A Step by Step Guide to Train a Puppy to Pee Outside
Puppies are cute and cuddly, but if you’ve ever had to clean up an indoor mess, you know they can be quite a handful. One of the most vital parts of training a new puppy is housebreaking, or teaching your puppy to pee outside. Here’s a reliable guide on how to train a puppy to pee outside and maintain a clean and odour-free home.
1. Set a Routine
Puppies have small bladders and, naturally, they need to go more often. The general rule of thumb is that a puppy can hold its bladder one hour for each month of its age. Be consistent with the feeding schedule as this will largely determine when your puppy will need to pee. Generally, puppies need to go outside first thing in the morning, after meals and play, and before bedtime.
2. Choose a Specific Spot Outdoors
Having a specific location outdoors not only helps your puppy understand where it’s acceptable to pee but also makes it easier to clean up. This designated potty spot will start to smell like them, and that will encourage them to go there more frequently.
3. Use a Cue Word or Phrase
Start by introducing a cue word or phrase that your pet can associate with peeing. Words like “potty” or “go pee” are commonly used. As your puppy begins to pee, calmly say your keyword to create a correlation. Eventually, your puppy will start associating the command with the action.
4. Reinforce Positively
Whenever your puppy successfully pees outside, immediately reward them with a small treat or lots of praise—or both. This positive reinforcement will help your furry friend to understand they did something right.
5. Use an Indoor Dog Grass Toilet for Emergencies
Despite your best efforts, there will be times when your puppy can’t hold it until they get outside. For these instances, you can use a indoor dog grass toilet. This is a fantastic tool for times when you can’t be home to let your young pet outside. The indoor dog grass toilet can help your puppy make the right decision, even when you’re not there to take them out. Please note that this should be a last resort and not replace outdoor walks.
6. Consistency is Key
The last but probably the most important tip is to be consistent. Stick to the routine and the steps, be patient, and understand that accidents will happen. Mistakes are opportunities for learning and reinforcement of the correct behaviour. If your puppy has an accident indoors, promptly clean it up to remove the scent so they aren’t tempted to use the area again as their toilet.
Remember that training your puppy to pee outside isn’t an overnight process; it requires time, patience, and consistency. With these strategies, a few weeks of discipline and care can help your puppy successfully understand that outside is the place for them to do their business.
Happy puppy training!