone GPS Tracking
- Combined with online registration to provide retrievable information
Can I allow my puppy to go out into my fenced yard by herself?
For the first couple of weeks, you should go out into your fenced yard with your puppy and watch carefully to make sure your pup has no intention of digging under or climbing over the fence. Even after you have confirmed this, you should watch her through a window as much as possible. You should only allow her out unattended if your fence is very secure. If your puppy is especially small, be aware that predators like birds of prey, foxes, raccoons, and even other dogs may be able to get into your fence and cause her serious injury.
- Ideal Pet Products Pet Door with Telescoping Frame
- Allows your dog to go outside whenever he needs to in your absence, but should be locked at night to keep your dog safely inside
- Friendly Pet Products Wireless Dog Fence
- Technology to reinforce or replace a physical fence; keep in mind that wireless fencing does not work to keep outside predators out!
- Perimeter Technologies Wire-Free Wifi Dog Fence
- Technology to reinforce or replace a physical fence; keep in mind that wireless fencing does not work to keep outside predators out!
Does my dog need a collar or harness for leash walking?
A puppy should always have a harness when leash walking, as pulling on a leash can cause damage to a developing trachea. As your puppy grows, depending on the size of him as an adult, the pressure of a collar alone can cause the trachea to collapse. The safest option is to use a harness, regardless of your dog’s weight, size, or leash walking manners.
How often should I take my puppy out to eliminate?
The general rule is that your puppy can hold his bladder for the number of months he is in age, plus one hour. So for instance, your 3 month old puppy can hold his bladder for roughly 4 hours. Getting on a schedule and sticking to it will help housebreak your puppy quickly. Also be sure to make a trip outside every time your puppy eats, drinks, wakes up from a nap, or has just finished a play session.
Can I train my puppy to use a litter box, artificial turf or a pee pad indoors?
Puppies may have a difficult time adapting to a brand new location for elimination. It is best to continue to use whatever location the puppy is already used to, especially at first. Some people find beginning with pee pads then gradually moving to outdoors more effective than going directly outdoors, while others find it harder to later transition to outside only because the pup has learned that going inside is acceptable. You have to decide what works best for your puppy and your lifestyle.
- PoochPad Reusable Potty Pads for Mature Dogs
- Large and extra absorbent
- PetZoom Pet Park Indoor Pet potty
- Synthetic grass material that looks and feels real
- Lowes large plastic storage containers
- Cut an opening for your small dog to enter and exit . Fill with sand or cat litter