Puppy Potty Training

Puppy potty training doesn't have to be a mystery if you understand how your puppy's brain works, and if you know the basics of potty training. Also, remember that the different dog breeds can vary in the length of time they take to be obedience trained.

Saying that – I don't want to dumb it down too much, as it is still one of the most common causes of irritation amongst dog owners.

So how you choose to undertake the process is up to you, all I can advise you is to do your research properly, and to perhaps read the advice that follows below.

Your Puppy's View of The World

Your puppy is young, and although his instincts are to please you as his master, at this age he is still more eager to focus on being carefree and happy. Go along with that – after all that's what makes puppies so adorable.

But don't hope for too much in the way of obedience training. All you should aim to do at this stage is to encourage the right behavior and build the correct associations in his little brain – in preparation for the future.

Bear in mind throughout the entire process that he does want to please you and he doesn't ever do things just to irritate you.

Puppy Potty Training DO's & DON'Ts

• DO show him where his designated potty area is.
• DO praise him every time he does his 'jobbie' on the designated potty area.
• DO be patient with him when he has an accident – at this stage of his maturity, it's likely that it's your fault you didn't take him to the potty in time.
• DO pay attention to the tell-tale signs of him needing the loo – pacing restlessly around, walking in circles, sniffing nervously, and perhaps trying to alert you (although this last one doesn't happen very often t this stage).
• DO take him to the potty area:
  • After every meal.
  • After prolonged periods of play or excitement.
  • When he wakes up from napping.
  • Before you put him to bed.
  • And generally every 15 to 20 minutes at first until he gets used to going a little less often.
• DON'T shout or hit him when he's had an accident. Instead pick him up, and take him to his toilet area. If he finishes his 'business' there, praise him for a being a "good boy". Then clean up the accident properly and move on.
• DON'T expect him to open doors himself, or to even scratch on them to alert you if his potty area is outside. Remember that the responsibility of housebreaking your puppy lies completely in your hands at this stage.
• DON'T lose your patience.
• DO be consistent with your requirements towards him – or you will confuse him.

OK, so now you have the tools of the 'trade' all you need to do is follow through – hey presto!