Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is notoriously difficult to housebreak, and a crate or kennel is a helpful tool for potty training. Your puppy's crate is like an indoor doghouse where he knows he'll be safe and comfortable. Dogs have a natural instinct for keeping a den, so though the crate may start as a training tool, your Bichon will likely enjoy his private haven throughout his life.
Crate Training and Housebreaking
Bichons are intelligent dogs, though slow to mature. They do well with obedience training at an early age, but often have trouble learning to control their bowels and bladder. Crating is an effective way to teach your puppy good bathroom habits.
Dogs are reluctant to go to the bathroom in small confined areas, especially if it's where they sleep, so keep your puppy in her crate between meals and play times. Always take her outside to use the bathroom before putting her in her crate, and also as soon she comes out. Create a regular bathroom schedule so your puppy learns the routine. Consistency is key to successful housebreaking.
Puppies have tiny bladders and need to urinate frequently, so it's a good idea to schedule bathroom breaks every 15 minutes while she's up and active. Line the crate with a pee pad in case of accidents. Monitor how much water she drinks because this will help determine how often she needs to go out. Once she's done her business outside, reward her with a treat for doing a good job.
Crate Confinement
A crate is not a cage; it's your Bichon puppy's cozy den filled with soft bedding to keep him warm and plush toys to cuddle. A crate is portable so you can take it from room to room, and use it to transport your puppy in the car. Keep the crate in the same room with you during the day so your puppy won't be lonely. At night, place the crate near your bed so he can see you and alert you when he needs to go to the bathroom.
Puppies need a lot of love and attention, so never leave your Bichon puppy alone in his crate for more than 1 hour at a time, except at night when he goes to bed. Always remove your puppy's collar before putting him in his crate to prevent possible strangulation should a strap or buckle get caught on the bars or latch. Leave yummy treats and chew toys inside the crate to re-enforce it as a positive experience.
Never let your Bichon puppy roam the house unsupervised because he could get into trouble. Not only might he have an accident on the floor, he could chew through an electrical cord and electrocute himself, or get into a cupboard with cleaning products that could poison him. Keeping your puppy in his crate when you can't be there will protect him from household dangers.
Once your Bichon puppy is housebroken, he'll probably only use his crate to sleep in at night. Leave the crate door open during the day for him to retreat to for naps or whenever he needs to feel safe.
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