How do I toilet train my puppy?

Toilet training can feel daunting, especially in the early days when accidents seem constant and it feels like you’re cleaning more than sleeping.

Toilet training isn’t about perfection, it’s about consistency, patience, and learning your puppy’s signals over time.

Some puppies take to toilet training straight away, whilst others take much longer. If your pup is on the longer side, don’t worry – this is completely normal. Just ensure you remain consistent with your approach, you will get there eventually!

Below are a few tips to help with toilet training. Remember, consistency is key.

1. Take your puppy outside regularly
Take your puppy to the same outdoor toilet spot frequently throughout the day, especially after key moments such as eating, drinking, playing and sleeping. You may need to set alarms during the night, especially in the early weeks.

Tips:

• Use a vocal command such as ‘Wee wee’ and then treat your puppy once they have toileted

• Take them to the spot at least every hour

• Use the same spot each time to avoid confusion of where to go

• Look for signs they may need to go, such as sniffing or circling. If you see this, take them straight outside.

2. Use puppy pads

Puppy pads can be a helpful aid when learning to toilet train, although this can be a debated topic and some owners believe taking them outside consistently from day one is a preferable option. If you decide to use puppy pads that is completely fine, this option may work really well for you, especially if you live in a colder climate!

If you choose to use puppy pads, start by taking the puppy to the pad regularly throughout the day, especially after eating, drinking, playing and sleeping. Over time, move the pad closer to the doorway and then eventually outside. It’s important to still set a toileting command with this method to avoid confusion. This helps your puppy understand what’s expected wherever they go.

Tips:

• Start by placing pads in a consistent location

• Gradually move pads closer to the door

• It’s worth noting that some puppies can find transitioning outside confusing and this can subsequently encourage toileting indoors longer than intended.

3: When your puppy has an accident, clean the area thoroughly

When a puppy toilets indoors, how the area is cleaned can affect whether they return to the same spot again. Puppies rely heavily on scent and lingering smells, often these can’t be detected by humans. These smells may signal to your puppy that they are allowed to go inside.

Tips:

• Use an enzyme based cleaner designed for pet accidents

• Avoid ammonia based products, which can smell similar to urine

• Clean beyond the visible area to remove lingering scents

• If your puppy repeatedly goes back to certain spots review how you have been cleaning the area, could there have been a secret accident at some point?

• Blot accidents rather than rubbing to avoid spreading the scent

Remember

Accidents are a normal part of toilet training, it doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. If you see your puppy start to toilet indoors, interrupt them and take them to the correct spot. Even though it is frustrating, try to take a deep breath and avoid telling them off and this tends to lead to confusion rather than learning.

Progress often comes in small steps, and setbacks are very common, especially during growth spurts, routine changes or fear periods.

Sources:
• RSPCA – Toilet training your dog
• Blue cross – Toilet training a puppy
• American Kennel Club – The Ins and Outs of Potty Pad Training