If you’ve just brought home a new puppy, house training is one of the biggest tasks on your mind. The big question is, how long does it take to house train a puppy? The answer can vary, but you’ll likely get it done faster than expected with patience and the right approach.
What Is House Training?
House training also called potty training, teaches your puppy where it’s okay to relieve itself. Whether you’re training them to go outside or use puppy pads indoors, the goal is to establish a habit so your puppy knows when and where it’s time to go.
How Long Does It Usually Take?
House training takes 4 to 6 months on average, but this can differ based on your puppy’s age, breed, and personality. Some puppies might catch on quickly, while others may need more time to understand the routine. Don’t worry—every dog is different!
What Influences How Fast Your Puppy Learns?
There are a few factors that will determine how long it takes to house train your puppy:
- Age: Older puppies may pick up house training faster than young ones.
- Breed: Certain breeds are known to learn more quickly, while others might take a little longer.
- Routine: Sticking to a regular schedule will help your puppy learn faster.
- Your Attitude: Puppies are susceptible to your emotions. Stay positive, and be patient.
- Personality: Every puppy has its unique temperament. Some are eager to please, and some might be more stubborn.
The Role of Age in House Training
Age matters when it comes to house training. Puppies younger than 12 weeks old may not have complete bladder control yet. They’re still learning how to hold it. By 16 weeks, most puppies start to gain better control and can go longer without relieving themselves.
Creating a Potty Training Routine
Routines are essential when it comes to house training. Your puppy will do better if they know when and where to go. Here’s a simple schedule to follow:
table here
Why a Routine Helps
Puppies thrive when they know what to expect. A set schedule gives them structure, reducing the chances of accidents inside the house. Over time, they’ll naturally follow this routine.
Rewards for Good Behavior
Positive reinforcement is your best tool when it comes to house training. When your puppy successfully enters the right spot, show them they’ve done something good! Give them a treat, offer lots of praise, and use a happy tone of voice. This makes them associate going outside with positive experiences.
Avoiding Punishment
You must never punish your puppy for accidents. Puppies don’t know any better, and scolding them may confuse or scare them. Instead, just clean up the mess and move forward. Staying calm will help them learn faster.
Using Crate Training for Potty Success
Many dog owners find crate training to be helpful in-house training. Puppies instinctively avoid going to the bathroom where they sleep, so a crate can encourage them to hold their bladder. Make sure the crate is just the right size—big enough for your puppy to turn around but not so big that they have room to relieve themselves in a corner.
Watch for Signs That Your Puppy Needs to Go
Pay attention to your puppy’s behavior. Here are some common signs that they might need to go outside:
- Sniffing: If your puppy is sniffing around the floor, they might be looking for a place to go.
- Circling: Puppies often circle when they’re about to go.
- Whining or barking: They might be trying to tell you something!
- Heading toward the door: If they start pacing near it, it’s probably time for a bathroom break.
Preventing Accidents Inside
The best way to prevent accidents is to watch your puppy closely and act quickly when you notice any signs. If your puppy shows any of the above behaviors, take it outside immediately.
How Long Can Puppies Hold It?
Puppies have small bladders, which means they need to relieve themselves often. A general rule of thumb is that puppies can hold their bladder for about 1 hour per month of age. So, if your puppy is 3 months old, they can have it for about 3 hours before they need to go.
Daytime vs. Nighttime Bladder Control
At night, puppies can hold their bladder a little longer because they sleep. But don’t forget to take them out first thing in the morning!
Common Challenges in House Training
Even with the best routine, things might go differently. Don’t worry—setbacks are part of the process. Here’s how to handle some common challenges:
Regression
Sometimes, puppies seem to take a step back in their house training. This is normal and can happen due to changes in routine, stress, or excitement. If it happens, return to basics—stick to the schedule and use rewards for good behavior.
Excitement Peeing
Some puppies pee when they’re excited or nervous. They usually outgrow this behavior, but to help, try greeting your puppy calmly to reduce the excitement.
Submissive Peeing
If your puppy pees when feeling scared or submissive, it’s called submissive peeing. This usually happens when they meet new people or dogs. The best way to handle this is by staying calm and helping your puppy build confidence over time.
Marking
Some male puppies start marking their territory by peeing indoors. If your puppy starts doing this, you should talk to your vet about neutering, which can help curb marking behavior.
Speeding Up the House Training Process
Want to speed things up? Here are some tips to help you:
- Same Old, Same Old: And keep doing the same thing! Like, use the exact “Go potty!” every time.
- Watch Like a Hawk: So, watch your pup. Don’t let them run wild if you can’t see them. Easy peasy.
- Ding! Potty Time: But use your phone. Set reminders for potty breaks. Lots of them!
- Oops! Clean It Right: Get a special cleaner. No more smelly spots! So your pup doesn’t go there again. Duh.
Please keep track of your puppy’s habits. Write down when your puppy eats, drinks, and goes potty. This can help you figure out their natural schedule.
When Will Your Puppy Be Fully Trained?
Most puppies are fully house-trained when they’re about six months old. You’ll know your puppy is trained when:
- They can go for several hours without accidents.
- They let you know when they need to go outside.
- They stay dry overnight.
- You can trust them in the house even when you’re not watching them closely.
Handling Setbacks
Even if your puppy is fully trained, accidents can still happen occasionally. Don’t worry—it’s normal! Just go back to basics with more frequent potty breaks and positive reinforcement.
Weather and House Training
Sometimes, the weather can make things tricky. Puppies might want to stay inside in the rain or cold, but keeping up with the routine is essential. To help them feel more comfortable, take them out on a leash or use a covered potty area.
Training a puppy to go potty inside the house takes time, patience, and doing the same thing every day. It takes 4 to 6 months, but every puppy learns at a different speed.
Accidents will happen. Don’t get mad. Keep trying! You and your puppy are becoming best friends. House training is just the start of a fun time together!