10 Potty Training Fixes You Can Try Today (Before You Call a Trainer)
Is your dog still having accidents? Whether it’s a puppy who just doesn’t get it or an older rescue that’s never been trained, potty issues are one of the most frustrating problems a dog owner can face.
But here’s the truth: most dogs aren’t being defiant — they’re confused, unstructured, or misunderstood. And before you shell out hundreds for a trainer, you can try these 10 proven strategies grounded in science and real-world experience.
Click Here to See the Step-by-Step Potty Plan That’s Helping Dog Owners Finally Get Results
1. Create a Rock-Solid Routine
Feed, walk, and let your dog out at the same times every single day.
Why it works: Dogs thrive on predictability. A consistent routine regulates their system and helps them learn when and where to go.
2. Use a Properly Sized Crate
Your dog’s crate should be just big enough to stand, turn, and lie down — no bigger.
Why it works: Dogs instinctively avoid soiling their “den.” A correctly sized crate leverages this natural behavior to build bladder control.
3. Start a Potty Log
Track when your dog eats, drinks, plays, and potties — successes and accidents.
Why it works: You’ll start to see patterns (e.g., “he always pees 20 minutes after meals”), so you can prevent future accidents.
4. Reward Immediately After They Go
Don’t wait until you’re back inside. Celebrate potty success right after they finish.
Why it works: Dogs learn by association. The reward has to follow the action — not the walk back to the house.
5. Use a Consistent Cue Word
Say the same thing — like “go potty” — every time they’re doing their business.
Why it works: Repetition builds a connection between the cue and the act, which helps dogs learn to go on command later.
6. Stick to One Potty Spot
Take your dog to the same patch of grass or potty pad each time.
Why it works: Their scent builds up in that spot, acting like a natural trigger to “go here.”
7. Keep Them on Leash (Even in a Yard)
Yes, even if your yard is fenced.
Why it works: Prevents playtime distractions, keeps them focused, and ensures you’re close enough to reward instantly.
8. Limit Freedom Inside
Use baby gates or a leash to keep your dog in the same room as you.
Why it works: No more sneaking off to pee in another room. You’ll catch early signs — like sniffing or circling — before it’s too late.
9. Clean Accidents with Enzymatic Cleaner
Not just any cleaner — use one made specifically for pet accidents.
Why it works: Dogs will keep peeing where they smell pee. Enzymatic cleaners destroy the odor at the molecular level.
Click Here to See the Step-by-Step House Train Any Dog Potty Plan
10. Reinforce the “Business Before Pleasure” Rule
No walks or play until after your dog has gone potty.
Why it works: If they learn that potty = playtime, they’ll rush to go. If you reverse the order, they may hold it to extend play.
✅ Don’t Give Up — This Is Fixable
Most owners quit too soon or rely on outdated methods like scolding, rubbing noses, or free-roaming. But when you shift to a science-backed system, everything changes.
Want a Done-for-You Plan That Solves Potty Problems for Good?
This isn’t just about tips — it’s about building lifelong habits that work with your dog’s nature, not against it.
This proven system:
✅ Teaches puppies and rescues exactly where and when to go
✅ Uses praise, routine, and reinforcement — never punishment
✅ Solves common issues like crate accidents, regression, and marking
✅ Works for apartments, homes, busy owners, and even older dogs
🎯 If you’ve been struggling, this might be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.