How to Housebreak a Schnauzer

Schnauzers are a very intelligent and happy breed of dog that is usually easy to train. When housebreaking a dog you must be patience and calm, yet firm. Be consistent while training your dog so they will understand what is expected of them each time. Schnauzers, like all dogs, want to please. They just need the gentle guidance that will help them to learn what is expected of them.

Things You'll Need

  • Feeding schedule
  • Designated area for elimination
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Instructions

  1. Stick to a Schedule

    • 1

      Feed your schnauzer at the same time each day. Dogs usually need to eliminate within 30 minutes of eating. If the dog is fed on schedule, it's easy to time when he needs to go out. This will also teach the dog where to go when it feels the need to eliminate - outside. Once your schnauzer learns this, they will begin to give you signals when they need to out. This could be going to the door, circling or simply barking.

    • 2

      Take your schnauzer out to a place you've chosen specifically for your dog to eliminate. Designating a place for your dog to do its business will let your schnauzer know what is expected of it when you take it to that spot.

    • 3

      Give the dog a command for going to the bathroom. "Potty" or "Park" would be good choices. When you take your dog to the designated spot repeat your command with the dog's name until the dog eliminates. Wait patiently while your schnauzer looks around for a place to go. This will give it a chance to relax and go. If you rush, your dog may not understand and focus more on you than what it was brought out to do.

    • 4

      Praise your dog when it eliminates in the proper place. This will reinforce the behavior and let your schnauzer know that when it eliminates in the designated spot that it's being good. Telling your dog "good job" when he follows your command will also let it understand what the word means. Schnauzers are an extremely intelligent breed and with repetition should catch on quickly.