Dog Housebreaking Training: How to Train Your Dog to Go Potty Outside

Posted by Oreo the Labrador on Sun, Oct 16, 2022

Housebreaking your dog is one of the most important steps in training your pup. It teaches your pet to use the bathroom in an appropriate place, and it helps keep your home clean and odor-free. Housebreaking can be a challenging process, but it is possible to train your dog to go potty outside. With the right techniques, patience, and consistency, you can help your pup become a responsible and well-behaved member of your family.

What is Dog Housebreaking Training?

Dog housebreaking training is the process of teaching your pup to go potty outside. This type of training is also known as potty training, toilet training, or house training. The goal of housebreaking is to teach your pup to eliminate in an appropriate area, such as a designated spot in your yard. This makes it easier to clean up after your pup and keeps your home smelling fresh.

Housebreaking your pup can take weeks or even months, depending on their age and temperament. The process involves setting up a routine, teaching your pup the proper behaviors, and rewarding them for going in the right place. It’s important to be consistent and patient throughout the process.

How to Train Your Dog to Go Potty Outside

1. Establish a Routine

Establishing a consistent routine is one of the most important steps in housebreaking your pup. Dogs are creatures of habit, so having a regular schedule will help them learn faster. Take your pup outside at the same times every day and make sure to take them out after meals, playtime, and naps. This will help your pup learn to go potty in the designated area.

2. Choose a Potty Spot

Choose a spot in your yard or garden that you want your pup to use as their potty spot. Make sure it’s an area that’s easy to clean up and away from your house. If you have a puppy, make sure to pick an area that’s close to the door so they can easily get outside.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is key when it comes to housebreaking your pup. Whenever your pup goes potty in the right spot, make sure to praise them and give them a treat. This will help them learn that they’re doing the right thing and will encourage them to continue going potty in the designated area.

4. Discourage Bad Behaviors

If your pup has an accident in the house, don’t punish them. This can make them scared and confuse them about where they’re supposed to go potty. Instead, try to clean up the mess quickly and calmly and then take your pup outside to the designated potty spot.

5. Be Patient

Housebreaking can take some time and patience. Don’t expect your pup to learn overnight and be prepared for a few accidents along the way. With consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement, your pup will soon learn where to go potty.


Housebreaking your pup is an important part of training and will help keep your home clean and odor-free. With the right techniques, patience, and consistency, you can help your pup learn to go potty outside. Establish a routine, choose a potty spot, use positive reinforcement, discourage bad behaviors, and be patient. With some time and effort, your pup will soon learn where to go potty.