How to Potty Train a Puppy or Dog in an Apartment

There’s nothing better than the excitement and love that a brand new puppy brings! That is, except for the potty training plight that comes with it. (Especially if you’re learning how to potty train a puppy or dog in an apartment - where are my fellow millennials at?

But fear not, new pet parents! Here’s our how-to guide on how to potty train a puppy, and keep yourself cool, calm and collected on your new puppy journey!

How To Potty Train A Dog Or Puppy

Build A Daily Routine

Experts say that a pup can hold their bladder for one hour, for each month old they are. Taking them out every two hours is a safe bet, and helps to establish a healthy pattern. Be sure to also take them out as soon as they wake up, after eating/drinking, and during or after play.

Pick A Spot 

Familiarity is key! Bring your dog to the same spot on a leash, every time they need to relieve themselves. Pups are a quick study, and pretty soon they’ll be leading the way!

Use Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

Many canines are very treat motivated! Try rewarding them with playtime, a walk, and/or a treat every time they relieve themselves outside to encourage good behavior!

Stick To A Feeding Schedule

If you feed your pup on a schedule, they’ll begin to use the bathroom on a schedule. Try feeding them at the same times every day, in order to make house-training easier for everyone!

Remove The Water Dish Before Bedtime

Just like humans, if a dog drinks water before bed, it’s more likely that they’ll need to use the bathroom during the night. Remove their water dish a few hours pre-bed. Most puppies can sleep about 7 hours without needing to relieve themselves!

Use Pee Pads Or Puppy Patches

This trick is especially handy for all of the apartment-dwellers out there. Put a pee pad in one consistent place - near the door is best - and if your pup starts to relieve themselves in the house, move them to the pad. You can also get a puppy patch for a porch or terrace to simulate grass and keep them on schedule when it proves too difficult to get outside! 

Watch For Signs

If you’re paying attention, pups have some tell-tale signs that they need to be taken out. Watch for these signals, and act accordingly: 

• Circling
• Sniffing/licking groin area
• Sniffing around the home
• Antsy behavior
• Whining
• Pawing at the door

Remember: you and your pup are still getting to know each other and communication is key! 

Pay attention to what your new furry friend is telling you, stick to a schedule, and reward good behavior with an I and love and you treat and we’re sure that you and your pup will be potty trained in no time!