Dealing with repeated accidents inside the house can be frustrating, but it’s important to approach the problem systematically. Whether it’s due to a medical issue or a behavioral hiccup, there are three essential steps to take when your dog keeps peeing indoors.
1. Visit the Vet
Before anything else, make sure to rule out potential medical issues. Many health problems, such as urinary tract infections, kidney disease, or diabetes, can cause dogs to urinate indoors. These conditions can be serious—and even painful—so it’s critical to ensure your pup gets the care they need.
2. Deep Clean Your Floors
Even after addressing the cause of the accidents, lingering urine odors can confuse your dog and lead to repeat behavior. Dogs have an incredibly powerful sense of smell—far stronger than ours—so even faint odors can signal “pee here” to them.
3. Prevent Future Accidents
While working through the issue, it’s crucial to stop the cycle of indoor accidents as much as possible. Every time your dog pees inside, they’re reinforcing a habit that will become harder to break over time.
*Supervise closely and intervene if you catch them in the act.
*Use a crate or puppy gate to limit their access to areas where accidents happen.
*Increase outdoor potty breaks to reduce the chance of accidents.
Patience and persistence are key during this process. By taking these steps, you’ll set your dog up for success and restore harmony to your home.
.
.
.
#seattledogtrainer #seattledogtraining #dogtrainingisfun #dogtrainerlife #dogtrainingtips #seattlepetcare #seattledogboarding #seattledogwalker #seattlepuppysitters #seattlepuppycare #seattledogwalkinging #cosmicpet
House training a dog can test anyone’s patience, especially when accidents keep happening indoors. But there’s one thing you should never do: Punish or scold your dog for having an accident.
Even if it feels like your dog’s behavior is intentional, reacting with anger or frustration can backfire in major ways. Punishment often increases anxiety, which makes accidents more likely—not less. In some cases, scolding may even be harmful if a medical issue or something out of your dog’s control is contributing to the accidents.
Instead, focus on positive reinforcement.
*If you catch your dog in the act, calmly interrupt them with a firm but gentle “no” and take them outside immediately. In some cases, you may need to carefully carry them to their potty spot.
*When they go in the right place, reward them with plenty of treats, praise, and affection.
Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement will build trust and encourage the behavior you want to see. Training is a process, and your calm, supportive approach will go a long way toward creating a happy and well-trained pup!
.
.
.
#seattledogtrainer #seattledogtraining #dogtrainingisfun #dogtrainerlife #dogtrainingtips #seattlepetcare #seattledogboarding #seattledogwalker #seattlepuppysitters #seattlepuppycare #seattledogwalkinging #cosmicpet
If you’ve caught your dog munching on dirt, you’re not alone—many pet owners see this behavior as odd but harmless. However, it’s more serious than it seems. Dirt eating, also known as pica, can pose several dangers to your furry friend’s health.
Here’s why you should take action if your pup has a taste for soil:
1. Choking and Obstruction Risks
A mouthful of dirt isn’t just messy—it can lead to choking or even cause a dangerous blockage in your dog’s digestive system.
2. Exposure to Toxic Substances
The soil your dog snacks on could be contaminated with harmful chemicals such as gasoline, pesticides, fertilizers, or antifreeze.
3. Bacteria and Fungi
Dirt teems with microorganisms. While some are harmless, others—like E. coli or Salmonella—can cause severe infections in dogs.
4. Intestinal Parasites
Soil-dwelling parasites are another hidden danger. By eating dirt, dogs can ingest roundworms, hookworms, or protozoans like coccidia.
If you notice your dog eating dirt regularly, consult your veterinarian. This behavior may indicate underlying health issues like nutritional deficiencies, gastrointestinal problems, or stress. Meanwhile, try redirecting your pup’s attention with safe toys, supervised playtime, and training to discourage the habit.
Your dog deserves a happy, healthy life—and steering them away from dirt munching is one way to keep their tail wagging! 🐕💚
.
.
.
#seattledogtrainer #seattledogtraining #dogtrainingisfun #dogtrainerlife #dogtrainingtips #seattlepetcare #seattledogboarding #seattledogwalker #seattlepuppysitters #seattlepuppycare #seattledogwalkinging #cosmicpet
Most dogs don't actually want to be in charge, especially when things get stressful or unpredictable. When they’re left to make their own decisions, they often make choices that may seem “wrong” to us – whether that’s barking, lunging, or reacting in ways that might escalate the situation. This isn’t because they’re disobedient or aggressive; it’s because they feel unsure and overwhelmed.
By stepping in and advocating for your dog, you relieve them of the burden of "being in control." This might mean guiding them calmly through a new experience, creating distance from a stressful situation, or simply reinforcing positive behaviors with patience and consistency. When you show them that you’re there to protect and support them, they feel safer, more relaxed, and more secure.
