Potty training a puppy typically takes around 8 to 12 weeks with consistent supervision.
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it’s important to understand that, like human babies, puppies can’t fully control their bodily functions for the first few months. Adjusting your expectations to match your puppy’s abilities will help prevent frustration.
When Should I Start House Training?
House training begins with a consistent, patient owner and a solid plan. Before your puppy arrives, decide on a specific spot where you’d like them to go. This helps the puppy associate one area with elimination, making it less likely they’ll go elsewhere.
Be prepared for accidents by having a good cleaning product on hand. Puppies are sensitive to smells, and if they detect urine or feces, they may return to that spot.
How Old Should My Puppy Be to Start Potty Training?
You can begin potty training as soon as your puppy comes home, typically around 7 to 8 weeks old. However, they may not have full control over their bladder and bowels for some time. Puppies, like humans, need to learn the signals their bodies send them when it’s time to go.
To help with the process, stick to a regular schedule. Puppies usually need to go:
- At least once during the night (up to 5 months old)
- Right after waking up or napping
- After eating or drinking
- During or after playtime
- Every 1-2 hours
Consistency is key in helping your puppy recognize when they need to go outside.
Signs Your Puppy Needs to Go
Every puppy is different, but they often show predictable behaviors before they need to eliminate, such as pausing, sniffing, or circling. Once you notice these signs, take your puppy outside to their designated potty area immediately.
Housetraining 101: Key Tips
- Use a Leash
Always leash your puppy when taking them outside. This prevents them from getting distracted or running off. Stay with your puppy—don’t leave them to go out alone. - Go to the Same Spot
Take your puppy to the same spot every time to reinforce where they should go. Give them time—puppies may take a few minutes to completely empty their bladder. - Praise and Reward
When your puppy eliminates in the correct spot, praise them calmly and offer a small treat. Reward them near the spot so they associate the praise with the action. - Introduce a Cue
You can introduce a cue, like “go potty,” while your puppy is eliminating. Over time, they’ll associate the word with the behavior. - Teach the “Ask”
Eventually, you can train your puppy to signal when they need to go out. Some dogs naturally head toward the door or bark, while others can be taught to ring a bell.
What to Do When You’re Gone
Potty training can be disrupted if your puppy is left alone for too long. A good rule is that puppies can hold their bladder for their age in months plus one hour (e.g., a 4-month-old puppy can hold it for about 5 hours). If you’ll be gone longer, consider crating your puppy or leaving them in a confined area with a pee pad.
Housetraining Tips and Tricks
- Stick to a feeding schedule: Puppies often need to go 15-20 minutes after a meal. This gives you a good opportunity for successful potty trips.
- Take them out every two hours: Set a routine, especially in the early days. Set an alarm for nighttime potty breaks as well.
- Constant supervision is key: Try not to leave your puppy alone for more than 2-3 hours. If you must be gone longer, leave them in a small area with a designated potty spot.
- Stay calm during accidents: Don’t get upset or punish your puppy if they have an accident. Instead, clean it thoroughly and keep reinforcing good habits.
- Redirect mid-accident: If you catch your puppy starting to go in the wrong spot, make a noise to distract them and take them outside immediately.
- If they don’t go outside, try again: If your puppy doesn’t eliminate during a trip outside, confine them to a safe space for 15 minutes, then try again.
When Is My Puppy Fully House Trained?
Most puppies are considered fully house trained after 8 to 12 weeks without accidents. While some may be trained by 6 months, others can take up to a year. Each puppy develops at their own pace, so patience and consistency are essential for success.
Credit: Pet News Daily
