Getting a puppy is super exciting but comes with its own unique set of challenges. One particularly difficult aspect is potty training, especially if your floor is carpeted. Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure housebreaking, which can take up to 6 months, goes as smoothly as possible. 

Make A Strict Schedule

One of the best ways to ensure that your pup doesn't have accidents is to keep up a strict schedule when you take them out. Have a designated potty time when your pooch first wakes up, around 30-minutes after he eats, and right before he goes to sleep at night. Keep in mind that a typical 4-month old puppy will have to go at least every 4 hours or so. If you know that you are going to be away from your home for hours at a time, consider hiring either a dog walker or a dog sitter to take your pup out at the appropriate times. 

Utilize Crate Training 

When it comes to potty training, a crate is your friend. If the crate is the perfect size, your pup is not likely to eliminate in it because they want their confined space to be clean. Instead, they will give you signals, like scratching or howling, that they need to be let out. Just be sure to pay attention to said signals. 

Try Out Eco-Friendly Potty Pads 

If you live in an apartment and/or don’t have a backyard, housebreaking is even more difficult. Realistically, there will be times where you can not get your dog outside before they have an accident. 

This is where eco-friendly potty pads, like Fresh Patch, come in. Due to the fact that the pad is made out of grass, your dog should be naturally inclined to use it. You can also bribe your pup with treats if he’s not fully convinced and needs some encouragement. 

Give Your Pup Plenty of Praise

Speaking of treats, your pup is going to need plenty of praise during this period. When he exhibits good behavior, like politely letting you know that he needs to go out, tell him he’s a very good boy and give him some ear scratches. 

Conversely, refrain from punishing your pup if they do happen to have an accident. It’s not effective and also not very nice to do to a little furry friend who is trying their best.