Potty Training
Potty training is a process that requires time, patience, and consistency. Remember that setbacks are normal! This handout will guide you through the steps to set your dog up for success during the potty training process.
Step 1: Establish a Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. Establish consistent potty times to help your dog understand when and where to go.
During training, potty breaks should happen first thing in the morning, 10-15 minutes after meals, after naps, after playtime, before bed, and every 1-2 hours during the day (for puppies). Take your dog to the same potty spot each time. Consistency helps reinforce the behavior.
Step 2: Supervise and Confine
Until your dog is fully potty trained, supervision is key.
Keep an eye on your dog at all times when they are inside. Watch for signs they need to go, such as sniffing, circling, or whining.
Go out regularly- BEFORE they have an accident!
Step 3: Reward the Right Behavior
Go outside with your dog. Don’t just open the door and let them out.
Use a cue word or phrase like “Go potty” as they are about to eliminate.
Immediately reward with praise and a treat as soon as they finish. Timing is crucial!
Step 4: Handle Accidents Calmly
Accidents will happen. How you handle them is important.
Never punish your dog for an accident. This can create fear and anxiety around potty time.
Clean accidents thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove any lingering scent. Dogs are drawn to the smell of previous accidents. Thorough cleaning prevents repeat accidents in the same spot.
Step 5: Gradually Increase Freedom
As your dog starts to understand where to go potty, you can begin to give them more freedom around the house.
Start with small areas and gradually increase their access as they remain accident-free.
If accidents happen, reduce their freedom again and increase supervision.
Common Potty Training Challenges:
My dog has accidents right after coming inside.
Stay outside longer. Some dogs get distracted and forget to potty. Wait until they go before bringing them inside.
Try leashing them up and taking them outside without allowing any wandering until they potty. Some puppies get distracted by playtime and forget to “go”!
My dog has accidents when left alone.
Ensure your dog has had a chance to potty before being left alone.
Use a crate or a designated potty-proof area.
Use a potty pad if needed.
My dog isn’t signaling when they need to go.
Teach your dog to ring a bell at the door as a signal.
Put the bells near the door and point them out to your dog.
As soon as they bump their nose to the bells, open the door and go outside for a potty break. Don’t play outside until they’ve pottied.
Ask them to ring the bell before each potty break.
Eventually they will learn to ring the bell themselves when they need to go!
Potty Training for Puppies vs. Adult Dogs
Puppies may need more frequent potty breaks (every 1-2 hours).
Adult dogs may already have strong habits. Be patient if you’re retraining an older dog.
If your adult dog has recently begun having accidents inside, please visit your vet. If needed, consult a certified behavior consultant.
Additional Resources
Housetraining Tutorial- Training Positive
How to Potty Train a Dog- Dr. Sarah Richardson, Whole Dog Journal
How to Potty Train a Puppy- Every Dog Behavior & Training