How to Potty Train an Adult Dog

Utilize a potty training method. Some pet owners experience housebreaking success with the use of a crate (to establish a controlled, positive environment), potty-training supplies (such as fragrant training pads and trays) or through pack leadership supervision. Understand the signs that your dog needs to go to the bathroom--such as whimpering at night, circling an area or sniffing the hardwood floors--and take him immediately outside. Stay out until the dog goes potty and reward with praise, affection and a treat.

Follow a consistent schedule. The adult dog should be fed twice a day and taken outside within a few minutes afterward. Fresh water should be available at all times, but limit access as nighttime approaches to avoid bedtime messes. Additionally, the dog should be taken out regularly right after it wakes from a nap, is released from its crate and before it goes to bed. Consistency of schedule will help prevent any unsightly home messes. Ensure you take the dog out on a leash instead of releasing him into a fenced-in backyard. The pack leader must be present to reward the dog for its good behavior. Utilize a clicker to emphasize praise response and practice a potty command, such as "Go to the bathroom." The dog will soon learn what the command means.

Establish a controlled environment. When you are home, ensure the adult dog stays nearby in a supervised area (preferably a tiled or hardwood floor area). Put the dog in the crate if you are unable to keep an eye on it, but do not cage the dog for a long period of time. Ensure a positive relationship between owner and pet is being developed through proper interaction and human-canine affection. Dogs are pack animals, and as the bond develops, your dog will want to stay near you. If it is practicing good behaviors (such as staying quiet), allow it to lay beside you.

Ensure a healthy lifestyle. Adult dogs require regular veterinarian checkups, proper nutrition and hydration, daily invigorating exercise, diverse socialization and stimulating activity (such as chewing on toys or smelling new scents in the neighborhood). Confirm that your pooch is receiving well-rounded, proper care and consult a veterinarian or professional dog trainer with questions. A healthy, happy dog is more likely to respond to your pack leader commands and understand the basics of potty training.

Ignore the inevitable home accidents. Adult dogs--especially ones new to a home environment or recently under different ownership--are bound to have an accident. If you catch the dog in the act, tell him firmly "No" and take him outside (if possible) to finish the business. If you find a mess after the fact, do not yell, harm or hurt the dog. Instead, clean and deodorize the area and ignore the dog. Use treatment sprays on furniture, rugs and carpets to prevent remarking in the future. Understand that it takes a consistent routine and positive reinforcement to housebreak a mature dog. Revisit the basic steps of potty training and consult a professional dog trainer if in-home messes persist.