Potty TrainingModule 7 / 8

Module 7: Common Mistakes

Most of the cases that get labeled 'this puppy can't be potty trained' come down to the same five errors. Fix these first.

4 min read Intermediate
Course progress0%

Trusting too soon

Most regressions hit around 4 months. Stay strict on supervision and outings until you've had 30 consecutive accident-free days.

Rewarding indoors

Treating the puppy after they come back in teaches them that finishing inside earns a treat. Reward outdoors, the moment they finish.

Inconsistent door + spot

Same door, same patch of grass, every single outing for the first 8 weeks. Variation slows the association.

Free water access

Until reliable, pull water 1 hour before bed and supervise daytime drinks.

Key takeaways

  • 30 dry days before relaxing supervision
  • Treats happen outside only
  • Routine beats novelty

Lesson checklist

Action items to put this module into practice.

  • Audit: do you reward outdoors or indoors?
  • Pick the one door + one spot
  • Set water cutoff time
  • Reset 30-day counter if needed