HOW TO POTTY TRAIN YOUR PUPPY

By: Door Buddy Editors      |     Published: October 4, 2023

Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its share of challenges. One of the first and most important tasks you'll face as a puppy parent is how to potty train your puppy. 

The good news is by following our guide onthe best way to house train a puppy,  you will not only make the process more manageable but also strengthen the bond between you and your pup. So, get ready to “em-bark” on this adventure together and watch as your little furball transforms into a well-mannered, potty-trained companion.

TIPS TO HELP YOU POTTY TRAIN YOUR PUPPY

1. Start Early

Ideally, potty training a puppy should be started between 12 and 16 weeks of age, considering the individual needs of your pup.

Younger puppies have less control over their bladder and bowels, so it's essential to establish good habits right from the start.

2. Create A Routine

Dogs thrive on routines, so establish a consistent schedule for feeding, playtime, and potty breaks. Take your puppy outside first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime. Remember to praise and reward them when they do their business outside.

3. Choose A Designated Potty Area 

Select a specific spot in your yard where you want your puppy to go potty. Consistently taking them to the same place will help them understand what's expected.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement 

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for potty training. When your puppy successfully goes potty outside, offer lots of praise, treats, and affection. They'll quickly associate going outside with “paws-itive” experiences.

5. Watch For Signs

Learn to recognize your puppy's signals when they need to go, such as sniffing, circling, or whining. When you see these signs, you'll know it's time to take them outside.

6. Be Patient And Consistent

Accidents will happen, especially during the early stages of puppy housetraining. Never scold your puppy for accidents indoors, as it can create fear or confusion. Instead, clean up the mess without drawing attention to it and refocus on positive reinforcement.

7. Use A Command/Word

Choose a specific command for potty time, such as "Go potty" or "Do your business." Consistently using this command can help your pup understand what's expected when they're outside.

8. Controlled Space

Until your puppy is reliably housetrained, use baby gates or a product like the Door Buddy Door Strap or Door Buddy Door Prop to limit your puppy’s access to certain areas of your home, especially where you don’t want accidents to occur. This restricts them from wandering freely and helps establish a designated potty training area. It also helps protect any rugs or carpets!

Monitor progress and gradually increase freedom to ensure puppies become responsible members of the “furmily”.

9. Monitor Water Intake

Pay attention to when your puppy drinks water, especially in the evening. Limit their water intake a few hours before bedtime to reduce the likelihood of nighttime accidents.

HOW DOOR BUDDY HELPS POTTY TRAIN YOUR PUPPY

1. Controlled Access & Reducing Accidents

Door Buddy allows you to keep the door partially open, preventing full access to a room. This is useful for creating a barrier, so your puppy can't roam freely and make messes or have an accident in other areas of the house.

2. Supervision & Safety

You can monitor your puppy's behavior while they are confined to a specific space. This allows you to observe signs that they need to go potty and take them outside in a timely manner. It also ensures that your puppy stays safe and doesn't wander into potentially hazardous areas of your home.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: HOW TO POTTY TRAIN YOUR PUPPY

In conclusion, achieving success in puppy housetraining  hinges on starting early, positive reinforcement, and making sure you reward your puppy when they go potty outside. 

Patience is key as they grasp these essential skills so that both you and your puppy can reap the benefits of a successful potty training experience. Soon, you’ll be able to enjoy a clean home and a well-trained furry companion who knows exactly where and when to go potty.

Also remember to incorporate Door Buddy into your training routine, as it provides a controlled environment for your puppy throughout this learning process.

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