Steps to Potty Training Your Dog

Potty training a dog can feel overwhelming at first, especially when accidents happen more often than successes. Whether you’re training a new puppy, an adopted adult dog, or supporting an older pet with incontinence, the process works best when it’s calm, consistent, and realistic. The right tools—like absorbent pads and a predictable routine—can make a big difference in how quickly things click.

Here’s how to approach potty training step by step, without turning it into a battle of patience.

Understanding why dogs have potty accidents

Before jumping into training, it helps to know why accidents happen. Puppies have small bladders and limited control, so frequent bathroom breaks are normal. Adult dogs may have accidents due to stress, new environments, medical issues, or past habits that need retraining. Senior dogs may experience bladder weakness or mobility challenges that make it harder to get outside in time.

The reality is, accidents aren’t misbehavior. They’re communicating. Your dog is still learning when, where, and how they’re expected to go.

Creating a consistent potty routine

Dogs thrive on routine. Taking your dog outside at the same time every day builds predictability and reduces confusion. Most dogs need to go first thing in the morning, after meals, after playtime, and before bed.

If you’re potty training a puppy, outings may be needed every one to two hours. For adult dogs, consistency matters more than frequency. The key is repetition—same door, same area, same cue words. Over time, your dog starts to associate those signals with bathroom time.

Using puppy pads during training

Puppy pads are a helpful bridge during training, especially for puppies, apartment living, bad weather, or dogs with limited mobility. They give your dog a clear, acceptable place to go when outside isn’t immediately available.

Absorbent pads with strong leak protection are especially useful. Many dog owners use SPC disposable underpads for this purpose since they’re designed to handle high liquid absorption and stay in place. Pads can be placed near the door, in a designated corner, or inside a crate during short periods.

The goal isn’t to rely on pads forever, but to reduce stress and mess while training is still in progress.

Rewarding the right behavior

Positive reinforcement works better than punishment—every time. When your dog goes in the correct spot, reward them immediately with praise, affection, or a small treat. Timing matters. The reward needs to happen right after the behavior so your dog connects the action with the praise.

If an accident happens indoors, avoid scolding. Dogs don’t connect punishment with something that happened minutes earlier. Instead, clean the area thoroughly and refocus on reinforcing the correct behavior next time.

Managing accidents without frustration

Accidents are part of the process. That’s true for puppies, rescues, and senior dogs alike. Using absorbent pads under crates, beds, or favorite resting areas helps protect floors and furniture while training continues.

For older dogs or pets with medical conditions, accidents may never fully disappear. In those cases, pads become part of daily care rather than a temporary tool. High-quality pads help manage hygiene while keeping your dog comfortable and your home clean.

Transitioning from pads to outdoor potty training

Once your dog starts using pads consistently, you can slowly move them closer to the door, then outside. This gradual shift helps dogs understand that outside is the preferred bathroom spot.

Some dogs move quickly through this stage. Others need more time. Pay attention to your dog’s cues—sniffing, circling, restlessness—and guide them to the correct spot before an accident happens.

Special considerations for senior dogs and pet incontinence

Potty training isn’t just for puppies. Senior dogs may need retraining due to age-related bladder changes, arthritis, or cognitive decline. For these dogs, patience and comfort come first.

Using absorbent pads near sleeping areas, doorways, or favorite spots can reduce stress for both you and your dog. Products designed for incontinence, like SPC disposable underpads, offer better absorption and less odor than standard pet pads, which makes long-term management easier.

Making potty training part of daily life

Potty training works best when it’s treated as part of your dog’s daily rhythm—not a separate task. Consistent schedules, clear signals, and supportive tools help dogs succeed without fear or confusion.

For caregivers, the right supplies reduce cleanup time and frustration. For dogs, they create a sense of safety and routine. Over time, those small daily habits add up to fewer accidents and a more confident, relaxed pet.

At San Pablo Commercial, we're a family-run business dedicated to supporting seniors and caregivers by offering dependable, affordable incontinence supplies. From SPC disposable underpads to reusable underwear and sanitary pads, our range is designed for comfort and confidence. We understand the challenges of managing incontinence and strive to make it easier for you to stay clean, dry, and independent every day.