So you got a new puppy?

With that bundle of love you also get a few unexpected headaches.

Potty training a puppy doesn’t have to be difficult though, if you have the right knowledge from the start.

Here are a few easy-to-follow steps on how to potty train a puppy and keep your carpet stain free at the same time.

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How To Potty Train A Puppy

When and Where to Begin

Puppies, like babies need to have some consistency to be able to learn a habit.

Potty training a puppy is easiest when a puppy is between 12 and 18 weeks old, but if your pup is older you may have to help him to unlearn some bad habits.




During potty training, keep your puppy confined to one area of your house. Once your puppy learns that he needs to go outside to relieve himself, then you can allow him to freely roam your house.

Related: Crate Training A Puppy: Whining, Peeing & Chewing Solved

Consistency Is Key When Potty Training A Puppy

A key take-away when learning how to potty train a puppy is maintaining a consistent routine schedule so your pup can get into the habit of doing their business outside.

Consider these 5 routine steps:

• Maintain a regular feeding schedule and take food and water away in-between meals.
• Take them outside first thing in the morning, after meals, before bed and anytime you leave them home alone.
• If possible, take them to the same spot every time. The smell will help them remember what to do.
• If you have a fenced yard, don’t leave them alone outside while they are potty training. Stay with them.
• Reward good behavior with treats or praise

How To Potty Train A Puppy – Dealing With Accidents

During this puppy potty training period, expect that there will be accidents.

Never give punishment or scolding for accidents.

This creates a negative association that can make potty training more difficult.

So what’s the solution to keeping your carpet stain free from potty training accidents?

For females these washable, re-usable dog diapers have a pad that is sewn into the diaper and a waterproof outer layer to absorb any kind of leaks.

They’re much more comfortable for the dog than disposable dog diapers, and more budget and environmentally friendly since you can use them over and over again.

For males, dog belly bands, provide the same result. These bands wrap snug around your pup and have a highly absorbent pad within them.

Did I mention they are also washable?

These are awesome for keeping your own carpet free of accidental stains, and perfect for taking on-the-go if you plan to stay in a hotel or at a friend’s house with your puppy (or a dog that just generally likes to mark in new places).

How to Potty Train A Puppy: Better Food = Less Waste

It may be confusing as to what to feed your puppy with so many different foods available.




Some folks swear by raw food while some feel that grocery-store brand food is sufficient.

Of course it is a personal choice, but dogs who eat a raw diet tend to have less health problems and create less waste.

There are many different types of food on the market, do your research to find the best food for your dog and your lifestyle.

Potty Training A Puppy Requires Patience

It should take a solid six weeks to get your puppy completely potty trained.

During this time you may think it will never happen. If you remain consistent with their feeding and sleeping schedules, you will find it significantly easier.

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