Dos and Don’ts of Potty Training Puppies
Potty training a puppy can be an adventure to say the least. Some breeds take only 6 weeks to catch on, while others can take up to a year to grasp the concept. Don’t let potty training scare you. As long as you stay consistent and follow these tips and tricks, your puppy will be potty trained in no time.
Do – Stay Consistent
Consistency is important with all training. However, it is especially important in potty training puppies. Always take your puppy out to his designated relief area at the same times everyday. Puppies respond well to routine. This will help him get the hang of potty time.
Do – Be Patient
Potty training can test even the calmest of people. Just remember that puppies are babies and need lots of love and care – even when they have accidents. If you feel like giving up, just take a step back, breathe, and remember that this won’t last forever.
Do – Put Your Puppy on a Feeding Schedule
It’s easier to spot when your puppy needs to go potty when you know the last time he ate or drank. It is also helpful to put his food and water up about 3 hours before bedtime. This won’t starve or dehydrate him, but will make him less likely to make a mess during the night.
Do- Use Rewards
When your little one does go potty in their designated area, make it a huge deal. It’s important to make them feel like they just did they best thing ever. You can use treats or a nice walk around the block as rewards. Make sure he knows that going potty in the right place makes him the best puppy ever.
Do – Use Trigger Words
Trigger words can be helpful when training. Using a short phrase like “Potty Time” or “Let’s Go Outside” often will allow your puppy to eventually associate the phrase with the act of going potty. This isn’t necessary, but some have found it helpful.
Don’t – Be Inconsistent
Inconsistency can be your downfall when potty training a puppy. Puppies have such small bladders that an accident is bound to happen if they don’t go out in time. Find a schedule that works for you and your little one and stay consistent.
Don’t – Scold Harshly
The old-school way of shoving the puppy’s head in its ‘mess’ has been proven to be ineffective. In fact, the puppy is too young to comprehend what is going on or why this is happening. Not to mention, this is degrading and creates fear. We don’t want to create confusion in our little friends. Accidents happen – Just take a breath and remember that this puppy is only going to learn what you teach them.
Don’t – Give Up
Though it may seem like potty training your puppy is going to last forever, it will be over soon. As time goes on, it will get easier. As long as you stay consistent with your schedule and practice patience, your puppy will be a potty pro sooner than you think.