Potty training a puppy is one of the biggest challenges new dog parents face. It takes time, patience, and consistency. But did you know most people make the same mistake over and over again? This mistake makes potty training take much longer — and causes stress for both you and your pup.
So what is the #1 mistake in potty training a puppy?
👉 Not giving your puppy enough chances to go outside.
Puppies have tiny bladders and very little control. They can’t “hold it” like older dogs. If you wait too long between potty breaks, your puppy will have accidents in the house. Over time, this teaches your pup the wrong lesson — that it’s okay to pee or poop inside.
When I brought home my golden retriever, Waffles, I learned this the hard way. On his second day, I thought I could run to switch the laundry before taking him out. By the time I came back, there he was — sitting proudly in a little puddle in the living room. That mess reminded me that puppies simply can’t wait, no matter how quick you think you’ll be!
How Often Should Puppies Go Out?
Here’s a simple rule: your puppy can usually hold it for one hour per month of age (up to about 6 hours).
A 2-month-old puppy → every 2 hours
A 3-month-old puppy → every 3 hours
A 4-month-old puppy → every 4 hours
This means you’ll need to take your puppy out a lot during the day — and even at night for very young pups
Want to know how to avoid the #1 mistake in potty training a puppy? Try these simple steps:
Stick to a schedule: Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, after playtime, and before bed.
Use a crate or playpen: Puppies don’t like to go potty where they sleep. This helps teach them to hold it until they’re outside.
Praise and reward: Every time your puppy goes potty in the right spot, use a happy voice and give a small treat. This teaches them where they should go.
The #1 mistake in potty training a puppy is waiting too long between potty breaks. By taking your pup out often and rewarding success, you’ll avoid accidents and build good habits fast.
⭐ Pro Tip: Consistency is everything. The more chances your puppy has to go outside, the quicker they’ll learn to potty in the right place.
✨ Want more help with potty training?
View my recorded “3 Steps to a Potty Trained Puppy” workshop. (30 min- you can save to watch later if needed)
In this free training, I’ll walk you through my 3 simple, proven steps to help your puppy understand where (and when!) to go potty—without stress, confusion, or endless mess.
You’ll learn:
✅ The “Hold Time” Rule – so you can set a realistic potty schedule
✅ The Power of Routine – how consistency builds faster success
✅ Crate Training Done Right – using it as a safe, supportive tool (not punishment)
Whether you just brought your puppy home or have been struggling for weeks, you’ll walk away with a clear plan you can start using the same day—and see results fast.
In a cozy home somewhere in Pennsylvania, there was a spunky fun of life pup named Charlie. Charlie was very playful and loved adventures, but there was one thing she was unsure about: getting her nails trimmed. Her family wanted to help her feel okay with it, so they came up with a fun plan to make paw touching a game.
The Early Bird Gets the Worm: Charlie’s family knew it was easier to learn new things when you’re young, just like when Charlie learned to fetch. So, they decided to start teaching her about paw touching early on.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race: At first, they gently touched Charlie’s legs and then slowly moved to touch her paws. If Charlie looked worried, they would just go back to touching her legs until she felt better.
Treats Make Everything Better: Every time Charlie let her family touch her paws, they gave her her favorite treat and said, “Good girl!” This made Charlie happy and excited for paw touching time.
Little Steps for Little Paws: After a while, Charlie got used to her paws being touched. Her family then held her paw gently, pressed her little toes, and pretended to trim her nails, giving her treats and cuddles after each little step.
Nail Clippers Can Be Friends Too: Charlie was curious about the nail clippers, so her family let her look at them and sniff them. They even showed her how they worked by clipping a piece of spaghetti! This made Charlie think the clippers were just another toy.
One Nail at a Time: When it was time for a real nail trim, Charlie’s family clipped just one nail and then gave her a treat. Slowly, they did more nails in one sitting as Charlie got more comfortable.
Quick Fun, Then Done: Charlie didn’t like sitting still for long, so her family made sure the paw touching and nail clipping games were short but very fun.
Practice Makes Perfect: Charlie’s family made sure to play the paw touching game every day. Sometimes, it took a little longer for Charlie to get used to it, but her family was very patient.
It’s Okay to Ask for Help: If Charlie had been really scared, her family was ready to get help from a dog trainer who knows all about puppies and their worries.
In the end, Charlie learned that getting her nails trimmed wasn’t scary at all; it was just another fun game she played with her family. And they all lived happily ever after, knowing that they could do anything together, as long as they were patient and kept things fun.
If you have a pup that does not welcome their paws being touched or nails trimmed, grab a downloadable copy of my Easy Paw Handling Guide: Train Your Puppy for Stress-Free Nail Trimming so that your pup can be like Charlie and learn that getting her nails trimmed isn’t scary at all!!
