Potty Training a Puppy: Crates, Bells, and More
Potty training is considered one of the hardest parts of raising a puppy—but it truly doesn’t have to be!
Learning when and where to go potty is a critical life skill that teaches your dog good habits for their entire lives. Once you get started, you’ll see that potty training is just another phase of dog ownership.
Here’s everything you need to know about crate and bell training your puppy quickly and efficiently.
How to Potty Train a Puppy: Crate & Bell Training
Learning to go potty outside is one of the most important steps in puppy training. Successful potty training will make your life easier and set your puppy up for years of confidence. Here are the basics of potty training as you navigate this phase of puppy parenthood.
Crate & Bell Training
Crate training is another necessary step when bringing home a puppy. It can be challenging, but your dog needs a safe space to retreat when you leave the home. If you choose to do crate and bell training, the puppy will sleep in the crate and be let out in the morning to go potty.
Get a string of bells from a local craft store or Amazon and hang them on the doorknob where the puppy will go out to go potty. Tell them, “It’s time to go potty!” and ring the bells so they learn to associate going potty with the ringing bells. In time, the pup will learn to ring the bells to signal that he needs to go out.
General Tips for Your Potty Training Puppy
Aside from crate and bell training, here are some general tips about potty training a puppy that may be helpful.
Create a Schedule
Puppies thrive on a schedule and a routine, especially when it comes to going to the bathroom. Try to take them out every two hours or so, and stick to that schedule so they know what to expect.
Learn the Signals
You will quickly pick up on the classic signs that your puppy needs to go out — fidgeting, whining, scratching at the door, or acting uncomfortable are typical cues.
Reward Them Often
Learning a new skill is hard, so use treats and rewards for positive reinforcement with your puppy. Reward him for good behavior, but don't scold him if he has an accident. He’s learning fast but is still just a baby. Give him a lot of treats, affection, cuddles, and ear scratches daily to celebrate his progress.
Set Your Puppy Up for Success with Get Joy
Need more help training your puppy at home? Get Joy is here to help!
Get all your questions answered with our on-demand virtual vet services. Connecting with our licensed vet experts is easy – all you need to do is confirm your dog’s details, start your session, and ask away! Book your free session here.
