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Potty training is a rite of passage for new puppy owners. While the process requires patience, consistency, and a little bit of cleanup, the reward is a well-trained pup who knows when and where to go. If you're ready to tackle potty training, this guide will provide you with all the essential tips and tricks to set your puppy up for success.
At What Age Should a Puppy Be Potty Trained?
Puppies can start potty training at 8 weeks old when they typically come home with you. Their bladder control is still developing, so frequent trips outside are necessary. By the time they reach 4 to 6 months, most puppies should have reliable potty habits with consistent training.
How Long Does It Take to Potty Train a Puppy?
The potty training timeline varies based on breed, consistency, and individual puppy development. On average, it can take up to several months. Occasional accidents may still happen even after that, especially in new environments or during times of excitement. Some puppies learn quickly, while others may need additional time and reinforcement.
Supplies Needed for Dog Potty Training
To make puppy potty training smooth and effective, be sure to have the right supplies:
Crate: Helps with crate training, which encourages bladder control and prevents accidents.
Treats: Use as rewards for successful potty trips outside.
Leash: Use for taking your puppy outside to go potty. It is best to begin by using a leash to keep them focused.
Training pee pads: These can be useful in the early potty training stages or for apartment dwellers.
Pet cleaning supplies: Enzyme-based cleaners remove pet waste odors and stains, preventing your puppy from revisiting accident spots.
Puppy Potty Training Tips
Create a potty training schedule
In the beginning, puppies generally need to go potty every 1-2 hours. Take your puppy outside regularly— including first thing in the morning, after meals, naps, playtime, and before bedtime. Be consistent with the schedule. As they age, puppies develop better bladder control and the potty breaks can be stretched longer.
Location matters
Use the same potty spot in your yard each time. The familiar scent will signal to your puppy that it’s the right place to go.
Focus on potty time, not playtime
In the early potty training stages, take your puppy out on a leash and avoid distractions. Once they finish, you can reward them with playtime.
Positive reinforcement
Praise your puppy enthusiastically and offer a treat when they go potty outside.
Don’t yell or punish accidents
Accidents happen! Punishing your puppy can create fear and confusion and hurt the bond you are forming with them. Instead, clean up the mess thoroughly and continue reinforcing proper habits.
Clean indoor accidents well
Use an enzyme-based cleaner to remove odors when cleaning up indoor accidents so your puppy isn’t tempted to go potty in the same spot.
Utilize a crate
Crates help prevent accidents by encouraging your puppy to hold their bladder. Dogs naturally do not like to go to the bathroom where they sleep. Make sure the crate is appropriately sized and comfortable. Allow your puppy rest time in their crate when you cannot fully supervise them. You should still let them out to go potty every 1-2 hours (or at least once during the night.)
Watch for potty signals
Puppies will start to sniff, circle, or whine when they need to go. Learning these signs can help prevent accidents.
Is Puppy Pad Training OK?
Puppy pad training can be useful in certain situations, such as for apartment dwellers or during extreme weather when it is unsafe to go outside. In the very early stages of potty training, pee pads can be a great tool to protect your indoor surfaces while your puppy is still learning bladder control and cannot yet hold it long enough to wait for outdoor trips. However, relying too heavily on pee pads can delay outdoor potty training. If using them, gradually transition your puppy to going outside as they develop better control. The goal is to phase out the pads over time so your puppy learns to do their business outside consistently.
We’ll Pick Up What Your Pup Is Putting Down
Potty training takes time, patience, and consistency, but the results are worth it! While you focus on teaching your puppy where to go, DoodyCalls can help with the yard waste cleanup. We know this stage can be messy, and we’re here to make things easier so you can focus on training your new furry friend. Contact us today to keep your yard clean and fresh while your puppy learns the ropes!