SUPPLIES
Overview
Any new puppy is cute. One look into that little face, and most people can't help but fall in love. Unfortunately, puppies usually don't come potty trained. Since most puppies are like little sponges--ready and willing to learn--potty training won't be that hard. This is true with even older dogs. They are still trainable and willing to please. With a little time and patience, your new addition should be using the bathroom outside in no time at all.
Step 1
Prepare your home before the new puppy or dog arrives. Since puppies are naturally curious and chewers, remove anything it can get into that could be hazardous. Training will naturally take time, so pick up any shoes or other items you wouldn't want the pup to try out his new (or old) teeth on. Keep these tips in mind even if you are dealing with an older dog. Figure out where you'll be placing the crate, remembering that an accident can happen despite your best training efforts.
Step 2
Purchase a crate that's big enough to house the puppy or dog. Remember that a puppy will soon be growing larger, so take this into consideration when choosing a dog crate. Make sure the dog is able to move comfortably around in it. The crate is suppose to be a place of refuge, not an enclosed prison.
Step 3
Allow the puppy or dog to check out its new surroundings when you first bring it home. Accidents will usually happen within the first 10 minutes due to the animal's nervousness, so you might want to take the pup outside after the initial meeting occurs. Positive reinforcement in training is the best way any dog (old or young) will learn. You want your dog to love and respect you, not listen to you out of fear. More accidents will happen if the animal is filled with fear.
Step 4
Introduce your puppy or dog to its crate. Line the crate with a blanket and place some toys inside it, so the dog will know it's his special spot. Place the animal inside the crate for short intervals, then take it outside immediately. Dogs usually won't defecate in their bed, so the pup shouldn't relieve itself in its crate. If you repeat this procedure throughout the day, the dog will soon learn that outside is where you use the bathroom.
Step 5
Take your dog outside frequently throughout the day, even it it's not inside the crate. A puppy is still developing internally as well as externally, so she can't hold it in for too long. After periods of playing, waking or eating, a puppy will usually have to use the bathroom. If you get into the habit of taking it outside immediately afterward, you'll cut down on accidents happening. (And yes, it is possible to teach an old dog new tricks.)
Step 6
Train your puppy or dog with encouraging praise. Never train your dog with cruelty or abuse. If the animal realizes you are happy because it's using the bathroom outside, the more he will want to please you. If you show a little patience, use praise and keep to the training schedule, you new dog will be potty-trained in no time at all.
