How do we get our puppy to follow our commands?

This is one of the top questions we get. It really all boils down to consistency.

We will be adding to this post often new tips and tricks to help you with training your Miniature Schnauzer or Shih Tzu puppy! (These tips will work with all breeds!)

November 26,2024

How do I get my puppy to go potty where I want him to?

All puppies are not created equal when it comes to potty training.

Remember to be patient with your new baby. Your puppy does not have a fully developed bladder. Think of them like a toddler who is beginning to learn to use the toilet. With a toddler, you watch their cues, are they running to hide from you, or do you see “that face” lol, you also ask them every little bit if they need to go. You take them to the toilet and sit them on it. (even if they tell you no they don’t need to go) You praise them for going, even just a little bit! Then you repeat the same steps every few hours (sometimes sooner).

It’s the same with a puppy. Decide on a trigger word. It could be potty, outside, or anything else you would like to use. Use this same word every time you are taking them out to go. Look at your puppy and say, “Do you want to go outside?” If you don’t have a secure spot, you may want to grab your leash before asking the question. They will begin to associate both the leash and the question with the act of going outside.

Take them to the same spot each time. When they squat to go, praise them! Bring a small treat with you to give them and tell them “good boy” Or use your word “potty” or whatever you are using.

Repeat this step several times a day. Every few hours would be ideal. If your puppy is turning in circles while sniffing the floor, that is a good sign they need to go.

It is also a good idea to have a safe space for your new puppy to be when you cannot watch them closely. Doing this will help you prevent accidents in your home.
Do not punish your puppy if they do go in the house. They won’t know what they did wrong! Do clean it up and take what you used to clean it up with outside to the spot you want them to use and tell them your trigger word. Doing this will help them understand that potty goes outside, not in the house. ‘

Most of all, give yourself and your new baby grace. They will get the idea! Usually within a few weeks of arriving at your new home. This does not mean they won’t have accidents, but they will be few and far between!