Pick the same patch of grass
Dogs learn by scent. One quiet outdoor spot, used every time, becomes the bathroom in their mind. Carry them or walk them there on a leash so they cannot wander and play instead.
Day 1
Establish the routine
Set the outdoor spot, the cue word, and a clockwork schedule. Today is about showing your puppy where success happens.
Timed trips: Every 30–45 minutes
Today’s goals
- Choose one outdoor potty spot and one door
- Teach the cue “go potty”
- Reward the instant they finish outside
- Crate or supervise whenever you cannot watch
Schedule
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| Wake-up | Leash on, straight to the potty spot. Cue, wait, reward. |
| Every 30–45 min | Short outdoor trip even if they just went. |
| After meals | Wait 10–15 minutes, then go out. |
| After play or naps | Potty first, then more freedom. |
| Bedtime | Last trip, then crate beside your bed. |
Use a short cue, then wait
Say “go potty” once in a calm voice. Stay still for up to two minutes. If they go, mark it with “yes” and a treat on the grass. If they do not, return inside and try again in 15 minutes.
Keep indoor time boring and watched
A wandering puppy will pee. Tether them to you with a leash, use a playpen, or crate them. Freedom is earned after outdoor success.
Tips
- High-value treats beat kibble for this job.
- Clean indoor accidents with an enzyme cleaner so the scent does not invite a repeat.
- Never scold. Late punishment only teaches your puppy to hide from you.
Night
Last trip right before lights out. Crate near the bed. If they wake and whine, leash to the same outdoor spot — no play, no snacks except the potty reward — then back to bed.
