What to Do With a Puppy Who Won't Be Potty Trained?

Animal shelters are full of former pets that did not perform exactly as the owner assumed they would. Most puppies will not walk into their home potty trained and perfectly obedient. The most important thing you can do for your new puppy is to keep trying. Do not give up on puppies that take a bit longer to train. This same puppy may one day be the best dog you have ever owned.

  1. Schedules

    • Create a schedule for the puppy and stick to it. Feed the puppy at the same times every day and take the puppy outside at the same times each day. A feeding and potty schedule will be beneficial in a number of ways. A schedule may better regulate the puppy's digestive system making him experience the urge to urinate and defecate at the same time each day. Schedules may make it easier for a puppy to refrain from eliminating in the house. If the puppy realizes he will soon be outside he may be more likely to wait until he is outside to eliminate. Schedules are also good for discipline and stability.

    Crates

    • Purchase a dog crate for the new puppy and use it at bedtime and when you must leave the house. Most dogs will instinctively try to avoid eliminating where they sleep. Place the puppy in the crate for no more than a few hours at a time (puppies cannot control their bladders as long as a full-grown dog can). When it is time to retrieve the dog from the crate, take him outside immediately before he has a chance to relieve himself indoors.

    Accidents

    • Learn to read your puppy's signals. A dog will continually sniff the ground and walk in circles signaling a need to eliminate. Stay close and take the dog outside as soon as he signals the need. Dogs often need to urinate after naps, feedings, and rigorous play.

      Accidents will happen. This does not mean that all is lost. Clean the mess thoroughly. If a dog smells urine or feces in an area he will be encouraged to continue to eliminate in that area. Use this behavior to your advantage. The Humane Society suggests taking the rags used to clean up accidents and placing them outside in the area the dog should eliminate in.