Mention the words potty training and most dog owners will shudder with the thought of it. However, understanding how to potty train a puppy takes both energy and patience and requires a lot of time and countless walks. There is also the diligent clean up of accidents to contend with. Timing is the key and should begin immediately upon bringing your puppy home. Before beginning to potty train a puppy, let’s take a look at a few tips on the process. It is the first stage of a bonding process that will result in a happy and healthy relationship.

There are many potty training tips, but to begin with, feed your pet at the same time every day. Remember to remove food within four hours of bedtime and withdraw the water dish two hours before bedtime. It is recommended that you feed your puppy a dry food so that his stools will be more solid. A routine is the key to success. That also means you too have to stick to a routine by going to bed and getting up at the same time every day.

Toilet training for puppies involves taking your pup outside first thing in the morning. Put him on a leash and guide him to the place that you want him to use. Repeat this activity around 10 to 15 minutes after every meal or drink and right before bedtime. If, after 10 minutes, there is no potty action, then take the puppy back to its crate. Wait another 10 to 15 minutes then take him out again. Do not engage in play until the business at hand is complete. Sometimes puppies don’t finish on the first try, so give him time to be sure he won’t have to go again in a few minutes.

As you endeavor to potty train a puppy, remember that there will be accidents. It’s very important to remove all traces of odor from any place your puppy has had an accident. Regular cleaners won’t remove the odors. Although you may not smell urine or feces after washing the area, your puppy has a much more sensitive nose than you have. If he smells urine or feces in a certain spot, then he’ll think he’s found the toilet. A good cleaner for urine is a half and half mixture of white vinegar and water.

While you potty train a puppy, keep in mind that his access to furniture and carpeting should be limited to avoid damage. Be patient and you will be rewarded. Young puppies don’t have total control of their bowels or bladders, so they may realize they need to go when it’s too late to get outside in time. Just remember to be as patient as possible while you potty train your dog and teach him where he needs to go. Your tenacity will pay off.

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