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How to housetrain a rescued adult dog that was never potty trained?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | 70 lbs

Hi there. Rescued chocolate lab used as a breeding dog. She was never potty trained. I guess kept outside in a large cage. People shouldbe jailed... Have tried rewarding ect. The normal methods. Very good dog now has big yard. Choosing to bathroom in house on carpet of course. willing to try anything to work through this. Any recommendations or tricks? Tried treats, praising. Not sure what else besides trainer (expensive) but not out of question.

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Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on June 4th, 2018

Good for you for rescuing Chocolatier. She is certainly lucky that you rescued her. I am attaching a handout below about housetraining adult dogs that may have some hints for you. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951739 While you are working on housetraining her, she should not be allowed free access to the house at any time. She should always be on a leash attached to you or in a kennel, so you can immediately catch her if she starts going in the house. Continue using treats and praise when she goes outside. If you catch her in the act of going in the house, give a quick, "No!" and immediately take her outside. Be sure to have your veterinarian evaluate a fecal and urine sample as well to make sure that there isn't any medical problem that is contributing her her problems because that will make housetraining very difficult. Good luck! I hope that was helpful and gives you some ideas. Thanks for using PetCoach.

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