How to Potty Train Small Dogs

Potty training small dogs requires patience and consistency.  If you have never had a dog, potty training your puppy can be very frustrating and stressful.  Learn the basic training techniques and tips you need to know to potty train your puppy as quickly as possible.

1. Choose between using puppy training pads and taking your dog outside.  If you are not home to take your puppy outside throughout the day, you might want to use a puppy training pad.  If you are home during the day or have a family member who can train your puppy when you are absent, you can train your dog to go to the bathroom outdoors without the use of puppy training pads.


2. Pick a spot where you want your puppy to go to the bathroom.  If using puppy training pads, place each new pad in the same spot.  If you are potty training your puppy outdoors, take it to the same spot every day.  Your puppy will eventually associate the chosen spot with going to the bathroom.


3. Let your puppy know when it does something right or wrong.  When your dog goes to the bathroom in the right spot, reward it with treats and praise.  If it has an accident, gently reprimand it without raising your voice.  Yelling scares puppies and encourages them to hide their mistakes instead of learning from them.


4. Pay attention to your dog’s actions at all times.  The key to successful potty training is consistency.  Try to be around your puppy every time it goes to the bathroom, so you can reward or reprimand it.  Teach other people in your household how to potty train your dog, so they know what to do when you are not home.