Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 7 months and 18 days old
My pup is 7 months and still uses pee pee pads. Is this normal? And is there any way to get him in the habit of relieving himself outside only?
1 Answer
Published on November 29th, 2016
Your puppy is not using the pads because he is young. he is using them because they are there, and because he's been taught to. I do not recommend starting puppies on the pads, because now you have to untrain that behavior and train a new one. First, do not put down any more pads. Put him on a leash and take him outside to his designated spot. Do not walk around. Just stand there and repeat "go outside" or a similar phrase. As soon as he starts to go, repeat "go outside" and praise "good dog!" as he goes. When he is finished, bring him directly back inside. If he does not go after a reasonable amount of time, bring him in but do not remove the leash. Attach it to your belt loop and keep him with you. When you see him start to circle or sniff, take him right outdoors again and repeat the process. If he does mess in the house, do not scold him unless you actually catch him in the act. In that case, say "NO!" and take him right outside. Tell him to "go outside" and praise as he finishes. For further assistance with this, click on the prompt to initiate a consult.
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