Housebreaking: Key Tips for Success
Housebreaking your new dog is all about preventing accidents and rewarding success. Adult dogs generally have better bladder control than puppies, but it’s important to understand your dog’s limits. A good rule for puppies is to take their age in months, add one, and that’s the number of hours they can “hold it” during the day. For example, a 4-month-old puppy can usually hold it for up to 5 hours. Puppies will have to potty after sleeping, eating, and playing.
Establish a Routine
Feed your dog on a consistent schedule—as a result, they’ll eliminate on a schedule, too. Keep their diet simple and high-quality, with minimal treats, which helps build consistent success. Avoid feeding people food to reduce begging.
Choose a Potty Area
Pick an outdoor spot about ten square feet where you want your dog to go potty.
Take your dog on a leash to that spot.
Encourage them to pace back and forth—movement helps stimulate elimination.
Use encouraging phrases like “do your business” or “go potty” for up to 3 minutes.
If your dog eliminates, respond with enthusiastic praise, treats, and playtime.
Handling Missed Opportunities
If your dog doesn’t eliminate, keep them on leash and return indoors. Either stay with the dog on leash or confine them in a crate. Try taking them out again in an hour.
Gradually Increase Freedom
After each successful potty trip, allow your dog 15 minutes of freedom in the house before restricting them again with leash or crate. After three days of success, increase freedom by 15-minute increments. If an accident occurs, reduce freedom by 15 minutes for three days.
Cleaning Up and Positive Reinforcement
Use an enzymatic cleaner to fully remove odors from any accidents—this discourages repeat accidents in the same spot. Always avoid punishment for accidents. Instead, focus on rewarding proper elimination.
This method, grounded in patience and consistency, helps your dog learn the right behaviors and builds a trusting, happy relationship from the start.
