They need to put the pup on a schedual. Feed him once in the morning then take him out when he is done, and make sure he goes to the bathroom, then feed him again when they get home. This helps not only to regulate his bathroom schedual, it also helps prevent the pup from getting overweight. they could also try keeping the pup gated in the kitchen if they want to give him more room while they are gone. It is NEVER acceptable to strike a dog. Hitting them does not make them understand what they are doing wrong. This can cause problems when they become adults, Pit bulls especially. I work at an animal shelter and see many dogs who have problems because they were hit as puppies. Try positive re-inforcement because dogs learn faster that way. ... View related article.
