Ask Joey: My 2 puppies are trouble!

August 3, 2009 by doggymom
Filed under Ask Joey, Featured

My Puppies Are Trouble!

Dear Joey,

My husband and I just adopted 2 adorable puppies from the pound. They were litter mates and seem very close to eachother. They don't listen to us at all. Our biggest problem is trying to potty train them. Whenever we take them outside, all they want to do is play with each other instead of "doing their business." Any suggestions?

Millie C.

Moyock, NC

Dear Millie,

Hey you don't live too far away from us! Your puppies have bonded with each other instead of you. It's only natural since they have known each other since they were born and have been together through the scary time of being separated from their mother and getting put in a cage at the pound.

You want them to bond with you! First of all, I suggest you and your husband each take a puppy through a puppy obedience training class. Also, both of you should try to spend some time every day alone with each puppy. Play with them, take them for a walk, cuddle with them, just do it without the other puppy present. This will give them a chance to bond with you.

As for the potty training, take each puppy out by themselves. Take them to the spot (away from where they may hear or see the other puppy) you want them to pee and poop. Tell them to "go potty" or whatever keyword you use. Then stand quietly while they sniff around and look for the perfect spot. After they do their business, praise them, play with them for a few minutes and then take them inside and repeat the process with the other puppy. After both have pottied, bring them both outside and let them play together, and better still, try to engage them into playing with you. Throw a ball for them maybe.

Yes, this may sound like alot of work but once they are house trained, you can try taking them both out at the same time again and see how they do together. Eventually, they should be fine together and it will be much easier.

Good luck and keep us posted!