How to Housebreak a Dog the Right Way

Some dogs make it really easy on their owner when it comes to housebreaking. They pick up the concept really fast. However, there are those dogs that make it a little tougher on you. No matter what you do, you just can't get the dog housebroken.

Whatever you do, don't take it out on the dog. Remember that hitting a dog will never get him to do what you want. In fact it might just make him angry, which would cause him to lash at you, just out of self defense and that's the last thing anybody wants, including the dog.

So what can be done?

Well, crate training is one of the best options you can have for housebreaking a dog. You have to remember though that when you use a crate on your dog, it can't be too big so that the dog has enough room to walk around inside of it, and it can't be so small that the dog gets stuck inside the crate. It should be open enough so that the dog has enough space so he can turn around.

Since dogs have a natural tendency not to defecate on themselves, they will hold it for as long as they can. So when you are ready to take him outside to do his business he'll start to get the idea that he has to be doing this outside. Whenever does defecate, it is important to give positive reinforcement. Say "good dog" in a rewarding tone of voice, and after a few more times, the dog should understand this concept of housebreaking.