Housebreaking a puppy has the reputation of being a daunting task. True, it is a job that can eat up time, but it’s surely not impossible or horrifying—it’s actually something that can be done easily and with little skill. The recipe for successful housebreaking includes two ingredients: time and awareness.

Time

Housetraining your pup is something you should start immediately upon bringing him home. Do not wait a few days or even a few hours for that matter, as this will only create confusion. Your puppy will have to go about six times per day, so it is best to take him outside frequently. You could start by taking him out every half hour or hour, and then increase the intervals over time. Remember that ultimately your puppy wants to please you, so you must be clear and consistent about what you want from him. When he is successful, praise him. This way he knows he has made you happy. Eventually, he will learn that the only place he is supposed to go is outside.

Awareness

Aside from giving your puppy all that time taking her outside, you will also have to remain constantly aware of where she is and what she is doing for the first three to five months. Most of this involves getting used to her body language and then being able to quickly react! Warning signs include turning in circles while sniffing the floor, repeated pacing back and forth in the same area, and even standing or barking near the back door. When you see any of these behaviors, pick your puppy up and bring her outside. And do so pronto! This is especially true if she has already begun to go; this will tell her that using the inside is simply not an option. You will also want to figure out her natural schedule. Take her out first thing in the morning—before doing anything—and after every meal and indoor playing session, as well as last thing before going to bed. Over time you will eventually figure out her usual schedule, which has the tendency to stay consistent.

Patience, patience

Along with having time and being aware, you will of course need to practice patience with your new puppy as well. Remember he is not able to control the muscle that allows him to “hold it” until he is a few months old, so unless you are paying attention and taking him outside often, he is bound to go somewhere in the house. Also, with patience comes fairness; if he is left alone and inside all day, he is bound to have to go. Thus, coming home to a mess is a possibility. And just when you feel like this housebreaking stuff is too time-consuming, remember it’s worth it because it will last your puppy’s entire lifetime!