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?
Join my free Facebook group where I host the “3 Steps to a Potty Trained Puppy” workshop.
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.
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