Puggle Training: Housetraining Older Dogs

Just like their ancestors, the pug and the beagle, puggles can make great household pets only if they are provided with appropriate puggle training. The pug, known for being strong-willed and the beagle, bred for long chase are the factors that can make training somewhat difficult hence it is very important that training should start at an early age. But how about the older ones? Are the older puggles one of the proofs that indeed you can't teach old dogs with new tricks?

Definitely not! Old age cannot stop anyone, including dogs from learning new things. As long as the strategy used is appropriate not just for their age but more importantly for their physical capabilities, there is no reason for older puggles to fail the training.

If you are planning to adopt an older puggle from the shelter or if you are going to inherit one from a relative or friend, one of the first things you need to find out is if he is housetrained or not. If not, then housetraining should start as early as possible to prevent him from developing bad habits like urinating and defecating inside the house.

Housetraining an older puggle is actually easier than housetraining a puppy since puppies do not have full control of their bowel and bladder. In other words, they cannot hold it until they are around four months of age. Before puggle training starts, it is a good idea to have your pet checked for infections or other health problems that could affect his urinating or defecating. Then set up a meal plan or schedule, choosing only high quality dog foods to prevent stomach upset and eventually diarrhea. Instead of leaving out the food for him all day, feed him in the morning and evening and if possible during lunchtime. Take him outside after eating and drinking for dogs relieve themselves minutes after meals. When doing so, make sure to take him to the same area only. Reward him with treats or praise right after relieving but do not take him inside immediately for he might figure out that the fun ends right after eliminating. Allow him to play for a few minutes to associate the deed with something fun. When you follow this regime all the time, he will be able to get used to it thus will only eliminate when outside.

When you catch him in the act of eliminating in the area other than that you specified, distract him, take him outside at once and let him finish there. Reward him with treats or praise after doing his business.

If he has not eliminated after ten minutes or so, take him inside and wait for another ten minutes before you take him out again. If still unsuccessful, bring him inside and wait for the next potty break.

During puggle training, whether you are housebreaking or training your pet with obedience commands, one of the most important things you must remember is to avoid physical punishment for it can only do more harm than good. Hitting him or rubbing his nose on his poop or pee can potentially cause fear and aggression.

Kim Holtby is a professional dog walker who has gathered a lot of information about puggle training. Her site aims to help owners achieve successful puggle training.