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Remember These 3 Things When Potty Training Your Dog

Updated: May 31, 2020

One of the frequently asked questions we receive from dog owners is, "How can I potty train my dog?" Housebreaking a puppy or adult dog may seem like a daunting task, but is actually relatively easy. Much like learning any new skill or adopting a new habit, you must be consistent with your pet in 3 things:

  1. Routine

  2. Patience

  3. Encouragement


Routine


Dogs are creatures of habit. When you establish a schedule of taking the dog out every 2 hours to the same spot to potty this provides clarity on where to go and when.


You can take Fido out for potty as frequently as you see fit or take turns with other members of the household so everyone is on board with potty training.


We always say "Go potty" when the time comes for our dogs to relieve themselves. They eventually associate pooping and peeing with this command.


Routine is essential in potty training because you need to keep showing dogs what you want them to do for a desired behavior to become ingrained.


Patience


While it can be frustrating when things don’t go your way, be sure to practice patience when housebreaking your dog because dogs do not know what you want them to do unless you show them first. Anticipate that during your potty training the dog will still make mistakes and have a few accidents here and there. They learn as you go on.


Encouragement


Encouragement and praise are needed to let your dog know that he/she is doing a good job. When the dog finally pees and poops in the designated area, we always say, "Good potty! Good dog!" This lets your dog know he or she is doing exactly what you wanted him to do.



PRO TIP: Limit your dog’s freedom while your dog is still learning when and where you want him to potty. Dogs should not be allowed to roam too much while potty training as this may result in more accidents. Set your dog up for success! One method in preventing your dog from roaming around too much is designating an area in the house where they can relax when you’re not interacting with them. This will serve as their own space. It can be on mat, in a crate or at the foot of the couch in the living room. When the dog has learned what you want them to do, they earn more freedom in the house. Until then limit it.



How long does it take to potty train a dog?


How long it takes to potty train a dog can vary. In general, the results depend on your dog’s learning curve and how consistent and diligent your household is in training. We like to give dogs a minimum of 2 weeks for potty training. Keep consistent in practicing Routine, Patience and Encouragement while potty training and we’re confident you can potty train your pup.



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Do you still feel like you would like some assistance with potty training? Because this is what we do. All of our dog training courses include potty training. Head to our Courses page to learn more.


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