If you’ve just brought home a new dog, congratulations! Potty training is an important part of bringing your pup into your family, and it’s not as difficult as it may seem. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the basics of potty training and give you some tips to get started. Puppies are typically ready to start learning at around 12 weeks old, but every dog is different so be sure to pay attention to your furry friend’s cues. Keep reading for more information on how to get your new dog used to going outside!

The Basics

There are a few basics that you’ll need to know before getting started with potty training your new dog. The first is that puppies typically have to go to the bathroom after eating, drinking, or playing. So once you’ve determined that it’s time for your pup to go outside, take them to their designated spot and wait until they do their business. Reward them with a treat and lots of praise once they finish up! If your puppy has an accident in the house, don’t scold them – simply clean it up and continue on as usual. Consistency is key when potty training your dog, so be sure to stick to a routine and remain patient throughout the process.

Be Consistent

One of the most important aspects of potty training is being consistent. Dogs are creatures of habit, so if you’re constantly changing the rules, they’ll only become more confused. Stick to a routine and take your dog out at the same times each day – this will help them learn when they’re supposed to go outside.

Be Patient

As with any new endeavor, patience is key when potty training your dog. Some puppies may take longer than others to get the hang of things, so be prepared for a few bumps in the road. If you’re having trouble getting your pup to go outside, try taking them for a walk or playing with them in their designated potty area. Be sure to praise them when they do the right thing and continue reinforcing good behavior. With a little bit of patience and consistency, you’ll have your new dog potty trained in no time!

Reward Good Behavior

One of the best ways to encourage your pup to keep going outside is to reward them when they do their business. Give them a treat or some extra attention and praise – this will help them learn that going outside is a good thing!

Have Realistic Expectations

It’s important to remember that every dog is different, so don’t expect your pup to be fully trained overnight. Potty training takes time, patience, and consistency – but with a little bit of effort, you’ll be successful!

Take Them Out Frequently

One of the best ways to get your new dog used to going outside is to take them out as frequently as possible. Puppies usually have to go after eating, drinking, or playing, so try taking them out every time one of these things happens. This will help them learn where they’re supposed to go and make the potty training process a little bit easier.

Go to a Designated Spot

It’s also important to take your dog to the same spot each time they go outside. This will help them learn that this is their designated potty area and make it more likely that they’ll do their business there.

Go Outside with Your Dog

Another way to help your new dog get used to going outside is to go outside with them. This will help them feel more comfortable in their designated potty area and make it more likely that they’ll actually use it. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with your new pup and gives you the opportunity to praise them when they go potty outside to help reinforce that behavior.

Consider Using a Crate

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t seem to get your pup to go outside, consider using a crate. Crates can help train dogs not to soil their living space, and many puppies eventually take themselves outside to do their business once they’re trained.  Be sure to only use the crate for short periods of time and never as a form of punishment – crates should be seen as a positive thing, not a negative one.

Sign up for Local Training Classes

Puppy Kindergarten and other training classes hosted by Berkshire Dogs Unleashed are a great way to help train your dog in socialization and obedience.  Not only will your pup learn how to behave properly in a variety of situations, but you’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and get advice from professional dog trainers. This can be an invaluable resource when it comes to potty training your new furry friend.

Final Thoughts

Potty training your new dog can seem like a daunting task, but with these tips, you’ll be successful in no time. While it’s important to be consistent when potty training your dog, don’t get discouraged if it takes a little longer than expected. Every dog is different, so some may take longer to learn than others. Be patient and stick to a routine, and you’ll eventually get there! 

If you ever need any help or advice – we’re always happy to help. Thanks for reading and good luck with your new furry friend!