GO FROM WHOOPS TO WOOFS WITH THESE EXPERT PUPPY POTTY TRAINING TIPS
Potty training a puppy can be messy, but with the right tools, it doesn’t have to be. Eco-friendly reusable potty pads, like those from Perth-based Potty Buddy, offer a sustainable and convenient solution for new pet owners. Experts recommend starting early, using reward-based training, and ensuring frequent potty breaks to set your puppy up for success. Here, Louise Newman, a professional dog trainer, shares her top toilet training tips.
1. Set Up a Designated Potty Area: Puppies learn faster when they know where to go. Choose a specific spot outdoors or indoors with a consistent surface like grass or a reusable potty pad.
For apartment or indoor setups, use a reusable potty pad that provides a durable, non-slip surface that puppies feel comfortable using.
Reusable potty pads are also a practical option for crates or playpens when puppies need confinement but still need a designated area for toileting, especially during more extended stays.
“Use a timer or schedule to remind yourself to take your puppy out regularly,” says Louise.
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2. Reduce Space for Early Success: Giving puppies too much freedom too soon can lead to accidents. “Start with a confined area—just a few meters where they can play, rest and potty safely,” Louise says.
Create a setup where the potty area is close to their bedding but still distinct, encouraging puppies to move to the designated spot when nature calls.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement: Timing is everything! Reward your puppy with a small treat or enthusiastic praise when they take that first step away from their pee or poop and have toileted on the right surface.
“High-value treats reserved specifically for potty training can help reinforce good habits,” says Louise.
4. Keep a Consistent Schedule: Puppies thrive on routine. Louise recommends taking them to their potty area at key times, such as after waking up, after meals or water, at the end of playtime and every hour for younger puppies.
“Every puppy is unique,” she says.. “Track their patterns to fine-tune your schedule and prevent accidents. If you work full-time, it’s a good idea to take time off if you can or consider organising visits from a dog walker/sitter/trainer.”
5. Be Calm and Patient: Accidents happen, but how you handle them matters. Newman advises against punishment, which can frighten your puppy and slow training. Instead, without saying anything, calmly remove your pup and then clean the area with a bio-based cleaner to remove odours.
If they don’t go potty, don’t hurry them as you will distract them. Keep them on a lead while they continue sniffing. “When they pee and poo in a designated space, be enthusiastic!” says Louise. “A genuine, cheerful reaction shows them they’ve done something great!”
6. Transition Gradually: Reusable pads can act as a transitional surface, helping your puppy move from indoors to outdoor toileting. A thick, absorbent design (like in Potty Buddy) ensures comfort and reduces mess, while their versatility means they can also double as crate liners, bedding or car seat protectors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
“As a professional dog trainer, I often see owners giving puppies full access to the house too soon, which can make it harder for them to understand where to go,” says Louise. “It’s also important to avoid using harsh tones or scolding after accidents. Your frustration comes from unrealistic expectations and poor monitoring from us humans.
“Make sure you thoroughly clean up any messes to prevent lingering scents. And remember, if your puppy is in the middle of going, it’s best to leave them be. Picking them up at that point will only create more mess, disrupt the process and confuse them. This can even lead to them avoiding toileting near you in the future.”
