1. to train a pet (especially a dog or cat) to urinate and defecate outside the house or in a designated indoor area
Usage: also called 'housetrain' in British English
2. to commit burglary; to break into a house illegally
Usage: less common; often used in legal or crime contexts

Examples

• We need to housebreak our new puppy before she has accidents on the carpet.
• It took three months to housebreak the rescue dog.
• The police arrested suspects who attempted to housebreak a residence on Maple Street.
• Housebreaking a kitten requires patience and consistency.
• Young dogs are typically housebroken by six months of age.
• The gang was charged with housebreaking and theft.