Housetraining is the number one concern new dog owners have when they bring home their new family member--aside from taming the occasional wild curtain-destroyer or couch-mauler. Luckily it's as easy to master as it is to get to know and love your new canine friend.

In fact, getting to know your dog is the key element to successful housetraining. Knowing his habits and paying attention to the signals your dog is giving you is the easiest way to understand your dog’s cycle--and to avoid accidents.

A puppy can generally hold its bladder one hour for every month he's lived. Pay attention to how much and when your puppy eats and drinks, then time his trips outside. Usually dogs will want to relieve themselves twenty minutes after eating and drinking.

What signs does your dog give that he might want to take a potty break? There are usually just a couple of things he will do that will tip you off--whining, sniffing at doors or windows, being very restless, or sniffing the floor as though he's looking for the right spot. Keep an eye out for your dog’s particular signal and you'll bypass accidents you may have previously thought couldn’t be avoided.

Doggies should always be congratulated, in happy voices, when they've gone outside. With enough praise, your dog will understand that going outside is the right thing to do. You should never shame or scold a dog for an accident indoors. Not only is it pointlessly mean, but it may actually cause your dog to be afraid to tell you when he has to eliminate, which will only cause more accidents.

As with all training, you'll have to be patient to achieve the desired results, and of course all dogs are different. As long as you're very observant and attentive, the level of understanding between you and your dog will increase dramatically, and you'll quickly be able to tell when he’s ready to go outside. Good luck!