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House training your puppy: A basic guide

by Jonathan Maines 04/06/2025

House training a new puppy can seem like a daunting task for a new pet parent. Even for experienced dog owners, the process is never perfect. Luckily, with some careful planning and understanding, you can train your dog to do his business in the right way at the right time - every time.

How to potty-train a dog indoors & outdoors

The house training process is actually made up of multiple smaller lessons. These concepts all come together to ensure your pup knows when and where it’s allowed to go. Here are the basic things you’ll need to teach your puppy:

  1. The appropriate place to go.
  2. Where not to go.
  3. How to “hold it” if you’re not able to go immediately.
  4. How to communicate to you that they need to go.
  5. A special word or phrase as a bathroom cue.

Keys to success

One of the most important things to help your potty training schedule is to establish a regular feeding schedule. This will help you learn when your puppy’s usual “go time” is, not only helping you train but helping them learn to communicate. 

Patience and positivity are also paramount to successful potty training. It may take several tries for your dog to learn these new behaviors, so be ready for quick clean-ups. Never punish or exhibit anger towards your dog if they don’t make it, but always reinforce and praise a perfect potty trip with treats.

Supplies you’ll need to house train your dog

Here are the basic supplies essential to successful house training:

  • A crate or small exercise pen
  • Training pads
  • Treats for positive reinforcement
  • Carpet cleaner
  • High-quality puppy food

Litter box training for dogs: Does it work?

Some new pet parents wonder if you can litter box train a dog. The answer is no - not only will larger dogs struggle with going in a confined space, their instinct to dig will make an enormous mess of your home.

 

Most dogs aren’t fully potty-trained for months. Patience is crucial, but having the right supplies and strategies ready will help make the process as easy as possible.

About the Author
Author

Jonathan Maines

After graduating from the University of Wisconsin- Eau Claire, Jon moved to Naples, Florida in 1989 where he took a job with the Naples Police Department. In 1991 Jon married his wife Kathy, also from Wisconsin, and had two children. During the next 19 years Jon continued to work for the Naples Police Department ultimately becoming a Lieutenant. During this time he and Kathy also became successful real estate investors. In June 2010 Jon retired from the Naples Police Department to focus his energies into being a successful Real Estate Professional. Jon believes that his faith, honesty, integrity, knowledge and hard work have been the key principals to his success in the Real Estate Business. If you are looking for an agent you can count on and trust to give you an honest perspective when looking to buy or sell your home, Jon is here to serve you. Call today for a free market analysis!