From wagging tails to their first “awroo!”, there are so many cherished moments of new pet parenthood. At Sit Now Stay , we know that potty training isn’t among our top ten new puppy moments! Teaching your canine companion the finer points of housebreaking can be a trial of patience for our Kansas City fur-moms and dads.
Consider these simple tips for taking the stress out of potty training so you can get back to more snuggles, puppy kisses, and belly rubs.
1.) Create a Schedule
Puppies, just like toddlers, thrive on consistency and repetition. Develop a routine based around your dog’s anticipated potty breaks. This will help prevent accidents and train your new best friend on a schedule. A good rule of thumb is to take your dog out to potty immediately after waking up and 10-15 minutes after each meal.
Generally speaking, puppies are able to control their bladder for one hour per month of age. This means if your pup is two months old, they can go about two hours without a potty break.
For puppies and small breeds, you’ll want to work in several other ” need to potty? ” moments throughout the day, even if your tiny friend hasn’t asked to go outside yet. Small bladders require lots of breaks to save your floors and your patience!
Older dogs can often go a bit longer without a scheduled break. However, if you’ve adopted an adult dog, it’s a good idea to get them used to the household schedule.
2.) Crate Training to Potty Perfection
Dogs are pack animals and rely on their human parents to provide them with a safe, warm den. Crate training is a key part of the housebreaking process. Think of the crate as your dog’s safe space. Add a few touches of home, like their favorite blanket and cuddle toy. This will help them associate familiar smells with a sense of security.
Dogs are naturally clean animals with an instinctive tendency to keep their den clean. Crate training allows your pup to understand the difference between indoor spaces and outdoor spaces — and which ones are acceptable to relieve themselves in!
Be sure to pay attention to the size of the crate. While it’s important for your best furry friend to have sufficient space, too much space can be overwhelming and may lead your puppy to designating a potty corner. A good crate should be snug enough to feel like home.
3.) Puppy Pads, Potty Commands, and Favorite Trees
Don’t be afraid to use training tools! Puppy pads are a great way to gradually wean your dog towards going outside. Designating a command such as “
go potty ” can also be helpful in encouraging your pet to adopt a routine. Take your dog to the same spot each time to establish a sense of familiarity. Your dog will be naturally drawn to a favorite patch of grass, tree, or dirt p.ile if they’ve already left their scent previously.
Don’t forget to reward them for a job well done! Small treats are perfect for training, along with plenty of praise and positive reinforcement.
4.) Leave it to the Professionals
Even the best pet parents need a break! Professional dog training and puppy classes are a fantastic way to learn the basics, as well as help your new pet socialize, bond, and gain lifelong obedience skills. Our expert staff are certified in AVECCT-VTS, IACP, CCPDT, and have completed the Michael Ellis School for Dog Trainers.
We know every pup is special. That’s why we’ve implemented custom training solutions to get to fit your dog. Contact our canine experts today and get started on your free training consultation!
