We LOOOOOOVE Puppies!
But normally we don't start potty training until puppies are at least 4 months old. so, this page is to provide you tips on how to potty train in the meantime!
Potty Training THAT WORKS!
If you need a more in-depth deep dive on potty training, check out Ryan Wimpey’s book, “potty training that works,” on amazon and audible.
5 Potty Training Myths DEBUNKED!
Myth #1
Spanking my dog if I catch him will teach him not to potty on the carpet.
Fact: Spanking your dog will not teach them where to potty. Instead, it teaches them to fear you and causes them to avoid pottying in front of you, often leading to them finding hidden spots to relieve themselves. If you catch your dog in the act, make a high-pitched noise or clap your hands to startle them, then immediately take them outside to the designated potty spot. Praise them once they go potty outside, and avoid punishment.
Myth #2
My dog should be potty trained by 4 months old.
Fact: Potty training is a gradual process, and there’s no set age when a dog should be fully potty trained. Some dogs can hold their bladder at an early age, while others need more time. Puppies, especially, may need frequent potty breaks and may not develop full bladder control until 6-8 months old. Be patient and maintain a consistent routine to set your dog up for success.
Myth #3
Bells by the door will help train the dog faster.
Fact: While bells can be a useful tool once your dog has learned the routine, they will not speed up the potty training process. Your dog must first understand the appropriate potty behavior before they can use the bells to signal when they need to go outside. Bells are a great communication tool but not a substitute for the potty training process itself.
Myth #4
Crates are cruel and unnecessary.
Fact: Crates, when used properly, provide a safe space for your dog and are a valuable tool in potty training. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so a crate can help them learn to hold it until they are let outside. Crates are not for punishment; they are a way to create structure and prevent accidents when you’re not able to supervise your dog directly.
Myth #5
Potty Pads will help my dog learn not to potty on the carpet
Fact: Potty pads can actually reinforce the habit of peeing inside, making it harder to teach your dog that they should only go potty outside. While they may seem convenient, potty pads encourage dogs to potty on absorbent surfaces inside the house. It’s best to focus on teaching your dog that outside is the only acceptable place to relieve themselves.
Recommended for puppies at least 4 months old.
Proven Methods and Experienced Trainers
POTTY TRAINING 101: A proven Method For Success
At Tip Top K9, we believe potty training isn’t about teaching your dog where not to potty, but rather where they should potty.
Our approach focuses on using consistent routines and obedience training to help your dog understand the right place and time to relieve themselves. Through clear patterns and repetition, we guide your dog to learn appropriate potty behavior.
Obedience
Our potty training method combines obedience commands and structured routines to give your dog the tools they need to succeed. We use commands like “come” and “place & stay” to control your dog’s behavior and prevent them from sneaking away to potty in unwanted areas. For example, if we notice a dog beginning to sniff around, we can call them to us and lead them to the designated potty area quickly.
Crate Training
If the dog still doesn’t potty after being outside for a few minutes, they are placed in the crate for a short period (10-15 minutes), and then taken outside again to try once more. This process is repeated until the dog successfully goes potty outside. The key to success is establishing a consistent routine and limiting opportunities for accidents inside.
While we prefer to avoid relying on crates for potty training, they are a useful tool if your dog hasn’t yet mastered the “place” command or if you need to step out. A crate can prevent accidents when you’re away or during overnight training. When used properly, crates become a safe and comfortable space for your dog, helping them to hold their bladder until it is time to go outside.
Routines
If a dog doesn’t go potty during the first 5 minutes outside, we use the “place” command to put them in a designated timeout spot (like a box or dog bed) for 10-15 minutes. This allows them to calm down and refocus without the temptation of going potty inside. This method avoids constant crate use, and allows the dog to stay out with the family while still being contained until it’s time for the next potty break.
Find a Trainer Near You
Potty training can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and a little patience, it’s completely achievable. For expert guidance and personalized training, call us at 833-484-7867 today! Let our professional trainers help you create a successful potty training plan for your dog.