How Long on Average Does it Take to Potty Train a Puppy?

Owners must be consistent with puppies to shorten the potty-training time frame.

Potty-training a puppy can be a tedious experience, but some methods work more quickly than others. The time required is directly dependent on how consistent the owners are in their training methods.

Time Frame

When the training is done properly, only a few weeks are needed to potty-train a puppy, according to Drs. Foster and Smith Educational Staff. The process may take longer if owners are not consistent.

Methods

The fastest method is crate training, which involves putting the puppy in a crate when nobody is around to watch him. A slower method is using puppy-training pads that have chemicals that attract dogs to urinate on them.

Tips

To hasten the potty-training process, owners should use positive reinforcement and be consistent with letting dogs outside and using key words, such as "outside." The Humane Society recommends making a potty schedule. For every month of age, a dog can hold its bladder for one hour; for example, if your puppy is two months old, it can hold its bladder for two hours.

References

• Doctors Foster and Smith: Puppy Housetraining FAQs
• The Humane Society of the United States: Housetraining Puppies