Pug Training: Using a Crate & Leash

Pugs are such a portable small breed that it's little wonder that most Pugs are not allowed to roam around wildly at will.  Since many pet owners usually have a busy schedule, most Pugs wind up indoors all day which can make things difficult when trying to housetrain a Pug.

A combination of crate and leash training works for some Pugs. If the adult Pug is new to your family or returning home after time in a kennel while you were away, you may have to reinforce his potty training.

One way to train is by using a crate during the day and incorporate a leash that isn't too restricting when you are at home with your Pug.  Keeping your Pug locked up and unable to roam around all day is not really the best answer - but it is a part of the training process.

Begin as you would with a puppy and schedule regular potty breaks.  Be sure to make the breaks long enough after a meal so that the Pug can actually eliminate something worthwhile on the trip outside.

Start by devoting a whole weekend to observing your Pug on a leash when he is out of his crate so that you can learn the signs that he needs to use the bathroom.  Your Pug might act shaky or agitated and may even squat down.  Take these signs as your cue to take pup outside.

Always remember to praise your pooch highly whenever he does his business.  This teaches him that when he goes potty in a certain spot that you are proud of him.

If, during your absence, your Pug stayed in a kennel where he eliminated, ate and slept in the same area, then he may have lost his earlier training. He's also probably very depressed and dejected.

Pugs really don't like to incorporate potty space with living space.  Your Pug will need you to boost his confidence with his bathroom skills.

Older Pugs usually have more bladder control than a young pup.  This allows the older Pug to go for longer periods in between bathroom breaks.  If your Pug is constantly having accidents you may need to get him checked out.  He may have a urinary tract infection, diarrhea or some type of medical problem.

If you notice a sudden or drastic change in your Pug's potty habits it is a good idea to take him to the vet for safe measure.  Potty problems can be a sign of something much more serious.

While he is being treated for his medical issues you will need to show him that you care and not try to push potty training as hard as before.  Your Pug needs to have time to recuperate from whatever is ailing him first.  Keep your Pug on a leash when he is out of his crate and be certain to look out for any signs that your Pug needs a potty break until he recovers.

Make sure you check out our Pug potty training videos -- they will help a lot with this process!