Get $150 off the purchase of a puppy! Get an email with the coupon code here.

How Do You Housebreak A Puppy In 5 Days?

How Do You Housebreak A Puppy In 5 Days?

Housebreaking a puppy in five days is an ambitious goal, but with consistent effort, positive reinforcement, and a structured routine, you can make significant progress in a short amount of time.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you housebreak your puppy effectively…

Day 1: Set Up for Success

  • Establish a Schedule
    • Take your puppy outside first thing in the morning, after meals, after playtime, and before bedtime. Consistency is key, as puppies thrive on routine.
    • Aim to take them out every 1-2 hours throughout the day.
  • Choose a Designated Bathroom Spot
    • Take your puppy to the same spot each time to help them associate that area with bathroom breaks. Use a command like “go potty” consistently.
  • Supervise Indoors
    • Keep a close eye on your puppy when they’re indoors. Use a leash if necessary to keep them near you. Look for signs that they need to go (sniffing, circling, whining).
  • Limit Access
    • If you cannot supervise your puppy, consider using a crate or confining them to a small area with puppy pads. This helps prevent accidents in the house.
  • Reward Immediately
    • When your puppy goes potty outside, praise them enthusiastically and give them a treat right away. This positive reinforcement helps them learn that going outside is a good thing.

Day 2: Reinforce Training

  • Stick to the Schedule
    • Continue the same potty schedule. Take your puppy out regularly and reward them for doing their business outside.
  • Increase Playtime
    • Engage your puppy in active play sessions, which can help them feel more relaxed and more likely to go outside.
  • Introduce a Cue
    • Begin using a specific command every time you take them out to potty (e.g., “Go potty”). Use this command consistently, so they start associating it with the action.
  • Monitor Food and Water
    • Feed your puppy on a consistent schedule and limit water intake before bedtime to reduce nighttime potty breaks.

Day 3: Continue Positive Reinforcement

  • Observe Behavior
    • Keep an eye out for any signs that your puppy needs to go outside. Take them out immediately when you notice these signs.
  • Praise and Treat
    • Continue to praise and reward your puppy immediately after they go potty outside. This helps reinforce the behavior.
  • Handle Accidents Calmly
    • If your puppy has an accident indoors, clean it up without scolding them. Use an enzyme cleaner to remove the scent, and remember to take them outside immediately afterward.
  • Adjust Crate Training
    • If your puppy is comfortable in the crate, you can use it more often when you’re unable to supervise them. Puppies typically avoid soiling their sleeping area.

Day 4: Reinforce Good Habits

  • Keep the Schedule
    • Stick to the established routine, taking your puppy outside regularly and continuing to reward good behavior.
  • Increase Freedom Gradually
    • As your puppy shows signs of understanding where to go, you can start giving them more freedom in the house. Supervise them closely during this time.
  • Use Visual Cues
    • If you’re training them to a specific spot in the yard, take them to that area every time. This helps reinforce the idea that this is where they should go.

Day 5: Review and Adjust

  • Evaluate Progress
    • By day five, assess how well your puppy is responding to the housebreaking routine. If they are consistently going outside, that’s a great sign of progress.
  • Adjust the Plan
    • If your puppy is still having frequent accidents, you may need to go back to more frequent outdoor trips or adjust the crate training.
  • Continue Positive Reinforcement
    • Keep rewarding your puppy for going outside and reinforce their good behavior with praise and treats.
  • Maintain Consistency
    • Continue the schedule and keep a close watch on your puppy to prevent accidents. Be patient, as every puppy learns at their own pace.

Additional Tips

  • Patience is Key – Remember that each puppy learns at their own pace. Some may catch on quickly, while others may take longer.
  • Consistency is Crucial – Stick to your schedule and routine for optimal results.
  • Be Prepared for Setbacks – Even after successful housebreaking, occasional accidents can happen, especially during excitement or stress.

By maintaining a structured routine, offering plenty of positive reinforcement, and being patient, you can effectively housebreak your puppy and help them learn where it’s appropriate to go potty.

Share this article

Related Articles

Get $150 Off Your Favorite Puppy

Get $150 off the purchase of a puppy when you schedule an appointment online!