Most require several months or more, and some may take longer than a year. But the basics are always the same: it’s straightforward, consistent and lasts as long as is necessary.

There are many ways to house train a dog; here’s one of the ways we do it.

First, invest in a puppy-sized dog crate. A crate that’s too big will allow your puppy to move too far away from the mess he’s making, which defeats the purpose. However, they should have enough room to move a little away from their mess.

Some crates come with dividers that allow you to change the interior size of the crate to fit, giving you two crates for the price of one whilst they are growing.

Next, set aside a specific part of your outside area as the place where your puppy can do its ‘business’. A dog run, which can be purchased at most pet shops, is tremendously helpful, but they can be pricey and not absolutely necessary.

Finally, and this is the where you need to be consistent, set aside some time for you. For the next week or 10 days, you won’t be getting much sleep.

So let’s get started, put your puppy in his crate in a room where you can hear him, even at night. When your puppy whines or begins fussing even in the middle of the night, take him outside and let him do his business in the wire enclosure you’ve erected or in the designated area.

Most puppies stop crying after a week or two, and then you can place their crate in the room where it will be permanent. By 12 weeks, most puppies are able to control their bladders and bowels, at least for a little while.

But you’ll still need to keep an eye on them, and the moment they start whining or pawing at the door, take them outside to their area and reward and fuss them if they are successful. If they make a mistake, don’t rub their nose in it, we just say “No” and take them outside…. but do try to be a little more vigilant about catching them before they have an accident. Prevention is better than cure.

It may take six months or longer before your dog is reliably housebroken, so keep at it. In some ways your are training yourself to notice when they need to go out, waiting by the door or pacing about etc. But don’t give up, sooner or later, you’ll get there.