Potty training your German Shepherd puppy can be a rewarding experience with the right approach. German Shepherds are intelligent and thrive on routine, making them highly trainable. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and understanding your puppy’s needs are key to success. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to help you successfully potty train your German Shepherd puppy.
Before You Start
Consistency is Key: Consistency is the most important element in potty training. You should also use positive reinforcement.
Never Punish Accidents: Never yell or hit your dog when they have an accident. A calm environment is important; redirect unwanted behavior.
Crate Training: Buy an appropriately sized crate before you start potty training. A crate provides a safe space for your puppy and is an effective tool for training. Never use the crate as punishment; your pup should always feel safe in it.
Step-by-Step Potty Training Guide
- Choose a Potty Area:
- Select a designated spot for your puppy to poop and pee.
- The area should be easily accessible and easy to keep clean.
- Always guide your pup to the same spot to reinforce expectations.
- Praise them when they go potty in the correct spot.
- Establish a Schedule:
- Create a consistent daily schedule.
- While in the 8–12 week range, take your puppy out every 2-3 hours.
- Gradually increase the time between potty breaks as your puppy grows. A 3-month-old puppy should be able to hold their bladder for about 4 hours.
- German Shepherds thrive on routine, so stick to the schedule.
- Take them outside frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime.
- Determine a Potty Command:
- Choose a word or phrase to use consistently, such as “Do your business” or “Go potty”.
- Use the command every time you take your puppy to the designated area.
- Repeat the command to reinforce the expected behavior.
- Give praise once they go potty.
- Stick to a Feeding Schedule:
- Establish consistent meal times to help predict when they’ll need to go potty.
- Avoid free-feeding (access to food 24/7) to maintain consistency.
- Feed puppies three times a day until they are six months old, then switch to twice a day.
- Positive Reinforcement:
- Use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior.
- Praise your puppy enthusiastically and offer treats when they successfully potty outside.
- Positive reinforcement helps your puppy understand what is expected and encourages them to repeat the desired behavior.
- Consistency:
- Consistency is crucial for successful potty training.
- Stick to the potty and feeding schedule to help your puppy get into a routine.
- Observe your puppy for signs they need to go potty, such as whining or pawing at the door.
Additional Tips
- Early Training: Start potty training as early as eight weeks old. Puppies pick up habits easier at a young age.
- Nighttime Potty Training: Develop a night time potty schedule.
- Potty Training in Apartments: Adapt your approach if you live in an apartment. Use puppy pads or a designated indoor potty area and take frequent walks.
- Boring Potty Spot: Choose a spot with minimal distractions to help your puppy focus on the task.
- Supervise: Always supervise your puppy to prevent accidents and reinforce good habits.
- Clean Accidents Thoroughly: Clean up accidents thoroughly to eliminate odors that might attract your puppy to repeat the behavior in the same spot.
- When to Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with potty training, consult a professional dog trainer or veterinarian for guidance.
Potty training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. With dedication, your German Shepherd puppy will learn the ropes quickly.