How To Toilet Train Your Dog | Step-by-Step Guide for Success

Successfully learning how to toilet train your dog comes down to three key elements: Routine, Recognition, and Training.

Step 1: Establish a Toilet Training Routine for Your Dog

Creating a consistent schedule is the foundation of successful toilet training. Dogs need regular, predictable opportunities to relieve themselves, which helps them learn to hold on until they are outside.

Set reminders on your phone so you don’t forget. While frequency will depend on your dog’s size and age, a good starting point is every 30 minutes. As your dog matures and develops better bladder control, gradually extend the time between breaks.

Always take your dog to the same designated toilet area. Even after cleaning, the scent left behind will encourage them to use the same spot again. This is an important step when focusing on how to toilet train your dog effectively.

Step 2: Recognise the Signs Your Dog Needs the Toilet

Learning to recognise your dog’s toilet cues is essential. Common times include:

• Immediately after waking up
• After eating
• Straight after play or exercise
• When sniffing and circling a particular area
• Before being left alone, bedtime, or nap time

Before you go out or settle in for the night, always give your dog a chance to go. In the early weeks, patience is essential, even if the weather is unpleasant. Sometimes it can take longer than expected; our longest recorded wait was 40 minutes with a young Doberman!

Step 3: Train Your Dog to Go on Command

Teaching your dog a consistent toilet cue word can speed up the training process. If your dog understands what’s expected and is rewarded for doing it, they’ll learn more quickly.

Stay outside with your dog during toilet breaks and watch closely. Dogs can relieve themselves quickly, especially when urinating, and you don’t want to miss the opportunity to praise them.

If your dog is easily distracted, use a training lead to limit their movement and keep them focused. Walking slowly in small circles over the same area, with occasional pauses, can help encourage them to go.

When your dog starts to relieve themselves, wait until they are fully committed before calmly introducing your chosen cue word (e.g., “empty”). Use a steady, encouraging tone without distracting them. Once finished, reward them with gentle praise or a treat.

Additional Tips for How to Toilet Train Your Dog

Some dogs take longer to train due to weaker bladder control or slower learning. For these dogs, crate training can help, as the confined, den-like environment encourages them to hold on until they are let out.

Puppy pads or newspapers can be used for overnight training or when you can’t take the dog out. Place pads close to the door leading outside, and reduce their number over time. While this can work for small breeds, we generally recommend going straight to outdoor training for the best results.

Finally, never scold or punish your dog for accidents. Most mistakes are due to human oversight, not disobedience. Patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key when learning how to toilet train your dog.