Potty training problems usually aren’t about stubborn puppies—they’re about missed steps. In my work with clients, these are the 10 most common mistakes that keep accidents happening.
1. Giving Too Much Freedom Too Soon
Puppies can’t be trusted with full-house roaming until they’re consistently accident-free. Use gates, pens, or leashes indoors.
2. Inconsistent Scheduling
Potty breaks should happen at the same times daily. Skipping routines creates confusion (and wet rugs).
3. Rewarding at the Wrong Time
Praise and treat immediately after the puppy finishes—not after returning inside.
4. Not Using a Potty Cue
A consistent phrase like “Go Potty” speeds up learning by creating an association with the behavior.
5. Missing the Reinforcement Window
Rewards given too late (even 10 seconds after) don’t teach your puppy what they did right.
6. Failing to Supervise Indoors
Most indoor accidents happen when no one is watching. Until your pup is fully trained, eyes-on is essential.
7. Punishing Accidents
Scolding can make your puppy hide or hold it longer—not helpful. Prevention and redirection are better tools.
8. Assuming They’ll “Grow Out of It”
Potty skills don’t just mature on their own. They’re taught like any other behavior.
9. Over-relying on Puppy Pads
Pads can confuse your puppy about where “acceptable” potty spots are. Use carefully—or phase out ASAP.
10. Ignoring Subtle Signals
Whining, pacing, or sniffing can all mean “I have to go.” Learn your puppy’s cues before they escalate.
Want help fixing these?
This is the exact process I walk through with clients, and I’ve turned it into a downloadable tool:
Download the Potty Training Troubleshooting Flowchart
Also see:
The 4 Critical Potty Training Concepts Your Puppy Has to Learn
Cyndi Smasal, CPDT-KA
Certified Professional Dog Trainer / Integrative Pet Specialist
Author, Pet Nutrition Specialist and Pet Care/Health Coach
About Cyndi Smasal
Cyndi is the founder and Chief Dog Lover of Pawtastic Pet Solutions.
She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and has been doing in-home dog training since 2016.
Cyndi has a broad set of skills, knowledge and experience spanning two decades. She calls herself an Integrative Pet Specialist. Prior to being a dog trainer, Cyndi authored two books, studied canine nutrition and natural pet care.
For the past 18 years, Cyndi has turned her love of one dog, Norman (the subject of her first book), into a passion for all dogs. She’s helped thousands of pet parents through her books and hundreds have consulted with her about their own dogs.