How to Housebreak a Bullmastiff

The key to housebreaking a bullmastiff is consistency and confinement. Bullmastiffs are large dogs that have a ready-to-please temperament and a willing affection for their owners. It is because of this sweet, loving nature that, despite their intimidating size, bullmastiffs make popular family dogs. Bullmastiffs are also an extremely intelligent breed, so begin the housebreaking process when they are puppies.

Things You'll Need

  • Crate
  • Collar
  • Leash
  • Toys
  • Blankets
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a crate for your bullmastiff puppy. The crate will be used for confinement when family members are not home and for sleeping when you are unable to supervise it. Buy a crate that is large enough to accommodate his growing size for the next few months but small enough that it feels secure.

    • 2

      Purchase a couple soft blankets and a variety of toys and place them in the crate. Your puppy will associate the crate with fun toys and comfort, making it easier for it to use the crate. Leave your puppy in the crate for an hour then take it outside. Typically, a puppy can hold it for the same number of hours as itshis age in months. This holds true until you reach 10 hours.

    • 3

      Invest in a secure collar that fits the dog snugly. Make sure it is not too tight but secure enough that it will not slip off the dog's neck. Purchase a leash that is relatively short because you want to keep your puppy close to you when you are walking and when you take it outside to relieve itself. Do this at least once an hour. Take a potty break after naps or when it wakes up, after every meal or when it comes out of the crate.

    • 4

      Take your dog on long walks. It will get used to going to the bathroom outdoors and every time your dog goes, give it a treat. Shower it with lots of loud praises because puppies like dramatic scenes. Your puppy will know it pleased you and will want to do it again.

    • 5

      Bring your bullmastiff outside often. It may have to go the bathroom or not. If not, it is still a large dog that needs plenty of exercise, which will lead to easier training in the long run.

    • 6

      Do not punish your bullmastiff if it goes in the crate. Clean up the mess and take it outside as normal.

    • 7

      Keep taking your bullmastiff outside regularly. Eventually, it will ask you on his own by nudging you, barking or scratching the door. While housebreaking, a bullmastiff may take a few months, the process will be easier if you are consistent. A bullmastiff is generally housebroken by the time it reaches 9 to 12 months old.