House training is likely to be the first introduction a new dog owner has to training their four legged friend. This article aims to outline a few of the potty training techniques for puppies that are considered effective and speedy.

Paper Training

Paper training consists of the owner keeping a very close eye on their puppy for a number of weeks and encouraging them to toilet on areas covered in paper. Gradually, the area of paper is made smaller and moved towards the door until finally, the dog is toileting outdoors. When using this method, there is usually a lot of cleaning to be done to ensure the odor caused by "accidents" does not encourage the dog to go there and pee again.

Outdoor Reinforcement Method

This is a little used method that involves either using a verbal command or clicker to reinforce toileting outside. It can be an effective potty training technique but is usually more time consuming than other methods.

Using a Litter Box

This technique is better suited to puppies rather than adult dogs. Instead of using an area covered with paper, the pup is encouraged to use a litter box similar to a cat litter tray. Each time you spot fido starting to pee or poop, whisk them to the box to finish and get on with the clean up! Over time, your dog will seek out the litter box. Once this behavior begins, start to manoeuvre the litter box towards the door and eventually into the garden. Once your dog is going outside regularly, the litter box can be discarded. As with paper training, a great deal of direct supervision is needed.

Crate Training

In my opinion, this is the most effective potty training technique for puppies and adult dogs alike. During times when the owner is unable to supervise his or her dog indoors, the dog is confined to a crate or cage. Instinctively, the dog will avoid soiling this area. By letting the dog out of the crate to potty outdoors, it will learn quickly that outside is the place to toilet and indoors is the "den".

All of the above are effective potty training techniques for puppies. Whatever method you decide on using, remember that it will take a little time and, on the most part, a lot of effort and dedication to the plan. Don't give up and ideally, get plenty of detailed information about your chosen housebreaking method before you start. Proper planning prior to commencing potty training your puppy or dog will save hours, if not days, of frustration and cleaning up pee from the carpet.