House Training Puppies and Adult Dogs

1. Establish a routine: Create a consistent schedule for feeding and taking your dog outside to the toilet. Puppies generally need to go shortly after eating, drinking, playing, or waking up from a nap. Adult dogs generally have better bladder control than puppies, so you can space out toilet breaks accordingly. Aim for a routine that aligns with your dog's natural toilet needs.
2. Choose a specific toilet area in your garden: Select a specific spot outside where you want your dog to go. Take them to this area consistently to establish the association between the location and toileting. If you already have a resident dog take your new dog out with them when they toilet.
3. Supervise and recognise signs: Keep a close eye on your dog at all times, especially during the early stages of housetraining. Use baby gates to confine them to a smaller area with you so you can learn to recognise your dogs signs of needing to go to the toilet, such as sniffing, circling, or whining. When you notice these signs, immediately take them outside to the specific toilet area outside.
   
4. Use a consistent command: Choose a specific word or phrase, such as "wee wee's" or "get busy" and use it consistently when you take your dog outside to toilet. This helps them associate the command with the act. 
5. Reward and praise: When your dog toilets in the appropriate area, immediately praise them and offer a treat. Positive reinforcement helps reinforce the desired behavior.
6. Clean accidents properly: If your dog has an accident indoors, clean it up thoroughly using an enzymatic cleaner such as Simple Solution. This eliminates the scent, as residual odour may encourage them to go in the same spot again.
7. Avoid punishment: Never scold or punish your dog for accidents. This can create fear and anxiety around toileting and hinder the housetraining process. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and redirection to the designated toileting area.
8. Be patient and consistent: Housetraining takes time, and accidents will happen along the way. Stay patient, remain consistent with your routine, and continue reinforcing the desired behavior. Your dog will gradually learn where and when to go to the toilet.
9. Adjust as your puppy grows: As your puppy gets older and gains more control over their bladder and bowel movements, you can gradually increase the time between toilet breaks. However, continue to maintain a consistent schedule and provide ample opportunities for them to toilet outside.

Remember, every dog is different, and the housetraining process can vary in duration. Some dogs may catch on quickly, while others may take a bit longer. Adult dogs may have established habits or behaviours that need to be addressed and retrained. Stay consistent, be patient, and celebrate their successes.