Several years ago an influenza virus mysteriously jumped from horses to canines (or so the scientific community believes) It was just announced that there is a new outbreak of “dog flu”. KCBS in Los Angeles stated that there are outbreaks in 30 states, most on the east coast.

Teaching your healthy puppy to “not” potty in the house may be easier than you think.

Factors to consider when training:

Clean of all interior surfaces where your dog has had an “accident”. Use an enzymatic cleaner made specifically for use with dogs. Your usual cleaner will not work, but here are many products on the market.

2. Record pup’s food & water intake.

Tracking your dog’s food and water intake along with his elimination will help you predict his behavior better.

3. Keep a record of puppy’s potty schedule and puppy’s behavior before he goes potty

If you watch your dog carefully, you may notice that he exhibits certain behaviors before going to the bathroom. Immediately take your dog to the appropriate area when you see the signs.

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4. Reinforce Appropriate Behavior.

When you pup goes potty in the area that you have designated for him, reward, reward, reward. Lots of love and maybe a training treat.

Do not scold or reprimand for unacceptable behavior. That can cause the existing problem behavior to become worse. I remember when the school of thought was: “Rub your dog’s nose in the poop or pee” NEVER do that.

Happy Training!

Great Info from Dr. Jon:

“It’s important to keep comprehensive records for your dog, just as you do for other family members. Medical and licensing records as well as adoption documents and breeding papers belong in these files. Key information about your dog should also be included in an emergency kit with other essential family papers. If there is a natural disaster, if your pet is missing or if something should happen to you, your dog’s records are invaluable. You might also need to provide this information to pet sitters, boarding kennels or a new veterinarian. If you will be traveling with your dog, plan on taking his records along with you, especially if you will be traveling to a foreign country. Many countries have strict policies that require an extensive history of your pet’s background and health.What should you have in your dog’s information kit?

1. IN a folder: You should keep a copy of your dog’s purchase papers or adoption contract, breeding contract, bill of sale, vaccine and parasite control records, veterinary insurance record, veterinary receipts, rabies tag information and dog license. Include photos from various angles that clearly show coat type and coloring, close-ups of the face and any exceptional physical characteristics. In the past few years, shelters in disaster areas have begun posting lost and found pet pictures on the Internet.

2. ON your dog. If disaster strikes and a dog is separated from his owner, it’s surprising how difficult it can be to reunite them. Your dog should have a collar tag that states the dog’s name, your name, your phone number and your city of residence. Your address also is recommended.

3. Microchip. Have a microchip implanted in your dog for added protection. Use the brand that is most widely used in your area. If your dog loses his collar, this is a good way to ensure that you can still be reunited with your pet.”