Basic Obedience for Your Boston Terrier Puppy

Even if you papertrain, you will use the crate to confine the puppy when you're out of the house. If not, what can you do with your uncrated puppy when you're not home? How sure can you be that he's not getting himself into danger, destroying your belongings or otherwise creating havoc in your house? If you are crate-shy (and some people are), then you can confine him to one room with baby gates or another dog-proof barrier. Puppy-proof the room by removing anything your puppy could chew or damage and hurt himself in the process. But even in a stripped environment, some pups will chew through drywall. An exercise pen, (available through pet suppliers), sturdy enough that your puppy can't destroy, will provide safe containment for short periods. Paper one area for elimination, with perhaps a blanket in the opposite corner for napping. Safe chew toys should help keep your puppy happy and occupied while you're gone.

As with other aspects of dog training, you must be patient. Housetraining, especially, can be a trying time. It is simply essential to have a clean house-dog, and life will be much easier for all of you—not to mention the carpeting and furniture. Keep in mind while training: use your common sense, be consistent and have patience. Just when you may think that all is hopeless, your puppy turns into the perfect little American gentleman.

Next step: Training Overview

Reprinted from Breeders Best: Boston Terrier © 2004. Permission granted by Kennel Club Books, an imprint of BowTie Press.

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