Puppy Potty Training Mishaps - How To Overcome Them

Puppy potty training can be quite challenging because of the frequent accidents. Sometimes, you think you’ve succeeded after proper crate training, gradual transitions, and subsequent supervision, until an accident recurs.

So, what should you do?

If your pup has performed well in training and then suddenly fails, it could be due to a medical issue such as a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTI is common among female canines and it causes them to pee accidentally where they shouldn’t. Consult your vet to rule out any medical condition.

Urinalysis may be performed to detect UTI. It’s also possible that your pup has not fully completed potty training, which takes about four to six months, and longer for Cavoodles and other smaller breeds. Somewhere during the transitions, your pup may have misunderstood the areas that’re off limits and those that aren’t.

Find out where he/she is committing accidents and why. Too much freedom too soon may also result in mishaps. Supervise crate-training or playpen confinement vigilantly. When you’re able to determine when he/she needs to go, bring him/her to the toilet immediately. Every 30 minutes to an hour, take your pup out on a leash. Whenever he/she pees on the right place, reward with a treat.

Clean accident spots to blot out the smell so that they won’t commit the same mistake there. Never punish. It breeds fear. Training demands patience. When accidents occur, go back to basics. Repeat until he/she eventually learns.