Most pet owners would associate the methods and time on how to housetrain your dog or puppy with fussy and difficult process. Yes, the training may need time, energy, and efforts but it doesn't have to be overly complicated or overwhelming. In fact, the house training session can create a stronger bond between you and your pets; establishing your role as the owner and the master while getting to know their routine and habits. Most pet owners have this bizarre concept in mind that such housebreaking process will be fast and quick. In reality, it is not that simple. You need to remember that your dogs or puppies are just another living creature that needs to understand their duties and responsibilities. They aren't machines or robots that can be easily switched or changed with the flick of your fingers anytime you please it. Don't expect miraculous methods or processes because such thing doesn't exist. Yes, you will have to be patient. And yes, you will have to invest a pretty long time to do it. But then again, if you value your furry friends as a companion and you love them as a family member, won't you do anything to make them independent and solid on their own? Different Conditions, Different Methods You need to understand that the concept of housebreaking is basically the same: it is about discipline and how you want your pets to be able to take care of themselves well. So, is it different for the housebreaking system for the young puppies and the old one (provided that you may take home one from the shelters or such thing alike)? Not really, actually. Even if the dogs are mature enough and yet they don't really know how to properly relieve themselves, you can teach them the proper way and change their habits again from the very basic ground. Yes, it will take time. Yes, it may not be successful right away. But if you are consistent and persistent, you should be able to master the ways of how to housetrain your dog or puppy efficiently. The Time Frame It is also important to consider the age of the puppies or the dogs. The ideal age is when they are still 16 to 18 weeks. They are old enough to understand instructions and orders. With several repetitions and commitment, they should be able to follow your directions just fine. Expect yourself to spend at least 6 months for the training to finally show a real result. In some cases, you may have to spend a year to get the satisfying outcome. Again, it does take time and patience but it will be worthy in the longer run. Understand Their Nature Keep in mind that dogs are basically just the same as humans. They won't soil the place they live, sleep, or eat. They won't defecate or pee on the place where they may lie or play. That's why it is a good idea to start with the crate training. Although a lot of dog lovers view crate training as something horrible or tarrying, you should admit that housebreaking will be easier with this method. After all, there is no one being harmed in this technique. You can see that this method can help you a lot while your dogs can learn about the proper housebreaking without harming themselves either. They need to understand the concept of self control and how to properly convey the message to the owners. So, how to housetrain your dog or puppy with the crate? It should have the right size: it shouldn't be too small or too big either. It should be accommodative enough for the dogs to sleep, lie, move around a bit, or stand comfortably. It shouldn't be too big as it will create a chance for them to defecate or pee on the corners. By restricting the space, you basically give them a fewer options so they will have to communicate with you when they want to go. Setting up the Schedule Housebreaking is related to the feeding schedule. You need to understand that most dogs' digestive system is pretty fast. It will come and go right away. When you feed them, they would want to defecate right away in 5 o 30 minutes, so you should observe and monitor your dog's condition and habit. The smaller they are, the faster they will be. Often times, the doll puppies have a faster time when compared to the bigger watch dogs. But then again, different dogs have different conditions so it is wise and best to understand your dog's condition and situation. Keep in mind that you should also have a certain spot where your dogs can relieve themselves. In the early stage of the training, show them the spot. The smell of their urine or feces will be the trigger to make them feel familiar with the place. The next time they want to relieve themselves, they will use the smell. That's why you should choose a spot where minimum cleaning is needed. Choosing your front porch for the spot, for instance, is definitely not a wise (or clever) idea. The Importance of Energy In learning the proper way of how to housetrain your dog or puppy, you should also remember about your energy. It will affect your dogs and their psychology. When you are nervous or edgy, they will know. When you are inpatient, they will know too. Avoid conversation, especially with the squeaky and high tone. It is a sign that you are nervous and your dogs can pick it up. Give them orders in short sentences and firm tone. Remember that your dogs can be stressed too. Being consistent is important. It is one of the methods that you should implement and practice. Sure, sometimes you may be bored and you want to quit. But if you don't start it now, the chaos will run for a longer period of time – and you definitely don't want to deal with poop or gross matters later on. So, learn how to housetrain your dog or puppy properly, invest your time and patience, and you should be good on your own.