Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Puzzle is an 8 month old mini dapple. We got him two months ago, so he was older puppy. Initially, I didn't want to crate train him because I just thought the whole idea was cruel. He was doing good, he'd pee on his potty pad (but not poop). But then he stopped and only did it sometimes. So my dad brought home a crate the other day, and we've been trying it this way. He'll pee sometimes when we take him out but he'll never poop, he'll only poop inside on the carpet. He doesn't go to the bathroom at all in his crate. So my question is... does anyone have any advice on what I should do or be doing here? He seems hard to train. He's not neutered, and we're not planning on neutering him. This is my first puppy, so any advice would me great!!

You are on the right track with the crate for potty training. You just have to be a bit more patient and clear with your puppy.

Most dogs/puppies have to eliminate about 30 minutes after eating. So, let your puppy eat, possibly put back in the crate for a bit of time and then take the puppy outside to relieve himself. When he does, whoop it up and celebrate and give tons of treats. He's done what you want.

For accidents in the house, don't make a big deal about it. You do not want to make your puppy nervous about going in front of you. You want to create a relaxed atmosphere that is happy.

Neutering does help with housebreaking. You may want to re-evaluate your descision about neutering unless you have intentions of showing your dog in conformation. There really are many medical and behavioral issues that can be controlled with neutering.

Good luck with your puppy. Be patient and there are a few posts in the "Dog Training/Obedience" and "Behavioral/Emotional" sections of this forum that discuss these issues as well.
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Chelle and the rest of the crew including, but not limited to Kita and Taiko (the shiba inu wrestle maniacs), Adi (reserved and dignified tabby cat), and all 28 reptiles

Crate training is incredibly helpful since dogs generally won't "potty" in their crates. In addition to what Chelle suggested (taking your pup out about 30 minutes after eating), I'd do the same first thing in the morning. If you can, go for a walk until your dog poops, and then--as Chelle suggested--praise, praise, praise. My dog won't poop at all in the yard; she will only do it on walks.

Good luck!

>>Puzzle is an 8 month old mini dapple. We got him two months ago, so he was older puppy. Initially, I didn't want to crate train him because I just thought the whole idea was cruel. He was doing good, he'd pee on his potty pad (but not poop). But then he stopped and only did it sometimes. So my dad brought home a crate the other day, and we've been trying it this way. He'll pee sometimes when we take him out but he'll never poop, he'll only poop inside on the carpet. He doesn't go to the bathroom at all in his crate. So my question is... does anyone have any advice on what I should do or be doing here? He seems hard to train. He's not neutered, and we're not planning on neutering him. This is my first puppy, so any advice would me great!!

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It is unlikely you will ever be able to housetrain the dog if you do not neuter him. He will need to be confined to an area rather than the run of the house.
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Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series articles at http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=SRC&S=1&SourceID=47