by Sara Trimble

Created on: July 04, 2009

Money's tight these days. So why use it on things you don't have to? Such as dog training. Most people say they'd rather pay a professional to do it because they don't have to. Okay, that makes sense. But what if you know how? It's not hard, it's not as time consuming as you think, and it creates a better bond between you and your pet. This article will focus on various training techniques, which have been applied successfully with over twenty different dogs of various breeds. First, let's look at house breaking. This is a major issue to consider when you decide to get a pet. Do you have the time to train your puppy to go outside? How about the patience?

For a person ready to housebreak a puppy, the following things are useful. Newspaper, or puppy pads. A leash or pinned up area outside for the puppy to complete it's business. Treats. An enclosed area inside your home that's easy to clean up and won't be damaged by puppy mess. A rolled up newspaper or magazine. A separate mop, floor sanitizer, and paper towels.

Step One: Don't expect overnight success. Be prepared for accidents. Even after your pet is fully housebroke, mistakes will happen.

Step Two: Set a time limit for when to feed your puppy and stick to it. Early morning is usually best so that everything will be out of the animal's system before night time.

Step Three: Set a routine. During the day, if you're able to stay at home, allow your pet to roam around but repeatedly take him outside, especially if you notice signs that he might be ready to go to the bathroom. Examples of this are sniffing the floor, walking in small circles and squatting. If an accident happens, place the puppy's nose in the wet area, tell it no in a firm voice, show it where the puppy pad is, and then proceed to take him outside for a ten minute period. Repeat this process as often as needed.

Step Four: Reward for good deeds. When your puppy has learned that he's to go outside but can't make it, he'll choose the puppy pad as his second choice. During these times, reward him with a healthy snack such as a dental stick or puppy chicken strip. Praise him with kind words and repeatedly tell him good boy while showing him some affection.

Step Five: Gradually move the puppy pad closer to the door. As your pet gradually begins to use the designated area inside the house, start moving it closer to the door your animal will use when it needs to go outside. Only at night should you lock her in the same enclosed area covered in puppy

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