Potty training is one of the more stressful aspects of adopting a new puppy. Once your pup knows how to reliably use the bathroom outside, you can feel comfortable leaving them out of your sight for longer. So, how long does it take to potty train a puppy?
The answer depends on a few factors. Some dogs are simply faster learners than others and pick up on this skill within a few weeks. Additionally, breed matters; small dogs typically need to take potty breaks more often than larger dogs. Still, with the right training tips, you can have your puppy potty trained in no time.
For more information about Houston puppy training, reach out to Peace Love Dogs today.
General Potty Training Timeline
You can begin potty training puppies who are around eight to 10 weeks old. The process usually takes a few months.
During this time, your dog will quickly learn that they are supposed to go potty outside, but infrequent accidents may continue for some time. Eventually, your dog will be completely potty trained, and accidents will only happen if they have not been taken outside in several hours.
So, how long does it take to potty train a puppy? Potty training often follows a timeline like this:
- First 1-2 weeks: Bring your puppy outside frequently, ideally every 30 to 45 minutes. Be sure to take them outside immediately after meals and naps. Reward your puppy when they go potty outside using praise and treats.
- Next 3-9 weeks: Slowly increase the amount of time between bathroom breaks to 1.5 hours. Establish a routine where you take your dog outside at certain times of the day.
- 10+ weeks: Finally, increase the time between potty breaks to two or three hours. Continue rewarding your puppy with positive reinforcement for going potty outdoors.
Many dogs are not fully potty trained until they reach about a year old. Still, by this time, accidents should occur infrequently. If your dog consistently does their business in the house, you may need to start the training process over or ask a professional for help.
When fully trained, many adult dogs can go six or eight hours without a bathroom break. You should still try to take them out every four hours or so, just in case.
Tips To Help Potty Train Your Dog in Houston Faster
How long does it take to potty train a puppy? Many dogs are fast learners and pick up on potty training within a few months. No matter how fast of a learner your puppy is, you can follow a few tips to help solidify this skill in their mind.
Quickly Establish a Consistent Routine for Bathroom Breaks
Get into a routine of taking your puppy outside at all of these times:
- When you wake up
- After meals
- After playtime
- After naps
- Before bed
This routine will show your puppy that they always have another bathroom break coming. They will learn to wait until you take them outside and trust they will have the opportunity to use the bathroom soon.
Look for Signs That Your Puppy Is About To Have an Accident
Puppies often give some warning signs that they are about to go potty in the house. Your dog might start sniffing the ground, walking around in circles, pacing, or squatting.
During the first few weeks of potty training, keep a close eye on your pup and learn these signs. While you won’t be able to stop every accident, you can use these warning signs to quickly take your dog outside.
Continually Reward Pottying Outdoors
Dogs respond very well to positive reinforcement, which is the act of rewarding them for desirable behaviors. You can use positive reinforcement to teach everything from basic manners to complex skills.
Considering this, you should continue rewarding your dog well into the potty training process. Rewards will only continue forging and strengthening the connection in their mind.
Consider Using Crate Training
Many dog owners find success with crate training, which involves using a crate as a safe place for your puppy to rest and unwind. Dogs do not like using the bathroom in their crates and will avoid it as much as possible. You can put your puppy in a crate when they are out of your sight to help them learn to be by themself and avoid accidents.
Avoid Punishing Your Pup for Peeing in the House
Many pet owners mistakenly believe that punishment is an effective way to deter indoor pottying. Instead, harshly scolding your dog after they pee in the house may teach them not to want to use the bathroom in your presence. They may continue peeing in the house, out of your sight, and avoid using the bathroom in front of you when you take them outside.
Instead, when your dog has an accident, firmly say “No” and take them outside. You may need to let them out more frequently for accident management. Praise them every time they go potty outside, and they will begin to form a connection over time.
Use an Enzymatic Cleaner To Clean Up Accidents
When your puppy has accidents indoors, be sure to use an enzymatic cleaner to clean the area. This type of cleaner eliminates the smell from the flooring. If your dog can smell where they have previously used the bathroom, they may be more likely to go there again.
Hire a Professional Houston Trainer To Help
Some dogs need a bit more help with potty training. Don’t hesitate to hire a professional trainer if your dog isn’t picking up on this skill. They can use more elaborate tactics to help your dog learn to go potty outdoors and avoid accidents.
Schedule Puppy Potty Training in Houston Today!
How long does it take to potty train a puppy? With Peace Love Dogs, you can teach your pup this skill in a matter of weeks by following regular puppy development stages. Call us today at 346-639-3629, then read our recent post about ways to leash train your pup.
