Common Puppy Potty Training Mistakes You Must Avoid
When it comes to puppy potty training, even if you try to do everything right, slip-ups may happen. It could be because of miscommunication, following outdated advice, or more. This is why we have put together a list of mistakes that owners typically make when crate training a puppy , so you know what to avoid and can help your pup adjust to their new environment.
10 Puppy Potty Training Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Crate Training
According to our puppy training services team, crate training is essential because it helps to keep your pup safe and speeds up the process of potty training. Be sure to get an appropriately sized crate for your pup. - Not Supervising
If you are a new dog owner, be sure to keep an eye on your puppy because it takes only a few seconds for them to use the washroom inside. Also, supervising them helps you understand their behaviour. If you are unable to focus on them continuously, using a crate can help. - Not Paying Attention to the Cues
Puppies tend to behave differently when they need to go out for a potty break. It could be things like sniffing around, acting distracted, trying to leave the room, squatting, and more. Learning to recognize the signs can help with your puppy potty training process. - Not Praising Them
In addition to praising your pup verbally, be sure to give them a treat after they do their business in the right spot. This will help them learn that pottying inside the house is not good behaviour. - Having Unrealistic Expectations
When crate training your puppy, having a few clean days does not necessarily mean that they have it all figured out. It may take months or even more for them to learn everything. It helps to be patient, and do not slack off on the potty training basics. - Not Understanding Hold Times
When potty training your puppy, it helps to remember that it takes them time to develop bladder control. You can determine your pup’s hold time by converting their age in months into hours. A two-month-old puppy is probably able to hold their bladder for two hours, but this changes when they are active and playing. Depending on their age, an active puppy may have to go out every 20 minutes. - Not Cleaning Stains Properly
When an accident occurs, be sure to treat the odour in addition to getting rid of the visible stains. This can help prevent accidents in the same spot in the future. Be sure to use an enzyme-based safe cleaner. - Not Using a Potty Phrase
When potty training your puppy, using expressions such as ‘hurry up’ or ‘go potty’ can encourage them. You can teach them a word and use it as a cue for them to get on with their business. - Using Potty Pads
Although potty pads are excellent training aids when it comes to crate training a puppy, they can prolong the process of potty training. Instead, you can have a specific spot where they can do their business. - Punishing Your Pup for Accidents
Blaming your puppy for accidents will not help with the potty training process. Doing so can physically intimidate and confuse them and might make them scared to go with you nearby. You should instead use positive techniques to help them learn the basics.
Hire Our Puppy Training Services to Help Teach Your Dog
Alpha Paws is a well-known puppy training preschool specializing in basic obedience, off-leash training, and more. We will help you establish the foundation for your pup’s future behaviour and ensure you have a happy, healthy relationship with them.
If you’d like to get our assistance for puppy potty training or crate training your pup, give us a call at 905-830-9500 or toll-free at 1-877-868-7297. We’ll be happy to help you!
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