So you have a new puppy in your home? Congratulations - what an exciting time for you and your family! Although this time is exciting, having a new puppy is a lot of work. There is so much to teach them when they come to you at just 8 weeks of age. You probably saw the title and are either prepping for house-training or struggling with potty training - either way, you are in the right place!
With all new puppies - the potty training process is one of many that is a necessary process for most.
Here are three tips to help you teach your puppy to go to the bathroom outside.
Tip #1: Be Prepared For Getting Outside.
You need to get outside often and sometimes in a hurry during this process. Set yourself up for success by compiling all of your necessary items in a basket near the door you will take your puppy out of. Prepare for the weather, have your shoes + jacket, as well as necessary items for the puppy (leash, treats).
Tip #2: Reinforce the Right Choices, Forgive Mistakes.
When you take your puppy outside to use the bathroom and they are successful, mark ‘yes’ for the elimination and feed them a treat immediately after they stop. Clean up accidents inside immediately. There is no need to scold your puppy - they are learning and in fact this should be expected along the way. Scolding your pup can actually just teach them not to go to the bathroom in front of you.
Tip #3: Take your Puppy out Often.
At first - think every 60-90 minutes while your puppy is being active. You should take your puppy out after they eat, drink, (during + after) play, + after waking up. Be proactive and use those activities as cues to take the puppy out.
House-training can be tiring and it isn’t the most fun process in the world - but staying consistent, being prepared, and having the right mindset will help you teach your puppy quickly.
If you have more questions about puppy training - connect with us for virtual or local services - we have a puppy program made just for you!