Did you know that 70% of U.S. households own a pet as of 2022?
Pets are becoming increasingly popular in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. People love having animals around because they provide endless companionship and unconditional love.
However, potty training puppies is not always a fun process. While some puppies can learn quickly and make it easy for you, others can be stubborn and difficult.
If you are wondering how to potty train puppies, this short and simple guide is for you.
Prepare Your Puppy
Puppy potty training starts with a little preparation. Make sure you have everything you need before beginning.
You’ll want a small litter box, puppy pads, or newspapers for accidents. You’ll also need a leash in case your puppy needs to go out quickly.
Finally, you’ll want some treats to reward good behavior.
Choose an Area
Choose a potty area where your puppy will have plenty of space to roam around and go potty.
Be sure this area is away from hazards. This includes stairs, busy streets, and other animals that might disturb or frighten your puppy.
Start with a small area at first and gradually increase the size. If possible, choose an area with grass so your puppy will have somewhere soft to go potty.
Put Your Puppy on a Regular Feeding Schedule
If you bring your puppy home from the breeder or shelter, she may already be on a feeding schedule. If not, start one as soon as possible.
Feeding your puppy at the same time every day will help her body stay on track with its internal clock. It will make it easier for her to adapt to her new environment.
Identify Your Puppy’s Elimination Cues
When training small dogs, it’s important to recognize your puppy’s elimination cues. A good time to train is right after meals and right before bedtime.
You’ll be able to tell when your puppy needs to go outside. He’ll walk around in circles, sniffing the ground or shaking his rear end.
Give Lots of Praise and Treats
Train your puppy to associate her peeing or pooping with praise and treats.
When she pees or poops in an appropriate place, give her lots of praise along with a treat or two right afterward. Try using words like “good girl” or “yes” as she finishes up.
This will help her learn what behavior gets rewarded by you.
You can also try saying no when she goes outside in an inappropriate place. This is so she’ll learn what behavior doesn’t get rewarded by you.
Make Potty Training Puppies Easy
Potty training puppies can be a daunting task. However, it can also be very easy if you have patience and dedication.
It’s important to remember that puppies are still learning how to behave properly in your home. They will require lots of supervision and correction when they’re first starting.
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