I am unable to train my three-month-old Beagle for house training, please help. At what age we should take him out on leash? Should we buy him a harness?

Here are some basic tips to stop him soiling your house. When inside, closely supervise your dog. If can’t be with him, confine him to a small area or exercise pen during house training. Continue this until he has gone at least 4-8 weeks without any accidents. Always accompany him outside to eliminate. Take him out frequently, especially after eating, sleeping and play activities. Immediately reward outdoor elimination with praise and treats. Do it as soon as he has finished. (If you wait until he is back inside, he will think the reward is for coming back inside). Consider keeping a jar of treats near the door as a reminder to take a few on your way outside. If you catch him eliminating inside, startle him with a loud noise and immediately take him outside to finish eliminating. Then, once again, reward your dog immediately. Clean the soiled areas inside with enzymatic cleaners. You need to eliminate the smell so that he doesn’t associate indoors with elimination. Don’t punish when he slips up. This is rarely effective. Instead reward him for good behaviour. Seriously consider puppy and obedience classes. Leash is for training/walk and not age related. It’s suggested to start with a leash & suitable collar and you may consider buying harness when he is fully grown.

Question by – Shekhar Rai, Patna