Hi Jose!
There are many factors that can contribute to housebreaking difficulties. However, Bichons are notoriously tough cookies! I have a few questions to determine the best course of action based on this particular pup. So please call me. But to get you started let's assume the pup is healthy. A six month old should be able to hold it's 'stuff,' and go when it's time for an outside bathroom break - so here's the deal... Don't free feed, control feeding times and feed when you will be there with the pup for the next hour or so. Pick up the food after about 15 minutes. Take out your Bichon immediately after he eats and use cue words for the task. (I use "outside" for #2, and "go pee" for #1) I had to seperate the two because my pup would do one and figure he was finished, but oh no...
Next, in the crate he goes. If the trip outside saw no success - the rule of thumb with a Bichon is; if you can't watch him for every second, put him in his crate. Because for the two seconds you weren't watching - he will take the opportunity to stealthly go where you can't see.
Now in intervals of 15 minutes, keep taking Fido out and repeat the same procedure until he goes. Once he does it, have a party! Maybe even give him a treat! Do this over and over again until he gets the hang of it! |
