If you will be buying or adopting a new puppy, you will need to focus on housebreaking. It is the first training session you will have with your pet. You will need extra patience if your dog is younger than 12 weeks of age, because it will be unable to control its bladder and bowel. Housebreaking may take a few months, so be patient and consistent. Set a schedule. Try to wake up at the same time each morning and take your puppy outside immediately. Further, feed him or her at the same times each day. After eating, take the dog outside immediately.

During the day, observe the behavior of your dog. If he or she sniffs, paces, and circles around the house, it may mean that it is bathroom time. Thus, take him or her outside as soon as possible. If you see your dog eliminating indoors, say "no" firmly and accompany him or her outside to finish. Always praise your dog after proper elimination outside. Never hit your pet when accidents occur. If you see an accident in the house, but did not see your puppy in action, do not punish him or her as this will only cause confusion. The puppy will not be able to make the association between the behavior and the delayed punishment.

While housebreaking, pick a phrase or word like "potty" or "do business" as a command for the process. Take your pet to the same area and say this word. If your dog will be alone for some time, keep him or her in a crate to avoid accidents in the house. Your puppy will not want to create a mess in his or her own area. Do not keep your puppy in the crate for more than 4-6 hours, or he may have no choice than to eliminate in there. If you are away from the house for work, ask someone else to let your puppy out if you will be unable to come home during your lunch hour.

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