House training is one of the first things you’ll need to teach your new collie puppy. The key here is to get into a good routine and reward the puppy for its success .
All puppies learn at different paces. Some will pick up toilet training quickly while others take a little time. Just remember there al going to be accidents to start with.
Basic routine
- Morning Routine: Take your puppy out for a toilet break first thing every morning. Encourage them to poo and wee outside. Initially, using a lead can help prevent them from getting distracted by exploring. It’s also beneficial to use a specific word or phrase, like “hurry up” or “toilet,” that your puppy can associate with going to the loo.
- Daytime Breaks: Take your puppy out every couple of hours during the day. Remember, puppies have small bladders and aren’t used to holding it in. As they grow older, they’ll be able to hold it longer and will need fewer toilet breaks.
- After Meals: Give your puppy a toilet break shortly after each meal, as they’ll likely need to poo soon after eating. It’s also a good idea to take them outside when they wake up.
- During Play: Exciting play sessions can make your puppy need the loo. Take them outside immediately after playing or give them a break halfway through
Rewarding Your Puppy: When your puppy goes to the toilet outside, give them lots of praise and a high-value reward, like a healthy big snack. This positive reinforcement lets your puppy know you’re pleased with them for going outside. They’ll be more likely to repeat this behaviour to earn more praise and treats.
Handling Accidents: Never punish your puppy for having an accident inside the house. Remember It’s not their fault; they simply haven’t had enough opportunities to go outside. Clean the area and use the incident as a learning experience for you both to try again.
Recognizing Signs: Learn to recognize the signs that your puppy needs to go to the toilet, such as circling and sniffing the floor. When you see these cues, take them outside and praise them for going to the toilet in the right place.