Outdoor sniff breaks help reinforce potty training and give your dog a chance to pick up on scent cues.
Toilet training is one of the first big milestones in your puppy’s life, and it can be one of the trickiest. Some days your pup nails it, and other days feel like square one all over again. But don’t worry, progress isn’t always linear, and every dog learns at their own pace. With a little patience, a consistent schedule, and the right tools, your puppy will soon be well on their way to toileting success.
Week-by-Week Toilet Training Timeline
While every puppy is different, most follow a similar timeline as they grow, develop bladder control, and learn the ropes. Here’s what to expect:
Weeks 8–10: This is the learning phase. Your puppy is just starting to get used to their environment and doesn’t yet know where they’re meant to go. Take them out (or to their designated toilet spot like a Porch Potty) every 1–2 hours, especially after eating, playing, or waking up. Use a consistent cue such as “go toilet” and reward them immediately when they get it right.
Weeks 10–12: You may notice signs that your puppy is starting to understand the routine. They might sniff, circle, or head toward the door when they need to go. Accidents are still common, but the connection between cue and action is forming.
Weeks 12–14: Bladder control improves. Fewer accidents occur, especially if you’re consistent with outings. This is a good time to introduce toileting in new environments like the yard, a friend’s home, or a public space.
Weeks 14–16: Your puppy can likely hold it for a few hours and may begin alerting you more clearly when they need to go. Accidents should be minimal.
Weeks 16–20: By now, your puppy might be sleeping through the night and having regular, accident-free days. It’s still important to maintain a routine and be observant.
After 20 Weeks: Most puppies are well on their way to being fully toilet trained, though the occasional slip-up can still happen. Keep reinforcing good behaviour and stay consistent.
Rest is just as important as routine. Young pups need plenty of sleep to grow, learn, and master toileting habits.
Common Toilet Training Milestones
Puppy training isn’t just about age, it’s also about behavioural markers that show your dog is progressing:
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Signalling to go (barking, whining, heading to the door)
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First accident-free day
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Sleeping through the night without a toilet break
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Toileting in unfamiliar locations
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Going to the designated toilet area on their own
Dealing with Setbacks
Regression is totally normal. If your puppy starts having more accidents:
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Double-check your routine: are they getting enough opportunities to go?
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Look for stressors or changes in the environment.
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Rule out medical issues with your vet if accidents persist.
Winter weather can also be a barrier in many parts of Canada. Porch Potty can offer a familiar, weather-proof option when it’s too cold or icy for outdoor trips.
Accidents are part of the process. Clean-ups and consistency go hand in hand during training.
Cleaning Up Accidents the Right Way
When an accident does happen, your response can either support or slow down training.
Do:
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Stay calm—avoid punishment or scolding.
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Gently interrupt if you catch them mid-act and guide them to the toilet spot.
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Clean with an enzyme-based cleaner to remove odours completely.
Don’t:
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Use ammonia-based products (they can smell like urine and confuse your pup).
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Rub or scrub aggressively—it spreads the mess and the scent.
Your Puppy Will Get There
Toilet training takes time, but every little win is worth celebrating. Stick to a routine, respond with kindness, and know that setbacks are part of the process. Whether you’re navigating snowy winters or apartment living, tools like Porch Potty can make all the difference.
Explore Porch Potty for dog toilet solutions that work year-round, no matter what Canadian weather throws your way.
For more tips and tricks on toilet training your puppy, check out these articles:
When Good Puppies Go Rogue: Dealing With Puppy Potty Training Regression
Porch Potty's Ultimate Guide to Dog Potty Training: Everything You Need to Know
Comprehensive Cleaning Guide: Handling Pet Messes on All Surfaces