How To Potty Train A Puppy In Eight Easy Steps

Adopting a new puppy can be exciting! However,  that excitement may soon disappear if accidents become a common occurrence. Potty training a puppy can be one of the more difficult tasks associated with puppy ownership. It requires time and patience. Even when you think you have it down, accidents can still happen!

Here are eight easy steps to potty training your puppy:

1. Frequency is Key – The most important part of potty training is to take your puppy out frequently. This is because they have tiny bladders and cannot hold it as long as an adult dog can. Always take them out after a nap, eating or drinking, first thing in the morning, and before bed.

2. Establish Boundaries – When you take them outside, take them to the same spot every time. It may even be helpful to temporarily fence off a little spot just for them so they can’t run around the yard. You want them to know that when you take them to that spot, it is time to potty and not time to play.

3. Stay Focused – Do not play with your puppy while waiting for him or her to potty. This can be very difficult because puppies are so playful, but it will make training harder. Try to stay there until your puppy has done their business.

4. Have a Command – When you take your puppy to their designated spot, pick a word you will say when you want them to go potty. Say this word every time so they will learn what the command means.

5. Provide Positive Reinforcement – Always praise your puppy after they are done. Dogs want to please, and although they won’t understand why you’re so excited at first, eventually they will and they will start to do it to please you.

6. Be Patient – If your puppy has an accident, do not shame or harm them. This applies even more so if it’s after the fact since they have already forgotten and will not understand why you are mad. Instead, take them to their spot and use the command word so they know what it is you want them to do.

7. Use Aids – Unfortunately, you can’t be with your puppy all the time. Fortunately, there are many products out there to help with potty training. Puppy pads have been used for a long time to aid in potty training while you are away. An even better item that is similar to the pads is pet turf grass. It’s like a puppy pad but it looks and feels like grass. They are also less money in the long run because they are washable.

8. Prepare for Accidents – A great product is Nature’s Miracle Stain and Odor Remover. It works well on new and old stains and odors by using a bacteria-based formula that produces enzymes to help fight them on carpet and wood flooring. It also has a citrus scent. Inevitably, your puppy is going to potty in your house, so it’s great to be prepared.

Remember that potty training takes time, and the length of time it takes to potty train a puppy varies. A four-month-old puppy will probably catch on faster than an eight-week old puppy. Always have patience with your puppy during this training period, and enjoy them while they are young!

Have you ever potty trained a puppy? How did it go? Leave a comment and let us know!