Potty Training Success: A Comprehensive Guide for Your New Puppy

Introducing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience. To establish a successful and harmonious relationship, it is crucial to implement a structured potty training routine. Think of your puppy as an 18-month-old child and apply these guiding tips to ease the process and create a positive environment for both you and your new companion.

Morning Routine

Start the day by saying something like "go out?" and take the puppy out immediately when he wakes up. Use a harness to avoid pulling on the neck. Head to a dedicated area for bathroom breaks and carry the puppy if necessary. Bring enticing treats and stay calmly in place until the puppy pees. Avoid talking to maintain focus. Immediately reward with praise and treats when he's done. Ensure he also has the opportunity to poop and repeat praise and reward.

Daily Routines

Take the puppy out every two hours and always on a leash, especially after play, sleep, meals, or if he has been in his playpen. Observe signs like sniffing or circling and act promptly. If accidents happen indoors, avoid scolding or punishment; clean quietly and avoid negative reactions. Keep a daily record of pee and poop times to adjust the routine to the puppy's needs.

Evening Routine

Take the puppy for the last bathroom break before bedtime and avoid late feeding. Provide access to water if it doesn't lead to play or excessive drinking. Use high-quality dog food and feed after the first morning walk. For small puppies, try to avoid feeding two hours before bedtime. We advocate for varied feeding times; read more about it here.

Use high-quality dog food - less waste, less chance of eating poop as he gets more nutrition from the food! I recommend raw food/BARF, which you can read more about here.

Important Notes

Keep the puppy on a leash outdoors to facilitate immediate rewards after bathroom breaks. It's crucial to emphasize that one should never press the puppy's nose into urine or use any intimidating methods when accidents happen indoors. Such actions only lead to the puppy holding back until you're not around, making the training more challenging and time-consuming. Additionally, it damages the puppy's trust in you.

Remember, scolding or instilling fear during indoor accidents can have adverse effects on the potty training process. It's essential to avoid these negative reactions to ensure the puppy feels secure and comfortable learning from you. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and consistency.

Always take the puppy out after:

• Nap time

• Mealtime

• Playtime

• Exciting events like visits from guests

• Before/after a car ride

Observing and recording your puppy's bathroom routines will help you understand and get a feel for when it might be time for the next one. If you notice any setbacks in the potty training journey, seeking advice from a vet can provide valuable insights into potential health issues.

Potty training is a crucial process that demands patience, understanding, and a commitment to positive reinforcement. Building a strong bond between you and your puppy is the ultimate goal, and treating each step with care and positivity will contribute to a successful training experience.

//Mirabelle Wesden