Belgian Sheepdogs, although capable of living outside, need
house time. They are extremely devoted to their human families and need
to feel they are part of the family unit.
If you wish your dog to live outside, we strongly urge you to
bring him inside for the evening when everyone is at home for
socialization. But remember, a puppy is not born housebroken or with
house manners. These have to be taught.
If your crated pup cannot hold his urge
to eliminate, he will let you know, as he does not like to soil his
bed.
If you neglected
to let him relieve himself, fed him too late or ignored his pleas and the
worst happens, say nothing. Remove the pup and take him outside.
Praise him if he relieves himself and return him to a cleaned-up crate.
This accident was not his fault, and you'll be more attentive in the future.
The
more a pup is forced to lie in his own wastes, the more insensitive he becomes
to the situation. Usually, a dog who has been allowed to stay in a dirty
crate will be difficult to housebreak and will remain a crate-soiler.
