problem with housebreaking HELP!!

[eeb]

My girlfriend and I recently bought a puppy...

We're having a real hard time getting him house broken mainly because we both work. It's getting to the point were she doesn't really want to keep him anymore.. I can't let that happen i love my little guy.. he's a min pin.

I keep him crated at night and when i get up first thing he wakes up and goes to the bathroom outside just fine.. it's the rest of the day that I don't know what to do... I don't feel right about keeping him crated from 9 to 5.. right now we have the kitchen gated off and a section with newspaper "(which he sometimes uses)... any suggestions?

 

[girlbuffalo1]

How old is he?

Does he get a break during the 9-5 hours?

I wouldn't start with the papers--that just trains them that it is okay to go in the house. My plan of action would be this--keep him in the crate at night, and during the day with potty breaks if possible.

Can one of you come home on your lunch break and let him out at least once--perhaps for a walk too? Maybe you could ask a friend, neighbor or family member that you trust--if they would be willing to help? Then there are more expensive options like dog walkers and puppy daycare.

Wrigley had maybe 2 accidents in his crate from being in there too long (in circumstances that we couldn't get there ect--not his fault). I would stick with the crate and see if you can come up with a schedule so that you can let him out during the day.

Also with leaving him in the crate so long make sure he get's lots of fun activities the other times when he is out and I would invest in a few good toys like a kong (If you haven't already) to quell bordom. My dogs would really care less if they were gated in the kitchen or in their crate (probably would prefer their crate) as all they do anyways when out in a room like that is lay there. LOL

 

[katt223]

I would crate him during the day if you can make it home for lunch and keep him out at night. He won't want to spoil his sleeping quarters and if he needs to go he should whine and wake you up to go. If you are leaving him out all day there is no one there to correct the behaviour when he decides to do his business all over the house... of course there will still be accidents but they should pass with time.

 

[Doberluv]

I think that's too long to leave a puppy alone with no one to come in and spend some time with him and take him to potty...no break in his day. Is doggie daycare an option? Or is there a neighbor who could come over mid day and take him for a while?

 

[eeb]

thanks everyone for your speedy replies..

there are definately people I can ask to help...

and worst case i'll check about the puppy day care..

I'm just too attached to the little guy (he's about 4 and a half months now) to let him go.

 

[katt223]

glad you're not giving up on the little guy... it takes training and you just have to find the best way that works for you

 

[Doberluv]

I'm just too attached to the little guy (he's about 4 and a half months now) to let him go.

Very natural and easy to do.

Also, there is a sticky thread called something like...how to housebreak a puppy w/o being mean. There are a lot of good posts in there. Mordy has a particularly good one. They may help.

 

[ToscasMom]

The thing is, without relief during the work day, a four month old puppy cannot hold from 9 to 5.

 

[noludoru]

Yeah, that's what I'm thinking, TM. Having a neighbor/friend/dog walker coming over would be good. If you can get out on your lunch break, way better.

 

[Baxter'smybaby]

can you shorten your work day for a week or two to get a better handle on his needs and establishing habits that will work for you? Puppies really need someone around, and it takes time for them to mature physically as well as comprehend your expectations.

 

[Saje]

Good for you for wanting to work with him! I'm also glad that you have people who are willing to help. Maybe you can ask a stay at home mom to come and walk the pup once (or twice would be better!) Maybe a high school student on their lunch break? A neighbour? someone would be great. On days that it doesn't work out I'd find a reputable day care. It'll be good socialization for him too and he'll have loads of fun. As long as he gets breaks during the day the crate should be fine and once he gets the concept you'll be able to give him more freedoms. Maybe graduate to the puppy pen in case he gets destructive

Also, you'll want to start teaching him a 'go potty' command by taking him out and rewarding him when he goes. Pick a phrase like 'go potty' and say it when he is finishing. Then reward him with loads of love and treats. He'll catch on quickly.

 

[squirtsmom]

Good advice. Be consistent. By the way, I can't go from 9-5 without a potty break, lol.

 

[Dog Diggler]

Hope you don't give up on the little one.. maybe you should try some faster housebreaking method if you don't feel you got enough time..