3 Tips for Housebreaking an Adult Dog

Housebreaking an adult dog can prove more difficult than housebreaking a puppy because you’ll have to break your dog’s potentially years-old habit. Still, it’s worth the effort, as keeping your dog from relieving herself inside will save you the trouble of disinfecting the stains and make your apartment a healthier place to live.

1 – Stick to a Schedule

Housebreaking an adult dog is impossible unless you get your dog on a regular toilet schedule. Your dog must get used to a daily routine in which she’s supposed to relieve herself at the same time each day. You should bring your dog out to relieve herself at least four to six times a day, especially after eating. The first toilet time should be early in the morning, somewhere between 5 and 7 a.m. Subsequent breaks should occur every two to four hours. This means that you or someone you trust must return to your apartment during the day to take her out, even if you’re busy with work or school.

Every time you take your dog for a walk, bring her to the spot outdoors where you want her to relive herself. Repeat this after the walk as well.

2 – Praise and Reward Your Dog

When housebreaking an adult dog, expressing your joy when your dog takes the necessary steps to going to the bathroom outdoors is more important than expressing your unhappiness at accidents. Because your dog is so used to going indoors, she may even be afraid to step outside on the grass. You must gently encourage her in a soothing voice to follow you outdoors with a gentle tug on her leash. When she steps outside, say “good girl” in a sweet tone and pet her lovingly. Give her a treat. You can even place the treat on the grass before she comes out and ask her to go get it.

Repeat the praise and treat rewards once your dog has relieved herself outdoors, but don’t forget to reward her every step of the way, even if she just succeeds in standing on the grass for a bit without relieving herself the first few days.

3 – Be Firm But Not Angry

Housebreaking an adult dog can take a while and you could easily become frustrated. Don’t give your dog mixed signals. It’s important that you remain consistent in what you expect from your dog. If you catch her in the act of going to the bathroom indoors, clearly say “no” in a low tone (do not shout or say her name when angry). Immediately take her outdoors so she can finish there while she still has the inclination.

If you find waste after the fact, just clean it up. Never rub your dog’s nose in it or yell at her after it’s too late to stop her. She won’t understand what has made you upset and will just become frightened of you. Instead, work on establishing the routine and she will naturally begin going outside.

The most important piece of advice for housebreaking an adult dog is to never give up. It may take days—or even weeks—before your dog responds positively and indoor accidents become few and far between. You must remain consistent in your commands and discipline to the dog or she’ll grow confused.