Unlocking the Key to a Reliable Puppy Potty Training Schedule

The exciting experience of bringing a new puppy home is often accompanied by the daunting challenge of housebreaking. The process of potty training your puppy doesn’t need to be a frustrating one. With patience, consistency, and a well-thought-out puppy potty training schedule, it can be a great stepping stone on the path to a satisfying relationship with your four-legged friend. And don’t worry, the ‘Doggy and the City’ website has a wealth of fantastic training resources to make the process easier.

Start early, but remember that puppies should only start potty training after they are seven weeks old when they can control their bladder. To help manage their bathroom breaks, establish a routine that coordinates with their feeding schedule. Feed your puppy three to four times a day, providing a bathroom break 10 to 20 minutes after each meal.

To create a functioning puppy potty training schedule, here’s a step-by-step guide to follow:

Step 1: Establish a Consistent Schedule

Consistency is the key when it comes to potty training your puppy. If you’re going to be out of the house for a while, make sure someone else can maintain the schedule. Regular feeding times will lead to predictable potty times. Make sure your puppy goes out first thing in the morning, before bedtime and after meals, play time, and naps.

Step 2: Pick a Potty Spot

Choose a specific outdoor spot for your puppy to use. Bringing them to the same spot every time will help them catch on faster. Always leash them and lead them there, praising them lavishly and offering a treat immediately after they complete their business.

Step 3: Use Cue Words

Designate specific phrases to signal that it’s time to go outside. When your puppy gets used to hearing “go potty”, they will associate that phrase with going to the bathroom, making the process easier.

Step 4: Understand Your Puppy’s Body Language

With time, you’ll understand your puppy’s signs. These might include sniffing around, scratching at the door, or becoming restless. When you see such behavior, it’s likely a sign that your puppy needs to go outside.

Step 5: Use Positive Reinforcement

The moment your puppy eliminates outside, reward them with praises and treats. This reinforces the connection between good behavior (eliminating outside) and rewards.

Step 6: Handle Accidents Calmly

Accidents will happen, that’s just part of the process. If you catch your puppy in the act, calmly interrupt them and take them outside. Never punish or yell at your puppy, as this may induce fear and make training more difficult.

In addition to these six steps, a range of other resources can assist with the potty training process. One such resource is the small dog potty solution offered on the Doggy and the City Website where you can find a comprehensive guide to successfully potty training our puppies.

Remember, patience and consistency are key when it comes to shaping the habits of your young fur friend. Dogs are creatures of habit, and once they get into a routine, they’ll stick to it, so stick to your puppy potty training schedule!