Just like potty training a toddler, potty training a puppy or dog is a process. This process will not be complete overnight, and research suggests that potty training a puppy can take anywhere from 4 months to a full year.
If you are getting ready to potty train your dog, you will need patience, understanding, and consistency. In this guide, you will find valuable tips and tricks to help to make potty training your puppy a tad easier.
How to Begin
There are a few different methods that you can use to begin potty training a puppy. All of the guides suggest finding a consistent, small space to confine your dog to during the process. Some pet owners choose to use a crate; others prefer a leash. Some even decide to create a space in a bathroom or laundry area.
Once you have chosen your confined area, you will need to establish a predictable routine. Feed your puppy a consistent and healthy diet around the same time 3 to 5 times a day, and give him access to fresh water at all times.
Make sure to check for any weird complications, which can be symptoms of a chicken allergy in dogs. These and other allergies are common in dogs and you should pay attention and talk to your vet if he/she has any strange behaviors.
Your puppy will need to be taken outside first thing in the morning to use the restroom. Most puppies will need to be taken outside regularly. A common rule to go by is to take your pup outside every hour per months old it is; for example, a 3-month-old puppy should be capable of holding its bladder for 3 hours.
Lead your puppy to the same area of the yard each time you take him outside. The scent will likely trigger him to do his business once again.
Give your puppy or dog a treat each time they use the bathroom outside. Giving them a treat or praise will reinforce the positive behavior of going potty outdoors.
Learn the Signs
As you get further into the potty training process, you should begin to notice your dog communicating with you about needing to go outdoors. This timeline will be different for each dog, but once they start to get the hang of it, they will begin to let you know when it is time.
Look out for whining, barking, excited behavior, or even just proximity to the door. Anything that is abnormal behavior for your dog could be a tell that they are ready to go outside and use the bathroom.
Do’s and Dont’s of Potty Training
Do not punish your dog for having an accident inside the house. Try to remember that potty training comes with a massive learning curve for your dog, so there will be accidents. Accidents are how puppies learn. Instead of punishing your dog, simply clean up the mess with any cleaning resolution that does not contain ammonia.
If you catch your puppy or dog in the middle of an accident, establish an attention-getting sound. This can be a snap, a clap, or even a vocal command. Whatever sound you choose should be consistent, and it should be clear to your dog that they have made a mistake. Once the dog stops, take your dog outside to do his business. Praise him when he is finished to reinforce the positive behavior of using it outdoors.
Leaving your puppy alone outdoors to do their business is not the best practice when it comes to potty training. When you choose to stay outside with your dog, you can ensure that they get the reward for the positive behavior. This also eliminates the possibility of allowing the dog back indoors before he has had time to eliminate himself.
Final Thoughts
Potty training is a time consuming and often emotionally draining process. Pet owners who want to train their dogs to use the bathroom outdoors adequately need to be prepared for a potentially tricky process.
Remember that consistency and routine are the most important pieces of the potty training puzzle.