4 Ways to Successfully Potty Train a Puppy
Potty training a puppy is a common concern for new dog owners, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. While there isn't a one-size-fits-all method, dog experts often share similar tips to make the process easier. Here are some of the best puppy potty training tips to keep in mind.
1. When can you start potty training a puppy?
The best time to start potty training a puppy is between 12 and 16 weeks old, but some dogs begin their potty-training routine as young as 8 weeks old. By 12 weeks, a puppy has enough control and can learn how to hold it. When your dog is younger than 8 weeks old, and while you are training them, line their play area or crate with pee pads, specially designed for vertical liquid absorption, to avoid messy cleanups from accidents.
2. Create a puppy potty training schedule.
For young pups, a schedule is needed to help form good habits and is one of the best ways to potty train a puppy. You shouldn’t rush into a schedule from the beginning, because puppies only a few weeks old may not be able to follow a super strict schedule.
The easiest way to start a potty training schedule is actually through a feeding schedule. This teaches the dog to expect food at a certain time, and it helps ease you as the dog owner into learning how to manage time while caring for your pup.
Small dogs have smaller bladders, so you can expect your pooch to want to relieve itself not long after eating. After eating, bring your pup towards the Doggy Bathroom so it becomes part of their routine. Over time, a potty training schedule can help build feeding and even exercise schedules.
3. How to recognize when a dog needs to "Go"?
When your puppy starts acting restless, walking in circles, and whining, it may be time to head to the Doggy Bathroom! Young puppies are still getting used to you, and it’s important to pay attention to signs indicating your dog needs to relieve itself. When you see them doing their little bathroom wiggle, place them inside the Doggy Bathroom to give them the cue that it’s okay to go.
After a few weeks of taking your dog out regularly, they may start lingering by the edge of the Doggy Bathroom as a way of signaling that they need to go. Visibly acting on these cues encourages your puppy to repeat this behavior in the future. When potty training indoors, leading your puppy to the Doggy Bathroom when they start showing signs helps teach them that this is the designated spot for bathroom breaks.
4. Ways to give your dog positive reinforcement.
Whether it’s doggy treats, playtime, or their favorite chew toy, always remember to reward your puppy for good behavior! Potty training is a process, and positive reinforcement encourages dogs to continue to use the Doggy Bathroom when they need to go and learn the signs to make their way there before it is too late.
