AboutKristen Cabe Expertise I can answer training questions, both basic and advanced, and am familiar with almost all of the methods and tools used. I am not closed-minded and do not think that one method and one tool is the best/only way to train. I answer questions with consideration to both the owner`s and the dog`s needs and abilities. I am also very knowledgeable about canine nutrition.
IF YOU HAVE A HOUSETRAINING QUESTION, PLEASE go to my web page on housetraining, located at http://housetraining.angelfire.com. If you try the suggestions there, and are still having problems, let me know.
Experience I have been training for more than five years, and studying canine nutrition for more than six years. I have taken three online veterinary assistant classes given by the local community college, and received final grades in the high 90's for all three.
Expert: Kristen Cabe Date: 7/17/2008 Subject: Housetraining Toy Breed
Question I have a male, 13 week, 2.5 pound maltipoo that I brought home at 9 weeks. I had him neutered last week by a pediatric vet recommended by the breeder to do it young as it is less trauma. Surgery went well and the puppy is fine. I am very much an A type personality and have been doing everything with the crate training as all of my research and books have indicated. Consistent schedule everyday, same place for elimination, getting up every three hours the first few weeks duringthe night, etc. Everything was going well and for the most part my puppy knew exactly what to do when we got outside and would go right away My problem is my puppy never lets me know when he has to go out. I read that with toy breeds this is a problem because people carry them to the elimination spot. I realized today that is part of my problem so I started putting him on the leash and having him walk to the door. Perhaps because my house is rather large and it appears overwhelming to a small dog but he refuses to walk to the door with a leash. Twice today he had an accident trying to sit down nd not walk to the door. Of course it was better when I carried him and we didn't have accidents but I want him to understand the concept of signaling me when he has to go out. He sleeps about 6 hours at night without needing to go out so he is learning bladder control. It seems that during the day he doesn't want to walk to the elimination spot.
Answer Let him drag the leash around when he is in the house, so he gets used to it. Use baby gates and/or closed doors to keep him confined to the room you are in, so that you can keep an eye on him, and when you notice him starting to intently sniff around the floor, see if you can get him to follow you to the door (without using the leash). Praise him and then take him outside on the leash. If you miss the initial signs and instead catch him as he is starting to squat, clap your hands or say 'aaht' or do >>something<< to startle him and make him stop what he's doing, then, again, see if you can get him to follow you to the door using a happy tone of voice and body language. Grabbing the leash to get him to the door should be a last resort - you want him to learn to go to the door on his own. Remember to praise him when he does what you want!
