Potty Troubles Dear Trainer, Our new addition to the family (14 weeks old female Boxer ) is a %@#*$&*%!! She talks back when scolded, disobeys & refuses to comply when it comes to house breaking. I understand she is just a puppy, but I'm afraid she's discouraging my family enough to question her ability to be a great second pet, our first is a male Boxer 4 1/2 yrs old. She's crated 5-7 hours a day only because she wont learn to pee & poop outside. Although she has been left out twice & didn't destroy the house but pee'd inside & or poop'd. We were surprised to still have a house upon our return. But, my house stinks sooooooooo bad to me I'm stressed over this issue. So, if you can help please let me know. THANX! Signed: GOT BOXER? Dear Boxer: Congratulations on the new addition to your family. Puppies can be very trying but well worth it. First of all, you need to get on a strict housebreaking schedule. First thing in the morning, go outside and use a leash. Walk quickly outside so there is no chance of urinating on the way. Once you are outside use a potty command (go potty, do your business or what ever else the whole family will agree on saying). Try to go to the same area each time you go out, it is easier for them if they smell where they have been before. Make sure to watch. Once the pup does its business, praise and reward with treat. Young pups should not be left unattended through the housebreaking process. If the pup is not with you, it should be crated or put in a kitchen type area with a baby gate. Also food and water must be monitored. I know you have an older dog so this can be a little difficult for a short time but you should not leave water down. Pup should only have access to water/food when you give it to them and they need to drink lots of water. Most pups urinate about 5 minutes after drinking, so you can time this and get them outside to do their deed. A puppy this age should be fed three times a day, at the same time each day. You will learn your dog's digestive system and know how long your puppy needs to process both food and water. Puppies at this age should not be crated more than four hours. You might have to get a dog walker or friend to let her out these first few months. Also I do not recommend any discipline, puppies need to be taught first, before they can be held responsible. Regarding your odor problem, what are you cleaning with? The only product I know that takes out the enzymes is Natures Miracle (sold in our store). Once the smell is in carpet, etc., your pup will continue to go to those areas, so it is very important to clean well with Natures Miracle. I don't believe pups should have access to the whole house at this young age as there are too many things to chew and get hurt with. Baby gates work great, don't feel bad that pup isn't with your older dog. He might need a break too. Start slow with leaving pup out, an hour max at first. Then build up time as pup shows she is responsible enough to be left out. Good luck and hope this helps. Keep me posted. Best regards, Lisa Lombardo Bark and Browse

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