How to Start Potty Training Your Puppy: Early Stage Tips Every Owner Needs

Bringing a new puppy home is one of life’s greatest joys, but along with the cuddles and playtime comes one of the very first training challenges: toilet training. The good news? With the right approach, you can set your puppy up for success from day one.

Here’s how to start potty training and what to focus on in the early stages.

1. Timing is Everything

Puppies have tiny bladders and limited control, so frequent trips outside are key. A good starting point:

• Every 1–2 hours during the day

• Immediately after waking up

• Right after meals or water

• After play sessions

Consistency helps your puppy learn that outside is the right place to go.

2. Choose a Toileting Spot

Pick one outdoor area for bathroom breaks. The scent left behind helps remind your puppy that this is the right spot. Take them there on leash, even if it’s in your backyard. This helps create a routine and prevents confusion.

3. Reward Immediately

Praise and reward your puppy the moment they finish. A small treat, with the word, “yes!”, reinforces the idea that going toilet outside is the best choice.

4. Supervision Inside the Home

Most accidents happen because a puppy isn’t being watched. Keep your puppy in the same room as you or use baby gates to limit access. If you can’t supervise, a crate is a helpful tool (dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area).

5. Learn the Signs

Every puppy has “tells” when they need to go. Watch for sniffing, circling, whining, or suddenly wandering off. The faster you respond, the fewer accidents you’ll need to clean up.

6. Stay Calm About Accidents

Accidents are part of the process. Clean them up thoroughly to remove odours, but don’t punish your puppy. Yelling or scolding only confuses them and can slow down progress.

7. Be Patient

Toilet training isn’t instant, it’s a process. With consistency and positivity, most puppies get the hang of it within a few weeks, though full reliability may take several months.

Next Step for You: This is just the beginning! Toilet training has different stages, from early basics to handling night time training, regression, and transitioning to full independence.

I’ve created a comprehensive e-book on Toilet Training that covers every stage, troubleshooting tips, and step-by-step guides to make the process as smooth as possible.

👉 Get Your Copy