14 Tips for Puppy Potty Training Success

14 Tips for Puppy Potty Training Success



Teaching your new puppy where and when to “go” is a huge milestone in your relationship. In addition to reducing messy potty accidents, housetraining will bring you closer together while helping your furry friend learn the rules of home. Follow these tips for puppy potty training to set up your pup for success!

Before Welcoming Home Your Pup
#1. Manage Your Expectations
One of the most important things to keep in mind when potty training your puppy is understanding there will be accidents. Successful housetraining takes several months for puppies and adult dogs alike, so be patient when teaching your dog.

#2. Pick the Right Pads
Whether you want to teach your dog to potty indoors or outdoors, dog training pads provide a dependable solution. These highly absorbent pads offer unparalleled floor protection and feature built-in attractant, which encourages dogs to potty on the pad. They are available in many sizes and are designed with different innovative features, so you will be sure to find the ideal variety for your new furry friend.

#3. Invest in a Collar and Leash
If you ultimately plan on teaching your pup to potty outdoors, you should purchase an easy-to-remove collar and leash. This will reduce the time spent suiting up your puppy to go outside, helping you avoid potential indoor accidents.

#4. Stock up on Pet Cleaners
Purchasing dog stain and odor removers, paper towels, and waste bags is an essential tip for puppy potty training. Keep these items on hand so you can quickly clean messes and prevent your pup from thinking your floor is an acceptable potty. Having these products will also help curb frustration during the training process.

#5. Put up Gates
Creating boundaries will provide your puppy a secure, comfortable spot and keep them away from places where they should not potty. Set up some dog gates in a safe area of your home.

#6. Prepare Your Dog’s Crate
Dogs have sought out small dens for thousands of years, so providing your puppy a crate will provide them some personal space. Set up your dog’s crate before welcoming them home to ensure they have a go-to safe haven. This secure area will also teach your pup to “hold it” for extended periods.

A crate that’s too big may tempt your dog to “go” in one corner and lie in another, and a crate that’s too small will feel confining and uncomfortable. The crate you choose should be big enough so your puppy can stand up, lie down, and turn around.

#7. Find the Perfect Crate Spot
Your puppy’s crate should be in an easily accessible location where your family spends a lot of time; the last thing your new dog wants is to feel isolated. The kitchen or family room often make great choices. You can also place the crate next to your bed at night to help your dog feel secure and provide easier access if you need to take them out for a late-night potty trip.

Starting Potty and Crate Training

#8. Let Your Pup Explore Their Crate
Don’t force your pup into their crate when you welcome them home. Instead, leave the door open and let them willingly explore. Furnish the crate with soft bedding and place puppy chew toys and treats inside to help your dog feel comfortable. Once your pup is familiar with the crate, put them inside for 10 or 15 minutes and gradually increase the time as they get used to it. Give your puppy treats and plenty of praise when they enter the crate.

#9. Manage Crate Time
Your dog’s crate should not be a place of loneliness or punishment; crate sessions should last about two to four hours at most. If you cannot be home frequently enough to take your pooch out, hire a dog walker or have a trusted neighbor or family member let them out while you’re gone.

#10. Establish a Potty Training Game Plan
Once you gather all your supplies and introduce your new dog to the family, you’ll be ready to start potty training your puppy. You can teach your puppy to use Wee-Wee training pads in five simple steps:

1. Pick a potty spot that is away from heavy foot traffic and easily accessible for your dog
2. Place your dog on the pad frequently throughout the day to familiarize them with their potty spot
3. Take your dog to the pad at times when they are most likely to urinate, including first thing in the morning, after eating and drinking, and following playtime
4. Reward your pup with praise, a treat, or their favorite toy after they eliminate on the pad
5. Replace the soiled pad with a new one

If you want to teach your pup to potty outside, move the Wee-Wee training pad closer to the door every day by one or two feet. When the pad reaches the door, place it in an appropriate outdoor area and take your pup to this spot.

#11. Forgive Potty Accidents
If your puppy is eight to 16 weeks old, they do not yet know how to “hold it.” Instead of scolding your dog after a potty accident, take them back to the potty spot right away and encourage them to potty there. Signs such as sniffing or circling indicate your dog may be about to eliminate.

Keeping up with Potty Training
#12. Put Your Pup on a Schedule
Maintaining a consistent routine might be the most underrated tip for puppy potty training! Choose a set time for your pup’s meals, playtime, and exercise. This will make potty times more predictable and will help your dog grow accustomed to a regular schedule.

#13. Offer Plenty of Playtime
Puppies need lots of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Plus, dog playtime makes a great opportunity to form a stronger bond with your pup. Provide ample exercise and interactive toys, and let your dog out of their crate occasionally so they can stretch their legs and use their potty.

#14. Stick to Your Goal
If you want your dog to continue eliminating indoors on Wee-Wee training pads after they finish potty training, the process should be relatively quick. If you want to teach your dog to potty outside, though, understand this might take a while longer. Once they’re accustomed to eliminating indoors, it can be difficult to deter them from this habit. Have patience; your dog will get there soon!

Ready to Potty Train Your Pup?
Start potty training your puppy early and often to ensure they understand the process and know what you expect of them. Most pups typically need four to six months to become fully housetrained while some may take up to one year. Be patient with your dog as they become familiar with their potty spot, and always let them know when they’ve done a good job. As you and your dog work together, you will be on your way to an even happier relationship!
14 Tips for Puppy Potty Training Success
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