It is important that you recognize Bichon Frise problem behaviors early so that they can be easily corrected. As owners we sometimes mistake Bichon Frise problem behaviors as cute or natural dog behavior. Little things like holding onto something when you want to take it away or try to get your attention while you are doing something may seem cute at first but they are indications of behavior problems.
It is important to recognize that rather than being cute these behaviors are problems and your Bichon Frise needs training. Bichon Frise training is best carried out when your dog is still a puppy and the behavior has not yet become a habit. Dog training books will tell you this and anyone else you talk to will advise you to start training as soon as you can. Bichon Frise training does not need to be a chore, as it can be great fun for both owner and pet.
Bichon Frise problem behaviors often stem from a lack of discipline and structure in the home. Some dog training books you have come across may have advocated using a pack mentality when training your dog. This is an excellent way to approach Bichon Frise training. You need to make your dog respect you before you can get it to do anything. To do this your dog must look at you as pack leader. The pack leader has say over everyone else in the pack. The others in the pack cannot tell the pack leader to do anything.
If your dog is comfortable in the pen it will not want to go in the den. Take the dog to an area that is suitable for it to go regularly and allow your pet easy access to this area at all times. Follow a schedule and make sure you take your dog to this area after meals, after it has woken up and after play. These are usually the times that your puppy will need to go.
Do not expect miracles, house breaking will take time. Keep in mind that the Bichon Frise is a hard breed to housebreak and it is considered one of the Bichon Frise problem behaviors. With some patience and persistence you should be able to train your dog and keep your house clean.
Praise and treats are also the best way to reinforce good behavior. The key is to keep repeating commands such as sit, stay and paw. Your dog will not learn on the first try, it will take a few attempts.
Keep playing with your Bichon Frise. This is actually an important part of Bichon Frise training. Dog training books aimed at the Bichon Frise will advocate this too.
Train your dog a little at a time everyday and it will soon be well trained.