The Best & Easiest Way to Potty Train My Puppy

Crate training is widely regarded as a quick and easy method of potty training puppies. Recommended by the Humane Society of the United States, among many others, crate training uses a dog's instincts against soiling his "den" to help him learn. A crate will also keep both your puppy and your home safe when you aren't there or can't supervise her closely. It may take several weeks for your puppy to become potty trained, but by being consistent you can minimize or avoid accidents.

Things You'll Need

  • Crate
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Instructions

    • 1
      A crate that is too big will hinder potty training.

      Buy a crate for your puppy. It should be big enough for your puppy to stand up and turn around, but not big enough for him to soil in one spot and lie down in another. You may need to start off with a small crate and increase the size as your puppy grows.

    • 2

      Place the crate where your puppy won't feel isolated and can see you often. The family room usually works well.

    • 3

      Place a blanket, towel or pet bed in the crate. It's also a good idea to give the dog a toy or two to keep him occupied while you are away.

    • 4

      Acquaint the puppy with the crate while you are home. Give her a small treat and place her in the kennel for a couple of minutes. Gradually increase the amount of time she spends in the crate. Doing this will help prevent separation anxiety when you leave home.

    • 5

      Put your puppy in the crate whenever you are away or aren't watching her closely, as well as at bedtime. Every time you release her from the crate, take her directly outside to eliminate.

    • 6
      Use the same phrase consistently when you want your puppy to potty.

      Take the puppy out about 10 to 15 minutes after feeding. This isn't play time. Whether the dog is on a leash or in your yard, this is potty time. Reinforce potty time by consistently saying, "Go potty." As soon as he goes, praise him, using the same phrase every time (such as "Good potty!"). Stay out until he urinates and defecates, praising both.

    • 7

      Always watch your puppy when she's not in her crate. Puppies give signs, such as sniffing the floor and circling, when they need to go to the bathroom. Take her out immediately, again reinforcing and praising. If the puppy has an accident, it's an indication that you weren't watching close enough.

    • 8

      Be consistent when your puppy has an accident. If you catch him in the act, pick him up and take him outside. A stern "No" is all that's needed for punishment. When you take him out, again say, "Go potty" and praise him after he goes.