Potty Training Your Puppy: A Practical Guide from Someone Who’s Cleaned Up a Lot of Pee

I’ve worked with more puppies than I can count. Back in 2012, I started training service dogs, and most of them came to us as puppies. Let’s just say I’ve had my fair share of messes, early mornings, and pee-soaked paper towels.

Potty training doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does take consistency, patience, and good systems. Here are my top tips for helping your puppy succeed:

1. Supervise Constantly

You need eyes on your puppy all the time. Puppies are fast, curious, and have tiny bladders. One second they're playing, the next...oops.

Watch for early signs they need to go:

• Sniffing the floor

• Circling or pacing

• Wandering away suddenly

• Whining or acting restless

• Heading toward the door (or a favorite corner)

  
  

If you notice any of these, immediately take them outside to their potty spot.

2. Use a Leash Tether

Puppies can sneak off in seconds and have an accident before you even notice they’re gone. One of my favorite tools? Tethering.

I used to keep puppies on a leash clipped to me while working around the house. That way, they were always within sight and couldn't wander off to have an accident in another room. This keeps you proactive instead of reactive.

3. Crate Training Helps

Crates are a fantastic potty training aid. Most puppies don’t want to eliminate where they sleep, so a properly sized crate can encourage them to hold it.

Make sure the crate is:

• Big enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably

• Not big enough for them to potty on one side and sleep on the other

  
  

Use the crate for short periods, especially during naps, quiet time, or overnight. But don’t overdo it. If they really have to go, they’ll go (and then you’re dealing with a messy puppy and a gross crate).

4. Rewarding Pottying: Yes or No?

Should you give your puppy a treat every time they go potty outside?

Here’s my take: it’s not necessary. The relief they feel after going is a natural reward in itself. Think of how satisfying it is when you finally get to use the restroom after holding it in. Puppies feel the same way.

That said, if you want to offer a treat, that’s totally fine. Just give it after they finish. Some puppies might try to "fake pee" or cut it short in anticipation of a snack.

5. Stick to a Routine

Consistency is everything. Puppies thrive on structure, so take them out:

• First thing in the morning

• After meals

• After naps

• After playtime

• Right before bed

• Every 1–2 hours in between, especially when they’re young

  
  

6. Clean Accidents Properly

If your puppy does have an accident, clean it thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner (not just soap or vinegar). Otherwise, the lingering smell might encourage them to return to that spot again.

Final Thoughts and How We Can Help

Potty training takes time, but with close supervision, a good routine, and a little patience, your pup will get there. And one day soon, you’ll realize it’s been weeks since you last stepped in a puddle. That’s the magic moment.

Got a Puppy? We’ve Got Your Back.

At Prefurred Pets Nashville, we help busy puppy parents with reliable daytime visits, potty training support, and plenty of TLC. Just because you have a full-time job doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy life with a puppy!

If you're in Nashville and need a little help caring for your pup, fill out our Get Started form—we’re here to make puppyhood easier.