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Potty training your Basset Hound can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and consistency, it can be a quick and successful process. Knowing the signs that your dog needs to go potty and starting the training at the right age are just a few factors that can contribute to success. In this article, we will reveal seven secrets to help you quickly potty train your Basset Hound. By following these tips, you can save yourself time, frustration, and a lot of messes. Whether you have a puppy or an adult Basset Hound, these techniques can work for any age.
Note: While the tips below should be very helpful for potty training your Basset Hound, you may consider seeking the help of a professional online dog training course such as SpiritDog or K9 Training Institute, two of our favorite training resources for potty training.
1. Start Potty Training Your Basset Hound Early and Be Consistent
The sooner you begin potty training your Basset Hound, the better. Puppies can start learning as early as eight weeks old, and it’s easier for them to pick up good habits at this young age. Consistency is also crucial. Choose a designated potty spot outdoors and always bring your Basset Hound to that same area. Stick to a routine, and take them out frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Your dog will associate the spot with going potty, and the consistent schedule will help reinforce the behavior.
2. Give Your Basset Hound Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an effective training method that rewards good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. When your Basset Hound successfully goes potty outside, offer praise, treats, or playtime as a reward. This will help your dog associate going to the bathroom outside with positive experiences, making them more likely to repeat the behavior. Make sure to reward them immediately after they finish, as dogs have a short memory and may not connect the reward with the action if there’s a delay.
3. Monitor Your Basset Hound’s Behavior
Pay attention to your Basset Hound’s body language and habits, as they can give you clues when they need to go. Common signs include sniffing, circling, whining, or scratching at the door. If you notice any of these behaviors, take your dog outside immediately. In time, you’ll be able to anticipate your dog’s needs, preventing accidents before they happen.
RELATED: Need to potty train your Basset Hound quickly? Try this affordable online course
4. Confine Your Basset Hound to a Small Area
When you’re not able to supervise your Basset Hound, confine them to a small, designated area or crate. Dogs are naturally clean animals and don’t like to soil their living space. By limiting their space, you encourage them to hold it until they can go outside. Make sure the crate is large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another.
5. Gradually Increase Your Basset Hound’s Freedom
As your Basset Hound becomes more reliable in their potty training, you can gradually increase their freedom in the house. Start by allowing them access to one additional room, and monitor their behavior closely. If they continue to have accidents, return to the smaller confinement area and try again later. Gradually expanding their space will help them learn to hold it until they’re outside, even when they’re not in a confined area.
6. Try Using Potty Bells
Potty bells can be a useful tool to let your Basset Hound know they are ready to be taken outside to the bathroom. Teach your Basset Hound to ring the bell with their paw or nose before exiting the door that leads to their potty area. There are many types of potty bells available on Amazon, such as this:
7. Be Patient with Your Basset Hound and Stay Positive
Potty training can be a frustrating process, but it’s essential to stay patient and maintain a positive attitude. Dogs can sense your emotions, and if you’re stressed or angry, it can hinder their progress. Remember that accidents will happen, but don’t punish your Basset Hound for them. Instead, clean up the mess thoroughly to remove any lingering odors that may encourage your dog to eliminate in the same spot again. If you find yourself getting frustrated, take a step back and remind yourself that consistency, patience, and positivity are key.
8. Try an Online Dog Potty Training Course
If you’ve tried everything and your Basset Hound is still having accidents or showing no progress, it may be time to consult a professional dog trainer.
Our 2 favorite online courses are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Mastering Potty Training” Course
This affordable course uses science based and “fear free” tactics to potty train your Basset Hound quickly. You’re allowed to ask the trainer unlimited questions and it comes with a 60 day money back guarantee.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just a potty training course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions About Housebreaking a Basset Hound
How do I know when my Basset Hound needs to go potty?
Signs that a Basset Hound needs to go potty include restlessness, sniffing around, circling, whining, and scratching at the door.
At what age should I begin potty training a Basset Hound puppy?
Basset Hound puppies can begin potty training as early as 8 weeks old. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and patience are key in potty training any puppy, including Basset Hounds.
How can I potty train an adult Basset Hound?
Potty training an adult Basset Hound may require some patience and consistency, especially if they have not been properly trained before. Start with a schedule, rewards for good behavior, and supervise them closely.
How long does it take to potty train a Basset Hound puppy?
The time it takes to potty train a Basset Hound puppy varies depending on the individual puppy’s personality and learning ability, as well as consistency and training techniques. Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months.
How often should I take my Basset Hound outside for potty breaks?
Basset Hounds may need to go potty every 2-4 hours, depending on their age, activity level, and diet. Consistent potty breaks and positive reinforcement will help establish good potty habits.
How should I potty train my Basset Hound in an apartment if I don’t have a yard?
If you live in an apartment and don’t have a yard, you can still potty train your Basset Hound using a designated indoor potty area or taking them outside for regular walks. Consistency and rewards for good behavior will help establish good potty habits.
What’s the best online training course to potty train a Basset Hound?
Our 2 favorite online courses are:
1. SpiritDog’s “Mastering Potty Training” Course
This affordable course uses science based and “fear free” tactics to potty train your Basset Hound quickly. You’re allowed to ask the trainer unlimited questions and it comes with a 60 day money back guarantee.
2. K9 Training Institute’s “Dog Masterclass”
More than just a potty training course, this more comprehensive training course tackles any behavior problem you might face with your dog.
In conclusion, potty training a Basset Hound requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By using the right techniques and being consistent with the training process, you can successfully potty train your Basset Hound in a short period of time. Remember to keep a watchful eye on your dog and learn their cues for when they need to go outside. Be sure to reward them for good behavior and avoid punishing them for accidents.
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