Puppies are cute and cuddly, but when it comes to bathroom breaks they can be more than a small challenge at times.

*A few things to note about smaller dogs before we delve deeper into this topic - small dogs are almost always harder to train than a bigger dog due to their bladder and bowel sizes. As well, owners of smaller dogs tend to let them get away with behaviour they would never tolerate in a bigger dog. When training your small dog in the colder months of the year, it's recommended to get them a coat to provide warmth. Owners have been known to have success with litter training or using pee pads during these times as well.*

Most puppies have to go out about every half hour to an hour. It is very important in the first week or two of bringing your puppy home that you have the time to do this.

Consistency is the most important part of potty training. You must take him or her out to the same spot every time and praise your dog when he/she does his business. A few good times to remember to take your dog out are:

• 15 to 45 minutes after your dog eats
• After a nap
• After play time

Puppies should never have the run of the house unsupervised until they are well trained at going out. They should have a set area where they are allowed to be and if they have an accident it is easy to clean up the mess(carpeted flooring - not so good an idea). If you are there to monitor your puppy, it is fine to let them run around the house of course, just make sure to watch their actions for any signs that they may need to go to the bathroom.

If you're going to work or going out for any set period of time, it is best to have a "den" for them to stay in till you arrive back home. This could be a sectioned off small part of the house, or a dog crate/pen made for this purpose. Dogs are actually den animals, and love to have their own place for sleeping, resting and eating.

Most dogs do not want to mess where they sleep or eat. Make the area only big enough for them to turn around and stand up comfortably. If you give them too much room they will just do their business in the room they don't need for sleeping. Realize this is not cruel, and you will be letting them out when you get home. This will teach them to respect their den and your home. Perhaps give them a few of their toys to play with and keep themselves occupied.

Remember, it is very important to let your puppy out as much as possible. When an accident happens, only scold by saying no if you catch them in the act and take him/her directly outside. Make sure you always clean accidents up right away and not in front of the puppy. For cleaning, use an enzyme cleaner which can be found at any pet store(vinegar and water on the area works as well). You want to remove the scent completely from that area so your puppy will not re-visit it and smell the accident.

Puppy may not go every time you take him/her out. This is not a problem, just remember to try again in a short period of time(20-45mins).

Always make sure you praise your dog for good behaviour, they love to be praised and will be more inclined to want to go outside to do their business.

When returning home, make sure you remember to take your pup out as soon as you possibly can.

Things To Never Do When Potty Training Your Puppy

• Never hit your dog. The only thing this accomplishes is to make him/her afraid of you and in some cases create aggressive behaviour
• Never rub their nose in their own poo. It does not work, and in fact some dogs actually eat their own business. Doing this can cause mixed signals
• Don't get discouraged. Remember your dog will learn how to do this right, it just takes time and patience.