Do you desire to responsibly raise happy, healthy, and well-behaved dogs that effortlessly blend into your family, becoming more than JUST pets -even if you lead a busy life?!?
If the answer is yes, then I invite you to join my free group:
Have you ever booked a trip, only to later find out you paid more than you needed to? I know I have — and it’s frustrating. You do the work of planning, you get excited about your destination, and then you see the exact same trip advertised for way less. Ouch.
That’s why I want to let you in on the one question I always ask before hitting that “Book Now” button:
👉 “Am I really getting the best value for my money?”
Notice I didn’t say the cheapest price. Those two things aren’t always the same.
Price vs. Value
Here’s the truth: you can find cheap travel everywhere — but cheap often comes with hidden costs. Maybe it’s inconvenient flight times, endless layovers, resort fees you didn’t see coming, or cancellation policies that lock you in with no flexibility. Suddenly, that “cheap” deal doesn’t feel so cheap.
Instead, I’ve learned to focus on value. Value means comparing what’s included and what’s guaranteed. It means asking:
Does this booking include perks like free breakfast, airport transfers, or resort credits?
Are taxes and fees included in the price? gratuity?
Am I protected if prices drop after I book?
Do I have flexible options if plans change?
When you start looking at travel this way, you’ll see how quickly the savings add up — not just in dollars, but in peace of mind.
A Personal Example
Last year, I priced out a hotel stay for my family. On a big-name site, it looked like the best deal — until I added up all the extras: parking fees, breakfast costs, and resort fees. When I compared it through my travel membership, not only was the base rate lower, but those extras were either included or heavily discounted. In the end, the savings were hundreds of dollars.
All because I asked the right question.
Your Turn
So before you book your next trip — whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or the bucket list adventure of a lifetime — pause for just a second and ask: Am I really getting the best value?
It’s a simple question, but it can save you stress, time, and yes — a whole lot of money.
Because the goal isn’t just to travel more. It’s to travel smarter. ✈️💡
If you want more ways to stretch your travel dollars and make every trip unforgettable,
It’s where I share tips, tools, and real-life strategies to help families travel smarter, not harder.
And if you’re curious about the platform I use — the one that guarantees I never have to wonder if I’m getting the best deal (and even gives 150% back if you find it cheaper) — then you’ll love exploring the Travel Smarter Method with us. Because the truth is, it’s not about booking another trip. It’s about creating trips that matter. 🌍✈️💛
As a responsible and caring dog owner, you’re likely always on the lookout for ways to enhance your furry friend’s diet. One underrated superfood that could make a significant difference in your dog’s health is pumpkin. Beyond its association with fall and holiday pies, pumpkin packs a nutritional punch that can benefit dogs in various ways.
1. DIGESTIVE HEALTH BOOST
Pumpkin is a fiber-rich food, and adding it to your dog’s diet can aid in maintaining a healthy digestive system. The soluble fibers help regulate bowel movements, alleviating both constipation and diarrhea. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, pumpkin can be a natural and gentle solution. I will either whip up a batch of pumpkin treats or mix some into his food at the first sign of an upset tummy.
2. Weight Management:
If your dog is on a weight management plan, pumpkin can be a valuable ally. Its high fiber content helps create a feeling of fullness, potentially reducing overall food intake. It’s a low-calorie option that adds bulk to your dog’s meals, making it a great addition for those looking to shed a few pounds.
3. Nutrient-Rich Goodness:
Pumpkin is rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as potassium. These nutrients contribute to your dog’s overall health, supporting immune function, promoting healthy skin, and maintaining proper electrolyte balance. The natural goodness of pumpkin can be a tasty and nutritious addition to your dog’s daily meals.
4. Moisture Content:
For dogs who may not be getting enough water through their regular drinking habits, pumpkin can contribute to their daily hydration needs. The water content in pumpkin can be especially beneficial for dogs on dry kibble diets, ensuring they stay adequately hydrated.
5. Dental Health:
Chewing on pumpkin can be a great way for your dog to naturally clean their teeth. The fibrous texture acts as a gentle abrasive, promoting better dental health by helping to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
How to Incorporate Pumpkin:
Introduce pumpkin gradually into your dog’s diet to avoid digestive upset.
Opt for plain, canned pumpkin without added sugars or spices.
The recommended serving size varies based on your dog’s size; consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Moderation is key; too much pumpkin can lead to digestive upset.
Consult your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes.
