Afghan Hound Care and Training - Housebreaking

Consistency is the key. Take the puppy out when he/she first wakes up and immediately after eating. When they do the expected function, praise the animal and praise them plentifully. Use the dogs name and say good as the animal does its business. Repeat the word for the action the dog is doing and it will associate the action with the word and may do its business on command later (sure helps at dog shows and those cold mornings). 


When he/she makes a mistake in the house, DO NOT RUB ITS NOSE IN IT but use your voice and speak with harsh intonations. Do not use the dogs name but say "BAD DOG" or something similar and immediately take him/her outside to the designated area. If your puppy makes a mistake and you do not catch him/her at the time, it does little good to express anger as the pup, like a child will not understand why you are upset. 


Later as the dog learns the rules of the house, the animal will know what it has done wrong, remember, a puppy like a baby lacks muscle control over its bladder. You can learn to read signals or "DOG TALK." Circling, whining or other little signals will tell you, "I'VE GOT TO GO TO THE BATHROOM." Cut off the drinking water after 1800 hours or so and take him/her out just prior to bedtime. These little hints may help you enjoy a dry, clean floor.