Is your puppy driving you crazy? Teaching them to go to the bathroom outside instead of all over your carpet seems to be taking forever? Well, never fear - there are ways to potty-train your puppy much more quickly.
While no puppy will instantly understand that they are supposed to go potty outside, many dog owners make some common mistakes that actually slow down the process of potty-training their puppy. By sticking to these eight simple tips, you can make sure the process is as smooth, quick and easy as possible - and your puppy will be leaving your carpets alone in no time.
- Choose a designated potty area: Pick an area in your yard that you would like your puppy to use as their designated potty spot. Bring them to this spot each time they need to go to the bathroom. By doing this, they will more quickly begin to associate that area outside with going potty.
- Set a schedule: Feed your puppy at regular times throughout the day and take them out to their designated potty spot immediately after eating. Puppies usually need to go to the bathroom about once per hour, so take them out frequently. The Humane Society recommends taking your puppy outside every two hours to begin with.
- Clean inside accidents thoroughly: On the occasions when your puppy does go to the bathroom indoors, make sure you clean thoroughly enough to get rid of the scent. If your puppy can smell the lingering effects on your floor or furniture, they will return to that spot to use it again and again.
- Reward good behavior: Whenever your puppy goes to the bathroom outside, be sure to give them lots of praise and a treat. This will reinforce good behavior and help them learn that going potty outside is a good thing.
- Don't use punishment: Yelling or hitting your puppy will not teach them anything and will only serve to make them afraid of you. If you catch your puppy in the act of going to the bathroom inside, simply pick them up and take them outside to their designated spot. If you can't catch them in the act, then do not punish them upon finding it - they will not understand what they have done wrong.
- Be consistent: It is important to be consistent when potty-training your puppy. Everyone in the family should follow the same rules and use the same potty spot. Confusing your puppy will only make the process take longer.
- Be prepared: Always keep a leash on your puppy when they are inside so that you can take them outside quickly if needed. It is also a good idea to keep some plastic bags on hand in case of accidents.
- Have patience: While these tips will speed up the process, potty-training a puppy still takes time and patience. Do not get discouraged if there are setbacks along the way. If you stick with it, eventually your puppy will learn where they are supposed to go to the bathroom.
Eight simple tips for potty-training your puppy! sounds easy enough, right? By following these guidelines, you can minimize the mess & have your furry friend potty-trained in no time. Good luck and happy housetraining!
