As a pet owner, one of the essential tasks is to ensure that our fur babies are adequately trained to potty in the right place at the right time. The initial phase of potty training can be a challenging experience for both the pup and owner. After successful training, it can be unsettling to see our fur babies revert to their old habits or not adhere to their former schedule. This change can occur when a pup is going through adolescence.
Adolescence is a critical phase in a pup’s life, commonly occurring between six to ten months old for most breeds. This phase brings about several changes in the pup, from physical to behavioral. Some of the most apparent signs of adolescence are a sudden shift in behavior, disobedience, increased moodiness, among others. One of the most significant challenges pet owners face during this period is potty training their fur babies.
During adolescence, the pup’s bladder is not as strong as an adult dog’s, and they may not have full control over their bladder and bowels. This lack of control makes it challenging to stick to a regular potty routine. The puppy may also forget their potty training commands or start to ignore them. This behavior can cause anxiety and unease for the pet owner.
However, it is important to note that adolescence is a temporary phase that will pass with time. Proper training and reinforcement of potty training commands will ensure that the pup adjusts well to the changes in their bodies and schedules. Pet owners must remain consistent in their training methods and show patience towards their fur baby.
One of the key steps to ensuring successful potty training during adolescence is to remain vigilant towards the pup’s behavior and make necessary adjustments. If a pet owner notices that their fur baby starts having accidents or not adhering to their potty routine, they should re-evaluate their training methods. Reinforcing commands, increasing the frequency of potty breaks, and rewarding good behavior are excellent ways to combat regression during adolescence.
In conclusion, it is normal for adolescent pups to struggle with potty training due to the changes in their bodies and schedules. Pet owners must show patience towards their fur babies during this phase and remain consistent in their training methods. By doing so, owners can successfully navigate the bumps and pitfalls of potty training their adolescent pups, ensuring a happy and healthy bond between pet and owner.