Figuring out how to potty train your dog fast isn’t easy and will require some hard work. While it can appear to be a daunting and arduous task, potty training a puppy can be manageable with persistence and consistency. You’ll find that establishing a routine is key when learning how to potty train a dog fast. You just have to remember that the routine you set in the beginning stages is the key to training success, saving you from a grim future of cleaning up their soiled messes on your indoor flooring time and time again.
There are multiple methods teaching you how to potty train a puppy. Two of the most popular are crate training and outside training. We will explore both in depth so you can determine what will work best for you and your puppy.
Create Training
Experts suggest that you begin potty training your puppy between 12 and 16 weeks of age. At this age, he will have enough bladder control to begin a routine. When crate training, choose a crate that is large enough for your puppy to turn around, stand and lie down in. Note that a crate which is too large will allow the puppy to use the bathroom on one side, while still keeping his bedding area clean on the other side. This will hinder the training process and the association to go to the potty outside, not in the crate or your home. The crate should be a welcoming environment, padded with a blanket and maybe a toy or two. You want your puppy to enjoy his crate time. In the beginning, bring your puppy to his crated area during times of rest for short intervals, starting with about 15 minutes and increasing from there as he gets older. After the allotted time is up, take your puppy out of the crate and bring him outside to use the bathroom. The key is for him to realize that after crate time comes potty time. Once he does use the bathroom, heap on the praise and feel free to reward him with a treat. Repeat this routine consistently throughout the day. In the evenings, make sure to remove his water source about 2.5 hours before his bedtime. Take him out one last time before bed. Remember that you’ll have to take him out to use the bathroom again during the night if he wakes up. This is to ensure he doesn’t have an accident in the crate during those nighttime hours. After a few months, he should be able to have enough control of his bladder to make it through the night.
Outside Training
Just like crate training, establishing a routine is essential for potty training your puppy outside. In the early stages of training, it’s best to take your puppy outdoors frequently. At least once an hour will ensure you are setting your puppy up for success. Don’t forget to take your puppy outside when he wakes up from sleeping and after playing, eating, and drinking.
Set up an eating schedule for your puppy and pay attention to any signs he needs to go after he is done. Regardless, he should be taken out immediately after his meal even if he doesn’t show any obvious signs of having to go. Every dog is different, so it may take multiple trips outside before you can figure out how to house train a puppy. You will need to be vigilant to determine how soon he needs to use the bathroom after eating. Again, remove his water source 2.5 hours before bedtime and pay attention if he wakes up during the night, taking him out right away if he does.
When taking your puppy outside, pick a location for him to use as his potty and stick with that same area every time. Once he goes, praise and reward him for his efforts immediately after he is done so he can associate what he has done with the positive attention you’re giving him.
With both crate training and outside training, don’t expect your puppy to be perfect after the first day, week or even month. Expect mistakes and when they do happen, clean up the mess without complaint. If you catch your puppy starting to go, pick him up quickly and take him outside. Punishing a dog after the fact is useless and will only result in a confused look as they can’t connect the fact they’re being disciplined with their natural need to potty.
With some patience, consistency and lots of love and praise, you can be sure you’ll be well on your way to house training your puppy fast. Keeping in mind that building a trusting relationship will also enable you to quickly master how to successfully potty train your puppy. Stick with it, have patience and all your efforts will quickly be rewarded.