A beagle puppy is a smart, naturally curious and happy-go-lucky animal that will provide you and your family with plenty of joy. But, as with any puppy, beagle pups require house training. Over time your pup will become better at showing you when it needs to go to the bathroom. However, it is important to spend time house training your beagle so that it becomes very good at doing so.
Things You'll Need
- Crate
- Treats
Instructions
Purchase a medium to large-sized crate before you bring your new beagle home (when full grown, your beagle will weigh anywhere from 15 to 30 pounds). It's important to keep your puppy in the crate when nobody is at home. This will prevent your pup from finding a "potty place" in your house. After all, beagles are very inquisitive creatures who love to roam.
Choose a place outside your house that will serve as the spot for your pup to relieve itself. Always go to this spot when taking your beagle pup out. Beagles are very smart animals and will remember the spot you have chosen after only a few times.
Choose a command that you will use when it's time for your beagle to go to the bathroom. This command should be spoken firmly, but gently. Consistency is key, as beagles tend to be stubborn. As a result, you must be persistent and patient, especially when giving commands.
Always take your puppy outside in the morning, immediately after a meal and before bed time. These are the common times for any dog to go to the bathroom. If you keep the times consistent, your beagle pup will eventually learn when it's time to go.
Reward your beagle with praise and a small treat when it uses the bathroom in the correct spot. Beagles respond well to positive reinforcement and are more likely to continue good behavior when rewarded. Contrarily, they do not respond well to harsh actions.
Take the beagle pup back inside and put it in its crate if it doesn't go to the bathroom. Wait for five to 10 minutes and take it outside again.
After approximately three months, most beagle puppies learn to scratch at the door when they need to relieve themselves. Take them out as soon as they begin doing this.
If your beagle relieves itself inside your home, scold it with a stern "Bad puppy." Only do this if you catch it in the act and it didn't go to the door first. Remember, beagles learn best from positive reinforcement, not harsh punishment.