How to potty train a puppy
A simple routine, good timing and a lot of praise. Here's the schedule that gets most puppies clean in weeks, not months.
By Pawfessor Editorial TeamPublished 1 min read
Potty training is mostly about timing. Puppies don’t have much bladder control yet, so success comes from getting them outside before they need to go, and making going outside the best thing ever.
The golden times
Take your puppy out:
- First thing in the morning, straight away
- After every nap
- After eating and drinking, usually within 15 to 30 minutes
- After play and excitement
- Every 1 to 2 hours in between for young puppies
- Last thing at night
Signs your puppy needs to go: sniffing the floor, circling, whining, heading to a spot where they went before. If you see those, go out now.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to potty train a puppy?
Many puppies are mostly reliable by 4 to 6 months, though some take longer. Consistency matters more than age: the more accidents you prevent, the faster it goes.
How long can a puppy hold it?
A rough guide is their age in months plus one, in hours, during the day, but every puppy is different and young puppies need to go much more often after eating, playing and waking up.
Should I use puppy pads?
Pads can help in an apartment or for long workdays, but they can slow outdoor training because your puppy learns that indoors is fine. If you use them, keep them in one spot and move them toward the door over time.
Why does my puppy pee right after coming inside?
Usually they got distracted outside. Stay out a few minutes longer, keep it boring, and reward the moment they finish.
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