If you are a potential dog owner and is considering of getting a papillon, you are probably wondering how to train this elegant breed with large butterfly-like ears. Just like training other breeds, papillon training requires certain rules and methodologies in order to achieve the goals... one of which is to train the pet to urinate or defecate on the designated area.

Before taking steps to housebreak the pet, it is important that owners or soon-to-be owners are aware that puppies have limited control of their bowel and bladder. Without constant supervision, they are most likely to commit accidents - urinating every few hours and defecating more than once a day in prohibited areas. To prevent this from happening, puppies must be taken at the designated area every hour during daytime. When he goes, reward him with praise, hug or favorite treat. If he doesn't, go back inside and take him out five to ten minutes later. This method helps you determine your pup's potty schedule. You may also want to watch for signs that he is about to go. These signs include sniffing the floor and moving in circles.

When the pet has full control of his bladder, you may not need to take him out every hour or so anymore. You can take him out after waking up in the morning, after eating or drinking, after doing physical activities, when excited, nervous or scared and before going to bed at night.

Feeding your papillon with high-quality dog food on a regular schedule is also important for the success of housebreaking. Table scraps and other human foods should be avoided to prevent stomach upset.

Sometimes, despite of your best effort to avoid it, accidents do occur. When this happens, never make the mistake of punishing your dog physically. Swatting him on the rear with a rolled paper or rubbing his nose on the spot will not do good at all. Instead, it will just lead to problems such as aggression and other behavior issues. When caught in the act, create a noise loud enough to distract him then immediately take him at the designated area to finish his business there. Reward him if he does. Clean the soiled area thoroughly. The puppy must not smell the odor or else he will think that it is alright to go again in that same place.

Papillon training, much more housebreaking needs patience, perseverance and consistency. You need to have these traits or else you'll never enjoy having a papillon.