If you want to enjoy owning a puppy, you are going to have to face different challenges. As for the challenge of potty training dogs, it is important to be patient and to start as soon as possible. Potty training can be a long process, depending on the dog, breed, and the time you have available to spend training.

Puppies are not able to control the muscle that controls urination and defecation until they are around 12 weeks old. Before this time, it is best to allocate your puppy to a single area of the house where is easy to clean if you do not want your puppy to soil everywhere.

Use a crate

One option to start potty training dogs is by using a dog crate. Puppies tend to enjoy being in a crate as it makes them feel safe and secure. As they do not like to soil the area where they sleep, they soon learn to hold on. Always make sure you take your puppy outside as soon as you release him. The crate should never double up as a punishment area, as your puppy will not distinguish between time-out and the need to stay in the crate at times.

Although dogs are den animals, they need something to occupy their minds. Puppies should not be left in a crate all day and all night; this will get them to feel depressed and despondent. If you are unable to return home in the afternoon, find someone who can to spend some time with your puppy and take him for a walk.

Potty training dogs outdoors

In their earliest days, puppies will need to go out around six times a day, especially after eating or drinking as a full stomach puts pressure on the bladder and colon, or after they have just woken up. Look out for signs that your dog needs to relieve himself such as when he’s walking around in circles, sniffing, and starting to squat. In such case, pick him up immediately and take him outside.

A good method to train dogs to relieve themselves outdoors is by using training pads. These pads have a scent that puppies find attractive. The best place to position training pads is near a door leading outside or to the yard. Your puppy will soon learn to go to where you’ve placed the pads to alert you each time he needs pee.

Use positive reinforcement

Use a verbal command in a positive tone of voice. Your dog will soon learn what you want him to do, and the verbal command will teach him to go potty in different spots such as when you are away from home. Pet and praise your puppy every time he does as asked. The thing your dog wants most is to please you, and this will help him feel encouraged.

Take your dog outside every few hours. If he does not go potty but simply lies down in the yard, it is best to take him back inside and try again later, otherwise, you may be loose time waiting. When you are taking him outside to go potty, do not play with him so that he begins to understand the real intent.

Potty training dogs can be tiresome and frustrating, but it will be well worth your efforts. Once your puppy is trained properly, you will have a well-mannered dog for life.