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8 Dog Potty Training Tips-A Basic Guide 

February 02, 20244 min read

8 Dog Potty Training Tips

Potty training is one of the first and most important lessons you'll teach your new furry companion. While it may seem daunting at first, with patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can successfully guide your dog to become a well-mannered and house-trained pet. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore expert tips and strategies to help you navigate the potty training process with ease, ensuring a clean and happy home for both you and your canine companion.

Understanding Your Dog's Needs

Before diving into potty training, it's essential to understand your dog's natural instincts and bodily cues. Dogs have an innate desire to keep their living space clean, making them naturally inclined to eliminate away from their sleeping and eating areas. Additionally, puppies have limited bladder and bowel control, requiring more frequent potty breaks compared to adult dogs. By recognizing these basic principles, you can set realistic expectations and develop a tailored potty training plan for your dog.

Establishing a Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to potty training success. Establishing a regular feeding schedule helps regulate your dog's bowel movements, making it easier to predict when they'll need to go outside. Take your dog out to potty first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, and before bedtime, as well as every few hours throughout the day, especially during the initial stages of training. Praise and reward your dog enthusiastically whenever they eliminate in the desired spot, reinforcing the desired behavior.

Choosing a Potty Spot

Designate a specific potty spot in your yard or outside area where you want your dog to eliminate. Lead your dog to this spot on a leash each time you take them out to potty, using a consistent verbal cue such as "go potty" to encourage them to do their business. Avoid using areas where other dogs have eliminated, as the scent may attract your dog to repeat the behavior. Be patient and wait for your dog to finish before offering praise and rewards.

Using Crate Training

Crate training can be a valuable tool in potty training your dog, as dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area. Choose a crate that is large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so spacious that they can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another. Use the crate to confine your dog when you're unable to supervise them closely, such as overnight or when you're away from home. Take your dog out for potty breaks immediately upon letting them out of the crate.

Recognizing Signs of Readiness

Pay close attention to your dog's body language and behavior for signs that they need to go potty. Common signs include sniffing or circling, whining or pacing, or suddenly stopping play or activity. If you notice any of these cues, take your dog outside to their designated potty spot immediately. Be proactive in anticipating your dog's needs, especially during the initial stages of training when accidents are more likely to occur.

Handling Accidents

Accidents are an inevitable part of the potty training process, so it's essential to remain patient and consistent in your approach. If you catch your dog in the act of eliminating indoors, interrupt them with a firm "no" and immediately take them outside to their potty spot. Clean up accidents thoroughly using an enzymatic cleaner to remove any lingering scent that may attract your dog to repeat the behavior. Avoid punishing or scolding your dog for accidents, as this can create fear and confusion.

Gradually Extending Freedom

As your dog becomes more reliable with their potty training, gradually increase their freedom and access to other areas of the house. Supervise your dog closely during this transition period and be prepared to intervene if needed. If your dog has a setback or starts having accidents again, don't be discouraged—simply revert to a more structured routine and reinforce the basics of potty training.

Seeking Professional Help

If you're struggling with potty training or your dog is showing signs of resistance or anxiety, don't hesitate to seek guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess your dog's individual needs and develop a customized training plan to address any challenges or obstacles you may be facing. With their expertise and support, you can overcome potty training hurdles and set your dog up for long-term success.

Conclusion

Potty training is a fundamental aspect of responsible dog ownership, requiring patience, consistency, and understanding. By following expert tips and strategies, you can effectively teach your dog where and when to eliminate, fostering good habits and a clean, happy home environment. Remember to be patient, praise your dog for their successes, and handle accidents with grace and understanding.

With time and dedication, you and your furry companion will master the art of potty training together, paving the way for a lifetime of companionship and mutual trust.

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Catherine Winfree

Catherine Winfree is a nationally certified health and wellness coach, medical massage therapist, animal communicator, and flower essence practitioner. Supporting people and their pets to live in harmony with customized flower essence blends is the basis of her Calm Animal Solutions and Custom Essence Blends businesses.

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No More Fear of Garbage Trucks

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No More Begging to be Carried Downstairs

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Stay Relaxed and Calm with all Noises

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Comfort with all Noises

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Confidence Going Down the Stairs

I always know when the garbage truck is in the neighborhood because my dog goes and hides in the upstairs bathroom.

One week later:

I was sure the garbage truck had not come because Shay stayed downstairs all day. Yet, I noticed my neighbors taking their garbage cans back to their houses. I went and checked mine, and sure enough, it was EMPTY! I’m so glad Shay does not feel the need to hide from the garbage truck anymore.

— GM

Pepper would let me know hours in advance that a storm was on the way. And she always went inside when I was blowing leaves.

One week later:

I was surprised to see a thunderstorm rolling in. I was used to Pepper letting me know hours ahead that a storm was on the way. She was curled up on the couch, sleeping through the whole storm. I also noticed she is content to be outside with me while I’m blowing leaves.

— VB

I know I created a problem when I started carrying Precious down the stairs instead of letting her manage the steps on her own. Several times a day she would whimper at the top of the stairs, waiting for me to carry her down.

One week later:

I was able to ignore the whimpers and noticed Precious had come down the stairs to where I was on her own.

