Whether you’re adopting a new puppy or are bringing home an adult dog, consider these tips for a smooth transition.

• Put your dog on a consistent feeding schedule, preferably twice a day, for regular elimination. 

• Take your dog out for potty breaks in the morning immediately after waking, 10 minutes after mealtimes and before bedtime. Also after being crated or confined.

• For the first few weeks, take your dog outside for bathroom breaks every hour to instill good habits.

• When outside, reward your dog with tasty treats immediately after he has eliminated.

• Crate your dog overnight and when you are not at home. Puppies under six months of age should not be crated longer than 3-4 hours; older dogs up to 6 hours.

• Your dog should be watched at all times inside. If he cannot be properly supervised, use a crate, tether or exercise pen.

• If you catch your dog in the act of house soiling, interrupt with hand clapping only, immediately take him outside and reward with a treat if he finishes in his bathroom area.

• Do not scold your dog when finding house soiling after the fact. Punishment will only make him afraid of you, and he will not understand what he has done wrong.

• Clean soiled areas with an enzymatic cleaner to breakdown urine proteins and prevent future accidents.