Acing Housetraining: What It Really Takes to Potty Train Your Puppy

Bringing a puppy into your home is an exciting adventure, but one of the first and most critical lessons they need to learn is housetraining. Successfully teaching your puppy where and when to do their business requires patience, consistency, and a good understanding of their behavior. In this guide, we'll explore what it truly takes to potty train your puppy. Let's dive into the essential tips that will help you and your furry friend navigate this important milestone.

Rule Out Medical Issues First

Before embarking on your housetraining journey, ensure there are no underlying medical problems causing potty accidents. If your puppy was previously housetrained but regresses, consult your vet to rule out any health concerns.

Understand Substrate Preference

Young puppies develop a substrate preference, which means they associate certain surfaces with the need to eliminate. Their brains record information about the feel and smell of the area they are going on; these surfaces will then stimulate them to go pee and poo as an adult. So, if your dog loves going on a carpet make sure you provide them with a similar surface to go on outside.

Regular Potty Breaks & Treats

Consistency is key, especially for young puppies. Frequent potty breaks to their designated spot are crucial. Accompany them to their potty spot and be sure to reward them with high-value treats, such as small pieces of boiled chicken, immediately after they finish eliminating for a period of 2-3 weeks. Consistently rewarding them with treats encourages them to eliminate even when their bladder is not completely full, reducing the chances of accidents inside the house. This is the primary reason for giving your puppy treats after they go potty.

Supervision is Essential

Prevent accidents by closely supervising your puppy. Whenever you can't actively watch them, confine them in a crate, tether them to you, or place them in a puppy-proof room. Reducing unsupervised time minimizes the chance of indoor accidents and helps them develop a preference for outdoor elimination.

Avoid Punishment

It's crucial to avoid punishing your puppy for accidents indoors. Unless you catch them in the act, they won't understand why they're being scolded, potentially causing fear of elimination in front of people. This fear might lead to more hidden accidents. If an accident occurs, use an enzyme cleaner to clean it up and move on.

Potty training your puppy may have its challenges, but with dedication, consistency, and a clear understanding of your pup's behavior, you can guide them towards housetraining success. Remember, patience and positive reinforcement go a long way in helping your furry friend learn this essential life skill. By following these tips and avoiding punishment, you'll ensure a smoother housetraining process for both you and your pup.