Cocker spaniels are considered by canine experts as one of the most
intelligent breeds. As such, housebreaking a cocker spaniel puppy
is comparatively easy considering its high level of intelligence
coupled with its equable temperament. Of course, many tips abound
as to the ways to effectively housetrain your puppy with the
following suggestions forming just the tip of the iceberg.

Crate Training Tips

Ideally, the best time to start crate training is when the cocker
spaniel puppy is at least 7 weeks old. Premature separation poses
the higher likelihood that the puppy will develop behavioral
problems like extreme separation anxiety.

Contrary to opinions, crate training is not a cruel act toward the
young animal when it is implemented in the right manner. The crate,
in fact, provides a place for the puppy to feel safe, secure and
calm away from the unfamiliar surroundings of its new home. The
crate also functions as the puppy's personal space.

With that in mind, the best crate is one that only allows the puppy
to stand up and sleep on its side. If the puppy can walk around in
it, potty training will be negatively affected. Take note that
puppies are taught by their mothers not to soil their dining and
sleeping areas. So, if the crate is just of the right size for
sleeping, your pet will not make bowel and bladder movements in the
crate.

You must also make sure that the crate is clean and comfortable for
your cocker spaniel. Place clean, soft and warm beddings on its
floor, put in a toy and a food bowl. It will then become an
inviting place for the puppy.

At first, try to leave the puppy inside the crate for just an hour
or two at a time. Gradually increase the amount of time until you
can go to work with the thought that your pet is safely inside its
crate - with food, water and toy, of course.

Potty Training Tips

If the dog will not pee and poop in the crate, you must identify an
appropriate place for such purposes. You can choose either from a
specific part of the yard or a corner of the house filled with
litter supplies. You must then assist the puppy in making the
association between its need to pee/poop and the appointed dog
toilet.

But first, you must learn to observe the puppy's routines in eating
its food and then eliminating its waste. If the breeder can provide
the information, you will have an easier time at determining when
the puppy needs to "go". Close supervision is necessary during the
first few days of potty training.

Also, you must remember a few general rules.

- In general, a puppy will eliminate its bodily wastes every 2
hours or an hour after eating and drinking. Its stomach is still
small, after all. 
- If you see signs that the puppy has to "go", take it out of its
crate and lead it to the dog toilet. Say the command "Go potty" and
then wait for it to do so. 
- Don't let the puppy perform any other activity aside from going
potty. 
- Praise it for a job well done.

With crate and potty training, your new pet will become a beloved
member of the family. Your cocker spaniel should be well-behaved,
as can be expected.