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Step 1
Clip a leash to your dog’s collar and tie the leash to your belt loop. You have to learn to read the dog’s signals so you can set him up to succeed. Having the dog tied to you at all times makes you pay attention to the dog and his behavior. When he starts getting antsy or tries to lift his leg take him outside immediately.
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Step 2
Take the dog outside every half-hour (for a small dog) to 2 hours (for a large dog) if he does not seem to show signs of wanting to go out. Stay outside with him (no need to leave him hooked to you if you have a fenced in yard) until he eliminates. Keep a handful of treats in your pocket. When he does his business outside, treat him immediately.
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Step 3
Reattach the dog to the leash and the leash to your belt loop once inside. Repeat step 2 for at least one week. At the end of the week, allow the dog to be unleashed from you, but only allow him to be in the same room you are in. Keep a close eye on him. You will still need to take him out at the time intervals prescribed in Step 2. If the dog can go all day without making a mistake, add some time to the intervals on the next day. Add 10 minutes for a small dog to a half-hour for a large dog. Each day there is no mistake, add time. You should not let the time exceed five to six hours.
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Step 4
During the night, keep the dog crated. The crate should be just large enough for the dog to stand up and turn around. Most dogs will not eliminate where they sleep unless they are in a large space and can lie down at the opposite end of the mess.
