The latest feature story from the Carpet and Rug Institute to hit the internet and newspapers offers helpful advice for dog lovers facing the challenge of a new puppy at home: how to get through housetraining while preserving the beauty and cleanliness of their carpet. Titled, House-training Your Puppy: Tips for keeping your dog behaved and your home clean, the article features information from Georgia-based veterinarian Dr. Chris Stearns and professional dog behaviorist Stephanie Daughtrey. The experts advise owners to be patient and stay upbeat and, armed with a little knowledge and the right cleaning products, the process with go a lot easier.
- 1. Know potty triggers
Triggers are typically feelings of excitement, like when visitors arrive, and particular times of day, like after he wakes up or right before bed. Puppies will need to go after eating and/or drinking – usually within 15 minutes.
- 2. Establish a routine
Find a designated “potty patch” outdoors so your dog can associate that space with doing his business. Start by leash walking the pup to that spot so he can focus before spending any time playing.
Consider keeping him on a leash inside too. If he starts to squat to urinate, clap or make a sharp sound that will stop him in the act. You can transfer him outside to finish and praise him there.
Give them a treat when they go potty outside – that reinforces the good behavior right then and there. Praise them with a happy tone of voice.
- 3. Avoid indoor accidents
Puppy will need to go outside every one or two hours. It’s the owner’s responsibility to provide plenty of time outdoors, otherwise if left unattended for extended periods; a puppy will find a place to piddle.
Close exists to other rooms with doors or baby gates so puppy can’t explore the unused parts of the house.
- 4. Clean messes immediately
It’s important to remove both the stain and the odor so puppy won’t use the spot as a scent marker for future accidents. Start by blotting or scooping to remove as much solids or liquids as possible. Then treat the mess with a pet stain and odor remover that has the Carpet and Rug Institute Seal of Approval. Each certified product that features the national trade association’s seal goes through rigorous testing in an independent laboratory, so you can be confident you’re treating the stain, removing the odors, and protecting the integrity of your carpet.
If your carpet becomes deeply soiled from multiple accidents and dirty little puppy paws, you may want to consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner. For those with allergies, frequent vacuuming and regularly-scheduled cleaning will remove virtually all embedded allergens and pet dander. Certified CRI Seal of Approval service providers have the experience needed to treat stains, remove odors and leave carpet looking like new.
- 5. Spay or neuter
Unneutered dogs typically urinate more in the house as an action of marking their territory, so it’s something every caring pet parent should consider. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions for the right time to spay or neuter your dog.
And enjoy your new puppy!