Potty training your dog requires solid commitment, positive reinforcement, and patience. It will take time and might last even years, but the outcome benefit will be worth it. There is no defined duration on how long does it take to Potty train a dog since each puppy is unique.

Most puppies can be trained within four to six months while others may take up to three years. However, there is one guarantee. And that is the more consistent your training is, the faster your puppy will be able to pick up.

When do you start potty training a puppy?

Experts say that the best time to potty train your dog is when he reached four to six months because by this time his bladder muscles have developed and they have complete control when to void. You can try to little by little train your dog before this time such as by putting him in the area where you want him to pee, but do not expect that he will be fully potty trained yet.

If you will be able to follow the guidelines consistently, your puppy can be house trained when he reaches age four. Commit 20 minutes per day and follow a regular schedule, the most common ones are:

• When you wake up. Once you hear your alarm or your dog whimpering from his cage, get up and quickly take him to the same area of the house where you want him to potty or get his leash and go outside.
• After mealtime. Try giving their meal the exact time every day; this will help you observe how long it takes for your dog to potty. If he is still a puppy, expect that he will require more frequent trips outside. But if he is an older dog then he can hold it a while longer.
• After naps or playtime. Sometimes when puppies become overstimulated after playtime, they will have an urge to have a bladder break. That is why you can notice that some dogs start sniffing around after you have played with them.
• Before going to bed. Same as humans, dogs have to void too before they go to sleep or else they might disturb you in the middle of the night.

How to potty train a puppy

• Feed your puppy on a regular schedule. Do not let his dog food accessible all the time and take it away after every meal.
• Stick on the same potty spot. Your dog will remember the scent and will induce his need to relieve himself.
• Learn the signs that your puppy needs to go. Sniffing, going around in circles, whimpering, smelling his behind, and scratching at the door are all signs that you need to take your dog out immediately.
• Take him outside often. Vets recommend giving your dog more or less six bathroom visits every day.
• Reward them with treats. Every time your dog does a good job, always give him treats and verbal praises. Committing mistakes are part of the process and never punish your dog for these accidents.

Housetraining or potty training takes time and effort. Some dogs can be trained faster than others and that is completely normal so never compare your dogs for it will demotivate you. If you feel like you’re not making a progress, continue sticking on the course and do not give up.

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