When you train your puppy to eliminate in the correct way it’s a good idea to take your puppy out frequently. Actually, it’s not just a good idea, it’s crucial if you wish to teach your dog to do it outside. I have used this “2h method” with all of my dogs and they all learnt very quickly. In fact, I have a new puppy right now, and in these 4 days that I’ve had her, we haven’t had any accidents inside.

Set a timer for every second hour. When the timer goes off, take your puppy to the designated toilet area. It doesn’t matter whether it’s outside or indoors.

Once there, be patient as your puppy may not go instantly. Give it time, but do not cuddle, give attention or play while waiting otherwise your puppy may confuse toilet time with time with you.

If your puppy doesn’t go, don’t be alarmed. After a few minutes, simply take them back inside and try again a little later. Dogs are not robots after all.

If your puppy does go, reward them straight away. Use encouraging praises and make a fuss that they have gone to the toilet in the right spot. You can even give your pup a treat for a good job. But let the puppy finish toileting first so that you don’t confuse them to stop.

It’s also a good idea to stay outside for a bit after your dog is done. If your dog likes to stay outside and you only take them there to toilet they might stop toileting in the hope of staying outside longer. So, have a little play outside once your puppy has successfully gone to the toilet. This ensures your puppy associates outside with their toilet needs and a place they can play, rather than one or the other.