— EW

No More Fear of Garbage Trucks

dog laying on wood floor lookin up

GOAL:

Stay Relaxed and Calm with all Noises

I always know when the garbage truck is in the neighborhood because my dog goes and hides in the upstairs bathroom.

One week later:

I was sure the garbage truck had not come because Shay stayed downstairs all day. Yet, I noticed my neighbors taking their garbage cans back to their houses. I went and checked mine, and sure enough, it was EMPTY! I’m so glad Shay does not feel the need to hide from the garbage truck anymore.

— GM

No More Fear of Thunder and Leaf Blowers

outdoor photo of white dog with eyes closed sensing something to the left

GOAL:

Comfort with all Noises

Pepper would let me know hours in advance that a storm was on the way. And she always went inside when I was blowing leaves.

One week later:

I was surprised to see a thunderstorm rolling in. I was used to Pepper letting me know hours ahead that a storm was on the way. She was curled up on the couch, sleeping through the whole storm. I also noticed she is content to be outside with me while I’m blowing leaves.

— VB

No More Begging to be Carried Downstairs

brown and white dog laying at the top of the stairs

GOAL:

Confidence Going Down the Stairs

I know I created a problem when I started carrying Precious down the stairs instead of letting her manage the steps on her own. Several times a day she would whimper at the top of the stairs, waiting for me to carry her down.

One week later:

I was able to ignore the whimpers and noticed Precious had come down the stairs to where I was on her own.

— EW

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No More Jumping on the House Guests

Improved Dog Training and Behavior

From Car Sick Dog to Traveling Dog

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Calm and Confident Greeter

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Come Quickly and Steady Leash Walking

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Stay Relaxed During Car Rides

I'm seeing signs of change in Ginny, every time I sat down, I realized she wasn't jumping on my lap for attention. I've left the house about four times; when I return, she doesn't jump on me until I've put all my stuff down and start petting the dogs.

One week later:

I opened the door to find three dogs, each with all four paws on the floor, wagging their tails. Nobody was jumping on me or winding around my feet, tripping me.

— JU

I wasn’t expecting much, but the essences have really helped our dog.

One week later:

I noticed Max was responding to the first call to ‘come’. He was pulling less on the leash when he was distracted by a squirrel.

— MB

We are an on-the-go-family. Our new rescue dog, Sparrow, had a nervous stomach, which made traveling miserable for him.

One week later:

I am so pleased to report Sparrow is much more relaxed in the car—he goes with us everywhere!

— EW

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(e.g. Bach Flower Essences) for calming their anxiety. Custom blended flower essences are natural pet calming products.

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Calm Animal Solutions offers customized, natural remedies for dog anxiety, and are calming for cats. Plus, we create blends for horses, small animal pets, birds, poultry, reptiles, and fish.

©2024, Catherine Winfree. All rights reserved.

Mandatory FDA Notice: The statements made regarding Calm Animal Solutions have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any animal disease. Although the ingredients in Calm Animal Solutions are generally regarded as safe, you are encouraged to consult your veterinary before using any essence product (such as Bach Flower Essences, for example).

...more PRAISES

No More Jumping on the House Guests

brown and white dog with a happy looking face_pink background

GOAL:

Calm and Confident Greeter

I'm seeing signs of change in Ginny, every time I sat down, I realized she wasn't jumping on my lap for attention. I've left the house about four times; when I return, she doesn't jump on me until I've put all my stuff down and start petting the dogs.

One week later:

I opened the door to find three dogs, each with all four paws on the floor, wagging their tails. Nobody was jumping on me or winding around my feet, tripping me.

— JU

Improved Dog Training and Behavior

man with dark hair and facial hair crouched down and leaning in close to a white dog with a chest leash

GOAL:

Come Quickly and Steady Leash Walking

I wasn’t expecting much, but the essences have really helped our dog.

One week later:

I noticed Max was responding to the first call to ‘come’. He was pulling less on the leash when he was distracted by a squirrel.

— MB

FROM CAR SICK DOG TO TRAVELING DOG

close up photo or older reddish-brown dog

GOAL:

Stay Relaxed During Car Rides

We are an on-the-go-family. Our new rescue dog, Sparrow, had a nervous stomach, which made traveling miserable for him.

One week later:

I am so pleased to report Sparrow is much more relaxed in the car—he goes with us everywhere!

— EW

A Trained Animal Communicator Connects with Your Pet

With every order, a trained animal communicator connects with your pet to choose the right blend of flower essences (e.g. Bach Flower Essences) for calming their anxiety. Custom blended flower essences are natural pet calming products.

all-natural vegan and organic ingredients icon
unscented, oil-free, non-herbal, CBD-free and fragrance-free icon
icon showing molecular representation of water against a blue water drop
flower essences icon with blue flowers in the middle
icon showing molecular representation of vegetable glycerin against a blue carrot background

Mandatory FDA Notice: The statements made regarding Calm Animal Solutions have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any animal disease. Although the ingredients in Calm Animal Solutions are generally regarded as safe, you are encouraged to consult your veterinary before using any essence product.

logo with artistic drawing of a cat, a dog and a horse

©2024, Catherine Winfree. All rights reserved.