There are four main things to remember when toilet training your puppy: routine, reinforcement, environment, and consistency. Most importantly, always clean up any accidents thoroughly, if the scent remains, your puppy may think that is an acceptable place to go again.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to successfully toilet train your puppy and prevent accidents.

Step 1: Establish a Puppy Toilet Routine

Routine is the foundation of successful puppy toilet training. Puppies learn best when they know what to expect and when.

Tips for a strong routine:

  • Take your puppy outside every 1–2 hours to give them plenty of opportunities to succeed.
  • Schedule trips after:
    Waking up (morning or after naps)
    Eating or drinking
    Playing or exercise

Pro Tip: Puppies respond well to verbal cues like “toilet”. Use the same phrase every time.

Step 2: Use Positive Reinforcement for Puppy Toilet Training

This is the most effective tool when toilet training your puppy. Reward your puppy immediately after they go outside with:

  • Enthusiastic praise (“Good boy/girl!”)
  • A small treat or favourite toy

Avoid punishment for accidents. Punishing your puppy can cause anxiety and slow progress. Instead, clean accidents thoroughly to remove lingering scents and focus on rewarding the correct behaviour.

Step 3: Create the Right Environment

Environment tips:

  • Always take your puppy to the same outdoor spot. Puppies rely heavily on scent, and going in the same place reinforces the behaviour.
  • Make the toilet area safe and accessible. If you live in an apartment, temporary incontinence pads can help but transition your puppy outdoors gradually.
  • Limit distractions while outside, like other animals or loud noises, so your puppy can focus on going to the toilet.

Step 4: Be Consistent and Patient

Consistency is key. Use the same schedule, cues, and rewards every day. Puppies learn over time, and accidents are normal, especially in the early stages.

Remember:

  • Some puppies learn quickly, while others take weeks or months.
  • Stay positive and patient. Reward success not mistakes.
  • Persistence and routine will lead to long-term success.

Common Puppy Toilet Training Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls:

  • Changing toilet spots frequently
  • Punishing accidents
  • Skipping scheduled trips outside
  • Ignoring early warning signs (sniffing, circling, whining)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Q: How long does it take to toilet train a puppy?
    A: Most puppies take 4–6 months, but it can vary depending on age, breed, and consistency.
  • Q: What should I do if my puppy keeps having accidents indoors?
    A: Clean thoroughly, stay calm, and increase scheduled outdoor trips. Avoid punishment.
  • Q: Can I toilet train a puppy in an apartment?
    A: Yes! Use incontinence pads temporarily but gradually transition to outdoor toilet training for long-term success.

Conclusion

Toilet training your puppy is a process that requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. By establishing a routine, rewarding good behaviour, creating the right environment, and staying consistent, your puppy will learn where and when to go. With time and persistence, accidents will decrease, and you’ll have a happy, well-trained puppy.

Written By Emily Marks

About the Author:

Emily has been working at Vetsure for 9 years and has spent her entire life around animals. She trained at Oaklands College, completing a course in Animal Management, before continuing her studies at the College of Animal Welfare, where she qualified as a Veterinary Care Assistant and later as a Veterinary Nurse.