There’s nothing better than the excitement and love that a brand new puppy brings! That is, except for the potty training plight that comes with it. (Especially if you’re learning how to potty train a puppy or dog in an apartment – where are my fellow millennials at?
But fear not, new pet parents! Here’s our how-to guide on how to potty train a puppy, and keep yourself cool, calm and collected on your new puppy journey!
HOW TO POTTY TRAIN A DOG OR PUPPY
BUILD A DAILY ROUTINE
Experts say that a pup can hold their bladder for one hour, for each month old they are. Taking them out every two hours is a safe bet, and helps to establish a healthy pattern. Be sure to also take them out as soon as they wake up, after eating/drinking, and during or after play.
PICK A SPOT
Familiarity is key! Bring your dog to the same spot on a leash, every time they need to relieve themselves. Pups are a quick study, and pretty soon they’ll be leading the way!
USE POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT DOG TRAINING
Many canines are very treat motivated! Try rewarding them with playtime, a walk, and/or a treat every time they relieve themselves outside to encourage good behavior!
STICK TO A FEEDING SCHEDULE
If you feed your pup on a schedule, they’ll begin to use the bathroom on a schedule. Try feeding them at the same times every day, in order to make house-training easier for everyone!
REMOVE THE WATER DISH BEFORE BEDTIME
Just like humans, if a dog drinks water before bed, it’s more likely that they’ll need to use the bathroom during the night. Remove their water dish a few hours pre-bed. Most puppies can sleep about 7 hours without needing to relieve themselves!
USE PEE PADS OR PUPPY PATCHES
This trick is especially handy for all of the apartment-dwellers out there. Put a pee pad in one consistent place – near the door is best – and if your pup starts to relieve themselves in the house, move them to the pad. You can also get a puppy patch for a porch or terrace to simulate grass and keep them on schedule when it proves too difficult to get outside!
WATCH FOR SIGNS
If you’re paying attention, pups have some tell-tale signs that they need to be taken out. Watch for these signals, and act accordingly:Â
- Circling
- Sniffing/licking groin area
- Sniffing around the home
- Antsy behavior
- Whining
- Pawing at the door
Remember: you and your pup are still getting to know each other and communication is key!
Pay attention to what your new furry friend is telling you, stick to a schedule, and reward good behavior with an I and love and you treat and we’re sure that you and your pup will be potty trained in no time!
