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Rescue dog pees inside after walks. How to potty train outside?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 9 months and 27 days old | 18 lbs

I rescued my dog from a shelter and she is having issues using the bathroom outside. We take her out frequently and she does not got and within a few minutes of returning to the apartment she goes in the house. Any tips to finally get her to go outside so we can praise her / give her treats and encourage this behavior?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Ladd, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 10th, 2017

Potty training can be very frustrating. Patience and consistency are key. You are doing all the right things, but I simply would not bring her inside until she goes to the bathroom. I would also not praise her, play with her or interact until she goes. Sometimes walking is a good way to teach this as she can get potty trained by learning to go while on long walks. The important thing is not to punish her when she makes mistakes by going in the house.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Bette Isacoff

    Dog Trainer

    Published on February 21st, 2017

    Do not take her on long walks when it is potty time. The difficulty with this is that she may or may not go at some point during the walk, but she doesn't realize that's the purpose of the walk. Her relieving herself is more of a hit-or-miss occurrence. Instead, put her on a leash and take her outside to her designated spot. Do not walk around. Just stand there and repeat "go outside" or a similar phrase. As soon as she starts to go, repeat "go outside" and praise "good dog!" as she goes. When she is finished, bring her directly back inside. If she does not go after a reasonable amount of time, bring her in but do not remove the leash. Attach it to your belt loop and keep her with you. Don’t let her out of your sight! When you see her start to circle or sniff, take her right outdoors again and repeat the process. If she does mess in the house, do not scold her unless you actually catch her in the act. In that case, say "NO!" and take her right outside. Tell her to "go outside" and praise as she finishes. Keep her in a crate at night, or for short periods when you are not at home, to prevent accidents. For further assistance with this, click on the prompt to initiate a consult.

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