Training Techniques

There are no set techniques for potty training because every puppy is different. Some catch on quickly while others take weeks to realize you mean business. Be patient, and think ahead to the joy of knowing your dog has been properly trained. You'll thank yourself years down the road. Even if you plan on placing your puppy outdoors in a fenced area, potty training for indoors is still a good idea. Training allows you to bond with your puppy and show him who's in control from an early age. It will also help with other forms of obedience training as the puppy grows older.

Be consistent. Choose your method and the words you will use to instruct and praise your puppy, and stick with your choices. Your entire family should be in tune with the method of training and the words used to teach your puppy. Some command examples include "go potty," "use it," or "relieve." Choose a simple, one or two word command that's easy to understand. Also, choose a command for praising your puppy, and use an upbeat voice with a pat on the head for a job well done. You might say, "good boy," "good girl," or "great job!"

When to Potty
Set a schedule for eating and pottying for your puppy and stick to it. Puppies' bladders are small and can only hold for so long. If they have an idea of when you'll take them out, they'll try to hold it for as long as they can. Take your puppy outdoors with in at least 10 minutes after every meal. Also, take him out every hour if less than four months old and then gradually increase the time in between. Older dogs can hold longer, but should still remain on a set schedule when possible. If your puppy has an accident in the crate, don't make a big deal of it. Just take him out and clean it thoroughly to remove the scent so he won't get used to the idea.

Always return to the same spot in the yard while crate training. Your puppy will recognize the scent and become familiar with the act of pottying. Use your potty command before AND after he goes so he'll become familiar with what the word means.