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Friday, August 29, 2008
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How to Housebreak a Bichon Frise

By Kathleen Fuller
 
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Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

  • Dog crate (a small one while the dog is a puppy, medium-sized when she is an adult)
  • Leash
  • Doggy door (optional)
  • Step 1:
    Start crating your Bichon as soon as possible. Put him in the crate when you aren't home or any time you can't watch him, such as when you're asleep. If Bichons, especially puppies, are left unsupervised they will do their business anywhere in the house. However, when they are in a crate they are less likely to soil.
  • Step 2:
    Take your Bichon out frequently when you are home. Even if you have a fenced in backyard, take her outside on the leash. Frequently means every half-hour to an hour. You can increase the time between outside visits once she gets the hang of housebreaking.
  • Step 3:
    Always go out the same door. Get your Bichon in the habit of knowing which door leads to his bathroom.
  • Step 4:
    Give her time to walk around and sniff the ground until she's ready to go.
  • Step 5:
    Reward him as soon as he uses the bathroom outside. Pet him and tell him what a good boy he is. Make a big deal out of it. You can also offer a small dog treat as a reward.
  • Step 6:
    Control her water and food. Don't leave food available for her to snack on. Feed her twice a day on a schedule, and give her water three times a day. If she seems extremely thirsty then increase the amount of water you give her.
  • Step 7:
    Take him outside 20 to 30 minutes after eating. Don't wait any longer or he'll do his business inside.
  • Step 8:
    After a couple months of successful training on the leash, progress to using a doggie door or letting your Bichon out into the yard without the leash.

Tips & Warnings

  • Housebreaking a Bichon is difficult, but worth it. They are loveable, fun dogs and terrific companions.
  • Expect mistakes. Even if your Bichon has been a straight-A housebreaking student, don't be surprised if he makes a mistake, or even regresses for a short while. Continue with consistency and praise.
  • Successfully housebreaking your Bichon takes a lot of time and patience. If you are unable to invest this kind of time, then this isn't the right breed for you.

Photo/Video Credit

5 Star Dog
How to Housebreak a Bichon Frise Provided by eHow.com