Things You'll Need
- Newspapers
- Dog crate
- Leash
- Dog treats (small, bite-size food treats for rewards)
Instructions
Create a separate potty area for your puppy inside his crate. If you are not using a crate, designate an area in your home where the puppy can use for relieving himself.
Cover the potty area completely in several layers of newspaper. Ensure the newspaper layer is thick enough to absorb big messes.
Watch your puppy to anticipate when he may need to eliminate. Puppies tend to look agitated and may even whimper when they need to go. Learn your dog's signals so you can move him quickly to his potty area.
Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after meals. This will teach your dog to associate going potty with the outdoors. Be sure to praise him with enthusiasm, warm words and treats when he goes outside.
Decrease the amount of papers in your dog's potty area so that he has less space to go on. Gradually make the area smaller and smaller.
Gradually move the newspapers about a foot at a time to their final destination. If the area is outside, move the papers closer and closer to the door. Then move the papers outside.
Reward your puppy with treats and encouragement when he goes in the preferred location. If your puppy makes a mess, go back a few steps to allow him to adjust to the change.
Be consistent and patient with your puppy. Give him time to learn your expectations and to physically and mentally adapt to potty training.