Lengthen only after success
If accidents returned, drop back to 45 minutes. Stretching too soon undoes the map you just built.
Day 4
Stretch the clock
If Days 1–3 were mostly accident-free, widen the gap between timed trips. Still rush out on every signal.
Timed trips: Every 60–90 minutes
Today’s goals
- Move timed trips to 60–90 minutes
- Keep meal times fixed
- Practice waiting calmly in the crate
- Reward outdoor success every single time
Schedule
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| Wake-up | Immediate outdoor trip. |
| Meals | Same hours each day, potty 10–15 minutes later. |
| Daytime | 60–90 minute gaps, plus every signal and nap. |
| Bedtime | Water up earlier; last trip, then crate. |
Predictable meals, predictable poops
Two or three meals at set times make bowel movements easier to forecast. Avoid free-feeding during this week.
Quiet indoor jobs
Chews, snuffle mats, and short training games tire the brain without filling the bladder as fast as zoomies do.
Tips
- Pick up the water bowl two hours before bed unless your vet says otherwise.
- A wet crate bed means the crate is too large or the last trip was too early.
- Celebrate boring success. Calm praise is still a reward.
Night
Many puppies now sleep a longer first stretch. Still take them out if they fuss after sleeping a few hours.