This approach doesn’t just help them manage stressful moments; it builds a foundation of trust between you and your dog. They learn they can rely on you in tough situations, which not only boosts their confidence but also deepens the bond you share.
.
.
.
#seattledogtrainer #seattledogtraining #dogtrainingisfun #dogtrainerlife #dogtrainingtips #seattlepetcare #seattledogboarding #seattledogwalker #seattlepuppysitters #seattlepuppycare #seattledogwalkinging #cosmicpet
To get the most out of your training experience, it’s important to play an active role in working with your trainer. Helping your trainer maximize their support and guidance can make all the difference in reaching your goals. Here are a few ways to ensure you get the best results:
1. Provide Detailed Information: The more your trainer knows, the better they can support you. Share relevant background information, past training experiences, and specific behaviors or challenges you’re encountering.
2. Be Transparent About Challenges: If you’re facing obstacles or setbacks, don’t hesitate to bring them up. Your trainer is there to help problem-solve and adjust techniques as needed.
3. Give Constructive Feedback: Sharing what’s working well and what might need adjustment allows your trainer to fine-tune their approach.
4. Stay Flexible: Training plans might change as new needs or progress arise, so being adaptable is key. Staying open to new methods or exercises allows your trainer to introduce strategies that can better meet your goals.
5. Celebrate Progress: Acknowledging small wins along the way can make the process more rewarding for both you and your trainer.
Your collaboration and open communication enable your trainer to tailor their approach to your specific needs, ensuring a more effective and personalized training experience. With mutual effort, you’ll make steady progress and enjoy the journey together!
Seattle isn’t known for its sunny days, and often, the drizzle is just part of daily life. If your dog’s attention wavers in the wet weather, it could be due to the stress of training in such conditions. Desensitizing your dog to the rain is essential, but it’s important to take it one step at a time.
Begin with light obedience training sessions in a covered area, like a carport, porch, or even a garage with the door open. This allows your dog to get used to the sounds and sights of rain while staying dry. Gradually, you can increase exposure to the rain by moving closer to the edge of the covered area.
Pay attention to your dog’s reactions. If they’re still hesitant, freezing up, or struggling to concentrate in the rain, it’s time for a contingency plan. Forcing them to train in uncomfortable conditions can lead to stress and frustration for both of you.
Seattle’s rainy days don’t have to put a damper on your dog’s training routine. By starting with light obedience training in covered areas and gradually desensitizing your dog to the rain, you can help them adjust to wet weather. When outdoor training isn’t possible, switch to fun and engaging indoor activities like scent work, puzzle toys, and indoor agility exercises. These alternatives will keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated, ensuring productive and enjoyable training sessions regardless of the weather.
While the steps outlined in your new puppy checklist will help you get started on the right paw, remember that every dog is a unique individual. There’s no one-size-fits-all plan for raising a pup, and sometimes you’ll need to adapt to meet your furry friend’s specific needs.
But here’s the good news: these little quirks are what make our dogs so special! They’re not “problems” to fix, but features that add depth and personality to your canine companion.
As owners, it’s our job to figure out the best way to communicate, love, and guide them. This takes time and patience, but once you learn to crack your puppy’s code, your bond will grow stronger than ever.
So, be flexible in your approach. If one training method isn’t working, don’t be afraid to try another. If your puppy is shy, give them the space they need to build confidence. If they’re extra energetic, find creative ways to channel that energy.
In the end, your willingness to adjust and adapt will lead to a stronger, more fulfilling relationship with your pup. They’ll feel understood and supported, and you’ll have a loyal, loving companion for life.
Housetraining is one of the more challenging parts of raising a puppy, but with consistency and patience, it’s entirely achievable! The key is to prevent accidents from happening and help your puppy learn where it’s appropriate to go potty.
Preventing Accidents Each time your puppy pees or poops inside, they’re reinforcing that behavior, which can make it harder to train them to go outside. Plus, lingering odors can encourage repeat accidents. This is why preventing these early “mistakes” is crucial to long-term success.
Compassionate Crate-Training One of the best tools for housetraining is the crate. Puppies naturally avoid soiling where they sleep, making crate-training a great way to manage bathroom breaks. Here’s how it works:
*Supervision is Key: Your pup should be in the crate when you can’t directly supervise them. If they start to squat, scoop them up quickly and head to the yard.
*Structured Schedule: Start by taking them out of the crate first thing in the morning for a bathroom break, then feed them breakfast, and immediately take them out again afterward. This routine should repeat every hour or two throughout the day, aside from mealtimes.
