(An article adapted from the United Kennel Club web site)

Housebreaking your dog need not be a daunting task. Just follow a few simple rules and you’ll have the situation under control in no time.

The best tool in housebreaking a dog is a crate. Yes, a crate. Confining a young dog for a short time when you’re away is the best way to ensure that no mistakes are made in the home. Give the dog a comfortable spot to relax, a chewy toy and water and he’ll be comfortable spending time in the crate. It’s not cruel by any means. Dogs, like humans, appreciate a spot where they can relax and feel safe and protected. Ancient dogs would seek out caves where they felt safe from predators; your dog still has that instinct.

Don’t expect young dogs or dogs first being housebroken to go for long periods without being walked and given a chance to do their “business.” It’s better to walk them a little more frequently at first to avoid any accidents that to keep them crated so long that they do make a mistake.

When taking them for a walk, don’t play with them. This will distract the dog from the purpose of the walk and they’ll more likely make a mistake in the house. Walk the dog to the same spot every day and then stop, allowing them to sniff the ground. Once they’ve done what you set out to do, tell them “Good dog” over and over. By connecting the deed with the praise “Good dog!” you can then tell them good dog when you want them to be a good dog and they’ll start to figure out what the whole process is about. Don’t give them any food as a reward! If they think the walk ends with food, they’ll be looking for food from the minute they set foot outdoors and won’t understand the true purpose of the walk.

Remember to walk the young dog first thing in the morning and last thing before going to bed. Expecting a young dog to wait while the house starts bustling with action is unfair and will result in a mistake. Just use some common sense and you’ll be accident-free in no time.