A crate is key to easier house-training

If you're housetraining a new puppy, you'll find it goes more quickly if you use a crate.

Crate-training limits a puppy's options to three: He's either empty and playing in the house, or he's in the crate and "holding it" because he doesn't want to sit in his own waste, or he's at the place you've chosen for him to relieve himself.

Puppies need to relieve themselves after they wake up, after they eat or drink, or after a period of play. Set up a schedule to accommodate his needs — young puppies, especially small breeds or mixes, can't go very long without eating, drinking, sleeping or relieving themselves — as you work to mold behavior. A good rule of thumb: Puppies can hold it as long as their age in months. A 2-month-old pup can "hold it" in a crate for about two hours, for example.

Don't punish your pet for mistakes. If you catch your dog in the act, a stern "no" will suffice, followed by an immediate trip to the yard and praise when he finishes up where he's supposed to. Clean up the inside mess thoroughly, and treat the area with an enzymatic solution to neutralize the smell.

If your puppy doesn't seem to be "getting it," ask your veterinarian for a referral to a behaviorist who can help get you both on track.

Remember, the goal is for your puppy to roam free in your house, not to stay in a crate for life. But the lessons of cratetraining remain important: A dog who is used to being comfortably confined will be less stressed at the veterinarian hospital and also will have more options for housing in time of emergency.