One rule is that you cannot punish your dog if you didn't see him doing anything. This means that if you come home and your dog has soiled the carpet, do not reprimand him since he will not remember what he did and will feel confused. This will hurt the relationship that you are trying to build with your dog since dogs have a strong desire to please their owners. The second rule is if your puppy does something right in regards to housebreaking; make sure that you let him know. Praise is very important with dogs and your progress will be expedited if you do this. You can do this verbally and/or with treats.



When you first get your pet, you must keep a watchful eye on him. If he starts to circle around, sniff, or lift a leg, it is a good indicator of what he is about to do. Tell him, ?No? firmly but not loudly. Then, take him where you would like him to go and praise him if he does go. When you leave your house before he is completely housebroken, consider keeping him gated in the kitchen or in a crate.