Puppy potty training

I said in my last Artisan blog post that I would talk about potty training and now the wait is over! Potty training should be thought of as a heavy chore. 
When you begin potty training you will need to take the puppy out directly after food or water and every hour. Directly after food and water because your puppy will act like a vessel and when you put some in some will come out.

 You should allow your puppy access to water every hour and food three times a day once, every time you would normally eat. You will also need to get up three times a night and take them out to try. 
No water or food two hours before bed is a good rule of thumb. Your puppy may cry very loudly her first night but you shouldn't immediately go to them because they need the time apart. This will result in some accidents but if you reward the puppy for going outside they will soon get it. 

When you are playing with your puppy or sitting with them and they decide to go potty grab him up and use a negative re-inforcer verbally while you sprint outside. The moment you reach the door you go quite and walk to your puppy spot and wait, they go tinkle and you reward. You will soon notice that she doesn't go every time and you can back off on the trips little by little. This method can also be paired with a crate if you prefer. Next I will be addressing socialization so stay tuned!

    Adam Madore 
professional dog trainer with Artisan dog training
 Lexington / Nicholasville