Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 7 months old | 15 lbs
Recently we rescued a 7 month old puppy. The home we previously came from locked him inside 24/7. He rarely went outside so he only knows to go anywhere he can. Any ideas/advice on how to potty train him? We are taking him out every 30 minutes and watching him very closely so we can hopefully stop him and immediately take him outside. Sometimes he's outside for long periods of time with us and as soon as he comes in he goes though. So any advice or tips would be greatly appreciated!
1 Answer
Published on November 7th, 2019
I recommend crate training and neutering him. Intact males can be more difficult to housebreak than neutered males. https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-crate-train-your-dog/ Now, once your pup is adjusted to the crate and assuming he will not potty in the crate, you will do this: Use a leash or carry him directly from the crate to the yard. You need to avoid the opportunity for him to potty in the house. Give him 15 minutes outside. If nothing happens, use the leash or carry him from the yard and directly into the crate. Keep him in the crate for 30-45 minutes. Then use a leash or carry him directly outside. Repeat this until he eventually potties outside. As soon as he potties, praise and give treats. He needs to be rewarded so that he starts to understand. He can then have freedom in the house until you know he should need to potty again. Also, keep him on a leash in the house as this will prevent him from sneaking away. If he seems to be urinating frequently, have him checked by the veterinarian for something like a bladder infection. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions
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