First, don’t punish them. If you catch them mid-pee, a loud clap to interrupt is fine, but scolding later is useless. Their brain will only connect “angry human” with “the puddle,” not with “I should have gone outside.”
Instead, go back to puppy basics. Take them out every hour, even if they look at you like you’re crazy. Reward them like they just won an Oscar for going outside.
And here’s the cool part: use a bell on the door. It’s hilarious to watch them learn to ring it with their nose, and it gives them a clear, non-mysterious way to communicate.
The “Reset” Is Your Friend
Think of it like a video game. You hit a level where you keep dying, so you go back to an earlier, easier level to build up your strength again.
How To Stop A Pup From Peeing In The House
That’s all you’re doing: resetting their habits. Crate them when you can’t watch them, because dogs naturally hate soiling their den.
Give them a stuffed Kong to chill in there. It keeps them busy and associates the crate with calmness, not punishment.