PUMPKIN Purchase TIPS:
You don’t need to purchase pumpkin marketed for pet consumption (it is more expensive)
As long as the only ingredient is pumpkin any canned pumpkin will do
If you can’t find it at your local store, this canned pumpkin is the most affordable per ounce one I have found online c
To ease food transitions and prevent upset stomachs, I regularly add pumpkin to my Waffle’s bowl. (yes my dogs name is Waffles- LOL) This PROACTIVE approach (I always prefer being proactive when possible) not only ensures a smooth transition but also adds a flavorful twist to his meals. Adding pumpkin to your dog’s diet can be a simple yet powerful way to enhance their overall well-being. As with any dietary changes, it’s essential to monitor your dog’s reaction and consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice. Embrace the natural goodness of pumpkin and let your dog enjoy the benefits of this humble superfood! 🐾🎃
Do you desire to responsibly raise happy, healthy, and well-behaved dogs that effortlessly blend into your family, becoming more than JUST pets -even if you lead a busy life?!?
If the answer is yes, then I invite you to join my free group:
In the heart of every dog lover’s journey lies a story of discovery, wellness, and the heartfelt moments that tie us to our furry companions. Below you will discover the transformative power of a simple, age-old remedy: bone broth for dogs. Be sure to read to the end for the tale of a pup named Charlie, whose journey with bone broth turned his health around, offering a testament to the wonders of bone broth.
The Benefits of Bone Broth for Your Dog
Bone broth, a nutrient-rich liquid made by simmering bones and connective tissues, is more than just a trendy health craze for humans—it’s a powerhouse of benefits for dogs, too. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, it supports hydration, joint health, and digestive wellness, making it a perfect supplement to your dog’s diet.
Joint Health: The glucosamine and chondroitin found in bone broth are heroes for dogs with arthritis or joint issues, promoting joint health and mobility.
Digestive Aid: The gelatin not only aids digestion but also helps maintain a healthy gut, crucial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive troubles.
Immune System Boost: Rich in minerals like zinc and selenium, bone broth strengthens the immune system, keeping your dog resilient against illness.
Hydration and Appetite: Its flavorful taste encourages hydration and can entice even the pickiest eaters to indulge in their meals.
How to Make Bone Broth for Your Dog
Making bone broth is a gesture of love, a simple process that yields benefits for your dog that are anything but ordinary. Here’s how to create this magical brew:
Ingredients:
2-3 pounds of raw bones (chicken, beef, or turkey)
2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (to help extract nutrients from the bones)
Water
Optional: Carrots, celery, and parsley for added nutrients
Instructions:
Preparation: Place the bones in a large pot or slow cooker. Add enough water to cover the bones and stir in the apple cider vinegar.
Simmer: Slowly bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. For a pot, simmer for 24 hours; for a slow cooker, you can go up to 48 hours. This slow cooking process extracts all the nutrients from the bones.
Cool Down: Allow the broth to cool. During this time, the fat will rise to the top. Skim off this layer.
Strain: Strain the broth to remove any bone fragments and bits.
Serve: Serve the broth in moderation, and always cool to your dog. It can be mixed with their regular food or given as a drink.
Ingredients to Avoid
While bone broth is incredibly beneficial, certain ingredients toxic to dogs should never be added:
Onions: These can cause anemia in dogs.
Chocolate, Caffeine, or Alcohol: Highly toxic and potentially fatal.
Grapes and Raisins: Known to cause kidney failure in dogs.
Avocado: Contains persin, harmful to dogs.
Salt: Excessive salt intake can lead to salt poisoning.
If you prefer to purchase bone broth for your pup be sure to grab one that is made for dogs so that it is safe like Brutus Bone Broth or for an even more convenient way try a bone broth powder you can sprinkle on their food. In my opinion fresh is best BUT something is always better than nothing!
A Story from the Heart: Charlie’s Transformation
Charlie was a sprightly Spaniel with a zest for life, but age and arthritis began to dull his spark. That was until his owner, inspired by ancestral wisdom and the use of bone broth in their own life, introduced bone broth into his diet. The transformation was heartwarming; Charlie regained his vigor, his coat shone brighter, and his eyes sparkled with renewed spirit. It was as if the broth had not only nourished his body but rekindled his soul.
This story of Charlie and the power of bone broth is a testament to the profound impact nutrition can have on our pets’ lives. As pet parents, our journey is not just to feed but to nourish, to not only care but to heal. Bone broth stands as a symbol of this journey, a simple remedy brimming with health benefits and love.
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS BLOG POST — YOU WILL LOVE MY NEW BOOK
Furever Nourished:
Superfood Dog Treat Recipes Your Dog Will Love
Superfoods for dogs are nutrient-dense foods that offer health benefits.
Including these in your dog’s diet can contribute to their overall well-being and making treats out of them makes it all more fun!
