How Do I Potty Train a Puppy at 8 Weeks?

Once you have chosen the perfect canine companion to bring home to your family, the reality can set in quickly. New puppies have to be trained to fit into your family dynamics. One of the first trainings you will begin working on is potty training. Although it can be intimidating, you can train your 8-week-old puppy to potty outside with a little effort.

Things You'll Need

  • Crate
  • Crate dividers
  • Blanket
  • Toys
  • Treats
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Confine your puppy. One method is to use a dog crate. Choose a crate that is large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around and lay down in. If you do not have room for a crate in your home, you can use baby gates to section off a part of a room to put your puppy in.

    • 2

      Make your puppy's space comfortable. Line the area with a blanket or an old towel. Toys are acceptable as well.

    • 3

      Encourage your puppy to enter the crate on its own. Use treats or toys to tempt it into the cage.

    • 4

      Place your puppy into the crate every time you leave the house or cannot provide 100 percent attention.

    • 5

      Take your puppy out to potty. Take your puppy to the same place every time. This consistency will help your puppy learn what is expected of it. Ideal times to take your dog outside include as soon as you get home from being gone for any period of time, 15 to 20 minutes after your puppy eats or drinks, immediately after playtime or waking from a nap, as well as right before bed or before you leave the house. If you notice your puppy showing signs of needing to potty, take it out then, too. Signs including floor sniffing, circling or squatting.

    • 6

      Tell your puppy what is expected once you reach your designated potty spot. Use a trigger word every time, such as "empty" or "do your job." Keep your puppy focused on the job at hand by not allowing it to play. Do not talk to it during potty time other than to use your trigger word.

    • 7

      Praise your puppy after your puppy has successfully gone potty outside. Use positive words, pats and treats to let it know it did what you what you wanted.