Crate training puppies, how long does it take?
i'm getting a bichon frise pup next week, i'm going to crate train her. For the first week there will be someone in all day everyday to watch her and we are going to be very persistent with her training. I just wondered how long you think it will take for her to be house trained using this method? and how long did it take your dog to be trained this way? also any tips on training her would be very helpful! thanks x
Dogs can take even longer than that- my basset took almost 7-8 months before she could "hold it" longer than a few hours. It just takes them time to learn. It's ok for you to use a small crate for the first few months for training, and then a large crate with play space if you have to leave her at home longer than a few hours for work and such.
The crate training helps teach more than just potty training- it teaches about whining, and teaches the dog it's ok to be alone.
It's also important to closely monitor their food/water intake- she's gonna have to go pretty quick after she eats or drinks. It won't take long for you to learn her specific habits, every dog is different. For a long time, she's gonna pee and poo 1,0000 times per day. Just don't get angry with her, even when she makes mistakes. She's gonna make a lot of them. it may help to get a large rug, and always play with her on that rug. Then, if she pees on it a ton (she will) you can throw the rug out and spare your carpet.
depending upon consistancy of taking the pup out,it should only take around 1 1/2 to 2 wks. to train,but when taking out,don't make the mistake of letting it play outside after doing its job,or it will get confused about why you're putting it out.Pup should be taken out around every two to three hours.
Taught properly, a pup can get the idea of housebreaking in less than a week but it won't have physical control of its urine and bowels before the age of 4 months.
