Step-by-step tips for quick, clean success

Toilet training is one of the first and most important lessons your puppy will learn. It can be a bit messy at first, but with patience, consistency and a good routine, most puppies pick it up quickly.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to toilet train your puppy effectively, how to handle accidents, and why feeding a consistent, natural diet from Poppy’s Picnic can help regulate toilet habits.

When Should I Start Toilet Training?

Start from day one. Puppies can begin learning toilet habits as soon as they arrive home, usually around 8 weeks old. Just don’t expect perfection straight away. It can take weeks or even months for full control.

How Long Does Toilet Training Take?

• Some puppies learn in a few weeks

• Others take 3 to 6 months for full reliability

• Smaller breeds may take longer due to smaller bladders

Steps for Successful Toilet Training

1. Take your puppy out frequently

• First thing in the morning

• After meals and naps

• Before bedtime

• Every 1 to 2 hours during the day

2. Choose a consistent toilet spot

• Take your puppy to the same area outside

• The smell helps them understand what the spot is for

3. Use praise and treats

• Reward immediately after they finish toileting

• Keep praise enthusiastic and consistent

4. Supervise closely indoors

• Use baby gates to confine to one room

• Watch for signs they need to go (circling, sniffing, whining)

5. Use a crate when you can’t supervise

• Most puppies won’t toilet in their sleeping area

• Take them straight outside when you open the crate

6. Be patient with accidents

• Clean up with an enzymatic cleaner to remove scent

• Never punish your puppy for accidents

• If you catch them mid-accident, gently interrupt and take them outside

Expert quote

“A reliable toilet routine builds trust and structure. Puppies thrive when they know what’s expected and are praised for doing it right.”

– Lisa Cartwright, Puppy Training Specialist

How Diet Affects Toilet Training

Feeding a consistent, high-quality diet makes a big difference. Processed food with fillers can cause soft stools, irregular timings and more accidents. Natural raw food from Poppy’s Picnic leads to firmer poos, fewer digestive upsets and predictable toilet habits.

Try these puppy-friendly options:

• Power Balls – Chicken Complete – Easy to portion and ideal for young tummies

• Mighty Mince – Turkey Complete – Gentle, lean and perfect for starting out

• Variety Boxes – Great for balanced nutrition and trying different proteins

Troubleshooting Common Toilet Training Issues

• Puppy goes indoors right after being outside

  Wait longer, stay quiet and avoid distracting play. Give plenty of time to sniff and settle.

• Puppy wees little and often indoors

  Get a vet check to rule out a UTI or medical issue.

• Still having accidents after several weeks

  Revisit the basics and tighten supervision. Stick to a fixed feeding and toileting schedule.

Final Tips

• Keep a toilet diary to track success

• Be consistent with feeding times and routine

• Stay calm and supportive

• Celebrate small wins

A solid routine, positive reinforcement and the right food all help make toilet training smooth and stress-free.

Explore Poppy’s Picnic for real raw food that supports healthy digestion and helps get toilet training off to the best start.