House Training Your Boston: Quick & Easy Tips

TRAINING & BEHAVIOR / TRAINING BASICS

Disclaimer: I am not a vet. For any health-related concerns regarding your Boston Terrier, please consult a veterinarian.

Introduction: Why House Training is Important for Your Boston Terrier

House training is one of the first and most important skills to teach your Boston Terrier. It ensures that your home stays clean and your dog learns appropriate behavior. Boston Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, which can make house training easier, but it still requires consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. This guide provides quick and easy tips to help you successfully house train your Boston Terrier.

Step 1: Establish a Routine

Create a Consistent Schedule

Take your Boston outside at the same times every day, such as first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bed.
Generally, a puppy can hold their bladder for about one hour for each month of age. For example, if your puppy is 2 months old, they can usually wait around two hours between bathroom breaks. Avoid going longer than this, as they are likely to have an accident.
Adult dogs can typically wait 4–6 hours between bathroom breaks.

Feeding Schedule Matters

Feed your dog at the same time each day to help regulate their digestive system.
Avoid free-feeding to make it easier to predict when your dog will need to go outside.

Step 2: Choose a Designated Bathroom Spot

Pick a Specific Area Outside

Select a quiet spot in your yard or a nearby park where your dog can consistently relieve itself.
The smell of their previous visits will help them recognize this area as their bathroom spot.

Use the Same Command Word

Use a consistent word or phrase like “Go potty” to signal to your Boston that it’s time to relieve itself. Over time, your dog will associate this command with the action.

Step 3: Supervise Your Boston Inside

Limit Freedom in the House

Restrict your Boston’s access to the house, especially in the early stages of house training. Confine them to one room or use baby gates to prevent accidents.
Always keep an eye on them, or use a crate when you can’t supervise.

Watch for Signs That They Need to Go

Sniffing, pacing, or circling are signs that your Boston might need to go outside. Take them out immediately when you notice these behaviors.

Step 4: Crate Training for Success

Use a Crate for House training

Crate training helps your Boston learn bladder control. Dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area, so a crate can encourage them to hold it until they’re let outside.
Ensure the crate is appropriately sized—big enough for your Boston to stand up, turn around, and lie down, but not so large that they have space to eliminate one side and sleep on the other.

Avoid Using the Crate as Punishment

The crate should be a positive, safe space for your dog. Never use it as a form of punishment.

Step 5: Positive Reinforcement

Praise and Reward Immediately

Every time your Boston successfully goes outside, immediately reward them with a treat and praise. This positive reinforcement helps them understand what you want.
Keep a stash of treats near the door to make rewarding easy and quick.

Be Consistent with Rewards

Reinforce good behavior consistently, especially in the early stages of training. This will help solidify the connection between going outside and receiving a reward.

Step 6: Handle Accidents Calmly

Don’t Punish Your Dog

If you catch your Boston in the act of having an accident inside, calmly interrupt them and immediately take them outside to their designated bathroom spot.
Never yell or punish your dog for accidents; they won’t understand and may become fearful or anxious about housetraining.

Clean Up Accidents Thoroughly

Use an enzymatic cleaner to thoroughly clean any accidents inside. This will remove the odor and prevent your dog from being attracted to the same spot in the future.

Step 7: Dealing with Setbacks

Remain Patient

Every dog is different, and some may take longer to house train than others. Stay patient, and remember that consistency is key.
If your Boston has a setback, go back to a more structured routine and continue reinforcing good behavior.

When to Seek Help

If your dog is consistently having accidents inside or is older and still not house trained, consult with a veterinarian to rule out any medical issues like urinary tract infections.
A professional dog trainer can help if your dog has difficulty learning the desired behavior.

Step 8: House training for Puppies vs. Adults

House training Puppies

Puppies generally have smaller bladders and need to go out more often. Be prepared for more frequent trips outside, especially during the first few months.
The process may take several months before your puppy can hold it through the night or for long periods.

House training Adult Boston Terriers

Adult dogs may take a bit longer to learn, especially if they weren’t previously house trained. However, their ability to control their bladder is usually better, making training easier.

Step 9: Troubleshooting Common House training Issues

Inconsistent Accidents

If your dog is having accidents despite following the routine, double-check your schedule and ensure you are consistent with outings.
If your Boston is having accidents only at certain times (e.g., when left alone), consider whether separation anxiety might be an issue.

Going Inside When Left Alone

If your Boston only has accidents when left unsupervised, consider using a crate or confining them to a small area when you are away.
You may also want to consider a professional trainer if your dog’s anxiety seems to be affecting their house training progress.

Conclusion: House training Your Boston for a Clean, Happy Home

House training your Boston Terrier doesn’t have to be a stressful process. By establishing a consistent routine, using positive reinforcement, and being patient, you’ll help your dog learn where it’s appropriate to relieve themselves. With time and persistence, your Boston will be fully house trained and ready to be the well-behaved companion you’ve always wanted.

By following these simple steps and being consistent in your approach, you’ll set your Boston up for success and avoid accidents around the house. Keep in mind that every dog is different, and each dog will learn at their own pace. Patience and positive reinforcement are the keys to success!

Additional Resources

AKC – How to potty train a puppy

Humane Society – How to potty train your dog

Boston Terrier Times