Housetraining Problems
Puppies who came from an environment where they were accustomed to eliminating in a cage are often difficult to housetrain — so crate-training doesn't always work with them. Sometimes, they wait to eliminate until they're put in a crate, because that's all they've ever done. Working with this puppy requires an extra dose of patience, as well as some creative thinking.
One way to teach a dog to potty outside is to reward the action in a way he'll remember. Take a clicker and some treats outside with you. As the dog urinates or defecates, click. When he's finished, give him a treat. He'll soon be very anxious to potty for you when you go outside.
Provide Extra Supervision
If you're faced with a puppy who doesn't understand that he's not supposed to potty in his crate, try keeping him leashed by your side all the time. That way you'll be right there if he shows signs of needing to go out. Take him out as often as possible until he potties outside, and then heap praise on him.
Be Persistent
If he potties in his crate at night, take him outside just before bedtime and try to get him to go. If he doesn't go the first time, take him out again in half an hour. Even if you have to go out several times, do your best to get him to go potty before you put him in his crate for the night.
Don't give up! It can take months before something clicks inside this puppy's brain and he realizes that outside is the place to go. By learning his schedule and understanding his body language, you can help teach him what you want.
