Potty training your dog
From puddles on the floor to a dog who does it outside: a challenging but achievable adventure.
A puppy who pees everywhere. A rescue who doesn't know the rules yet. House training requires consistency, timing and a good dose of patience. The good news: almost every dog can learn. Here's how to do it smart—without punishment, with success.
⏰ Timing is everything
Puppies and young dogs need to go often: after sleeping, after eating, after playing. Take your dog outside at those moments. Reward immediately when he does his business outside—with a treat and enthusiastic praise.
Keep a fixed schedule. Every morning, after every meal, before bed. The more predictable, the faster your dog picks up the pattern.
✅ Steps that work
- 1. Choose one spot outside where your dog may go. Always go there. Scent helps—a previous pee attracts the next one.
- 2. Use a word or phrase ('go potty', 'outside') while he goes. That way you teach him to pee on command later—handy for travel or before bed.
- 3. No punishment for accidents indoors. Clean up without fuss. Punishing slows the learning process and can cause anxiety.
- 4. Stay patient. Some dogs are house trained within weeks, others need months. Rescues may have a past—give them time.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Waiting too long before going outside, rewarding too little, or punishing for an accident. Also: leaving the dog alone too long without a chance to go out. House training is about providing opportunities and rewarding consistently.
Support dogs getting a fresh start
Saved Souls gives rescues a second chance. Your donation helps feed, care for and help them adjust to a new life.
Donate now