Potty Training your Puppy

The excitement and joy of a new addition to the family is an awesome experience! It’s important to buy a crate immediately for your puppy to begin house breaking your new family member. We recommend that you purchase a crate big enough to maintain the puppy at full grown status, with dividers and dual doors. Reduce the size of the crate to be big enough just for the puppy to be able to turn around in, but no bigger. Dogs are pack animals and desire a den like setting, so don’t be concerned about the cramp area. Most dogs and puppies instinctively won’t urinate or soil their living area — that’s the purpose of a very small area. To help a new puppy who has recently left the litter, add a cuddle stuff toy to simulate a litter mate for comfort and loneliness. 

The biggest mistake is allowing your puppy to spend time outside the crate, and giving them an opportunity to use the bathroom in the house instead of outside. For the first few weeks, keep the puppy in the crate at all times. Only allow the puppy out directly after feedings, and in 30-45 minute intervals (increasing the duration of the crate time as needed), taking them outside to relieve themselves in a designated area where you wish for them to go potty. Puppy pads are also an alternative method. Use a catch phrase so your puppy knows that it’s time to use the bathroom, like “potty” or “outside.” Congratulate the puppy for a good job immediately after they relieve themselves. 

This is your opportunity to bond and play with your new best friend. We recommend spending 10 to 15 minutes with him then immediately return the puppy to its crate. Apply a large blanket over the crate at night and while you are at work to help the puppy relax and sleep. Limit the amount of water you give the puppy in the early stages, because their kidneys haven’t fully developed and they may not be able to hold water long periods of time. Never leave food and water in the crate in the beginning, even if they didn’t eat. Remove it and try and again later.

Housebreaking a new puppy is the biggest mistake and challenge that new owners face. Every dog is different. Some pick up potty training quickly, and others may take longer. Be patient.

Never reprimand a puppy by putting their nose in the relieved area. The puppy will equate this to a bad experience and struggle with learning. Always chastise the puppy with a stern “no” or “bad puppy,” and immediately pick them up and rush them to the right area. Although, I understand it’s a little too late now… 

If you follow these steps, are disciplined and keep a regular routine, a dog can be potty trained within a few days. Some may take several weeks or maybe even a couple of months. 

YouTube has some great videos on “How to potty train your puppy.”

Good luck —
The Infamous Team Reed Family!