You’ve stumbled out of bed, ready to put on the pot of coffee that will bring you to life, when you step into a cold puddle left by your puppy. Potty training a youngster can be difficult, especially if you have no idea where to begin. Here are some tips to get started with potty training, provided by pets.webmd.com.
Getting started
In most cases, your puppy is ready to start potty training as soon as you bring them home. Potty training typically takes four to six months, which means you’ll be spending a lot of time outside with your pup as they get used to this new system.
Define a space
As your puppy is learning how to control their bladder and bowel movements, it’s best not to let them roam freely around the house. Keep them confined to a specific location, like a crate or room, and as they learn, slowly give them more freedom.
The potty timetable
You’ll be making plenty of trips outside as your pup potty trains. Make it easy on you both by setting up a consistent schedule, such as:
- After waking up
- After naps
- Before, during and after playing
- 10-20 minutes after eating
- Before bedtime
While these won’t be the only times your puppy will need to go out for bathroom breaks, it’ll certainly cut down on the number of accidents.
Diet is a factor
Potty training means setting up a routine for your pup’s body. According to cesarsway.com:
“Our puppy’s digestive tract is extremely quick and efficient. Five to 30 minutes after the puppy eats, she’ll want to defecate. So with a consistent eating schedule, and your attention to the clock, your puppy can maintain regular trips outside.”
Dealing with accidents
There are bound to be accidents, even with fast learners. If you catch the pup in the act, clap loudly to show them it’s bad, and then take them outside to finish up. Be sure to give them a treat or praise afterward.
Find evidence but not the dog? Don’t yell at your pup or rub their nose in the evidence. Puppies won’t understand what’s happening. The best thing to do is clean it up and call it a day.
Think of the benefits
It may take months to perfect, but potty training your pup will be one of the smartest decisions you’ll make as a pet owner! Having your dog go to the bathroom outside not only means you’ll stumble into fewer accidents, it also means you’ll have a much happier dog. Which makes a happier owner.
