How to Potty Train Puppies

Puppies are fun, playful and adventurous, although they can be a challenge. One of the most difficult parts of puppy ownership is potty training. Some puppies pick up on the idea of housebreaking right away, while others take much longer. Potty training your new puppy can be a struggle, although it is well worth the time and effort.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Crate or large box
• Toys
• Treats

1. Determine where you want your puppy to potty. It is much easier on your puppy to associate one spot with his potty area, so a designated place in the yard will make the transition easier for him. Be sure to pick a quiet place free of debris to avoid injury.

2. Place your puppy's crate or a large box where he can be closely monitored. The crate and the box both serve to house and contain your puppy while he is resting, and they need to be large enough to avoid cramping your pup. During the potty training, you will need to keep a very close eye on your puppy to help him avoid accidents, and containing him will help speed the process along.

3. Feed your puppy on a set schedule. Dogs have a very predictable digestive system, and most pups will need to potty with an hour of a meal. Monitoring your pup's food and water intake will help you better predict when he needs to go outside.

4. Take your puppy to the designated potty area on a regular schedule. After meals and upon wakening are the most frequent times your pup will have to go, although a trip outside a minimum of every two hours will encourage him to go outside.

5. Give your puppy ten to fifteen minutes of quiet time to use the potty. Give her the potty command and allow her to do her business without interruption. Do not talk to, play with, or touch your pup while waiting. Any distractions will make it difficult for her to associate with the potty command with the act itself, so leave her alone.

6. Praise your puppy when she does potty. Tell her "good potty" in a happy tone of voice and pet her for a job well done. A small treat or two is also a good reward for a food-motivated puppy.

7. Monitor your puppy closely while she is in the house and repeat the potty training routine on schedule. Watch your pup for signs of needing to go out, such as sniffing or squatting. If you notice your pup showing the urge to go, take him out immediately and praise generously once he goes.

Tips & Warnings

• Be consistent. Your puppy is young and it will take time to complete his potty training. It can take up to a year for some dogs to be completely housebroken, so be patient.
• Never physically punish your puppy when he has an accident. His body is still growing and accidents do happen on occasion.

Resources

• Puppy Potty Training
• Housebreaking

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