*Teach One Spot: Regularly taking your pup to the same spot outside helps them understand that’s where they’re supposed to go potty.
Increasing Freedom Gradually As your puppy gets older, you’ll slowly be able to space out their bathroom breaks and give them more freedom outside the crate. Just remember: puppies can typically hold it for about one hour longer between breaks for each month of age (so a 3-month-old puppy can hold it for about 3 hours).
By maintaining a consistent routine and using positive reinforcement, you’ll be able to guide your puppy toward successful housetraining. Before long, they’ll understand that outside is the place to go — and your carpets will thank you!
One of the most important steps in welcoming a new puppy into your home is making sure they get a clean bill of health. Ideally, it’s great to find a veterinarian you trust before bringing your new puppy home so you can stop by the vet’s office on your way back from the shelter, rescue, or breeder. This allows you to get their initial vaccinations out of the way and gives your vet a chance to do a thorough health check to ensure your puppy is off to a healthy start.
But if you haven’t found a vet yet or haven’t taken your new pup in for their first visit—don’t worry! Now is the perfect time to make that appointment. A vet visit within the first few days is essential for making sure your puppy is up-to-date on vaccines and free of any health concerns.
During this visit, it’s important to discuss key topics like flea-and-tick prevention, heartworm medications, and microchipping. These steps will help protect your pup as they explore the world around them. Your vet will also provide a recommended vaccination and deworming schedule, which is vital to keeping your puppy healthy as they grow.
Taking these steps early on will set your new furry friend up for a healthy, happy life. A good relationship with a trusted vet will also give you peace of mind, knowing you have someone to turn to with any questions or concerns as your puppy grows.
One of the best things you can do for your new puppy is to establish a consistent daily routine right from the start. Dogs, especially puppies, thrive on predictability—it helps them feel secure and makes their world more understandable. A set routine can also help prevent separation anxiety and speed up learning processes like house training and basic commands.
Creating a routine means getting your puppy familiar with regular activities at specific times each day. Here's how to begin:
*Wake-Up Time: Start the day by waking your puppy up at the same time each morning. This sets the tone for the rest of the day and gets them used to a schedule.
*Bathroom Breaks: Set regular bathroom breaks throughout the day. You’ll need to take unscheduled trips outside at first, but also establish set times for potty breaks to help your puppy learn quickly and avoid accidents.
*Play Time: Puppies need lots of play and exercise, so carve out time for active play around the same time each day. This not only burns off energy but also strengthens your bond and teaches important social skills.
*Mealtimes: Feed your puppy at consistent times and in the same location each day. This helps them anticipate when they’ll eat and makes mealtime feel structured, which aids digestion and their overall routine.
*Sleep Schedule: Encourage regular sleep times. Puppies sleep a lot—between 18 to 20 hours a day—so help them settle down at the same times each day. Consistent naptimes ensure they’re well-rested and ready for learning and play.
Not only does keeping a routine mean sticking to a schedule, but it also involves consistency in the locations and processes for these activities. Feeding them in the same place, using the same commands during bathroom breaks, and encouraging naps in a regular spot all reinforce predictability. This is crucial for creating a stable environment where your puppy can thrive.
By establishing a routine early on, you’re helping your puppy learn fast
Our dogs are incredibly perceptive creatures, attuned to our emotions and routines. Whether we're leaving for work or just stepping out briefly, how we say goodbye and hello can greatly impact their stress levels and overall well-being.
When we make a big production out of leaving—hugging, kissing, and prolonging our goodbyes—it can unintentionally signal to our dogs that something significant and potentially worrying is happening. This can heighten their anxiety and make it harder for them to accept our absence. Instead, try to keep your departure low-key and matter-of-fact. This communicates to your dog that leaving is normal and nothing to be concerned about.
Similarly, when you return home, avoid creating a scene. While it's natural to be excited to see your furry friend after being apart, an over-the-top greeting can overstimulate them. Instead, come back calmly and wait a few minutes before giving your dog attention. This helps them stay calm and reinforces the idea that your arrivals are relaxed events.
By maintaining a calm demeanor during departures and returns, you help build your dog's confidence and comfort with your comings and goings. Over time, they'll learn that your departures are temporary and that you'll always return, reducing their stress levels and promoting a healthier, more relaxed environment.
Remember, our dogs thrive on routine and emotional consistency. By adopting a calm approach to leaving and returning, we can significantly contribute to their overall well-being and happiness. So, next time you're heading out the door, keep it low-key—your dog will thank you for it!
Cosmic Home & Pet est. 1998. Since 1998, the heart of Cosmic Home & Pet has been the long-term relationships we have built with our clients and their pets.
