Day Two

At 3 AM, Chewy delivers a volley of barks from the crate. I roll out of bed and take him outside, where, after a few sniffs, he pees. This is a big step forward. The puppy did not soil the crate, woke us up, and urinated outside. He’s on his way.

It’s not unusual for young puppies to need potty relief in the middle of the night. I am usually up at 3 am, so it’s easy enough to anticipate and take a youngster out. Some people set an alarm during this stage. In time, the puppy’s bladder will grow, and he will sleep through the night.

Chewy’s present schedule is for a last potty at about 11 pm, with another at 3 am, and then morning potty at 7 am. This is a typical schedule. During the day, when his metabolism is running higher, he needs potty breaks every two hours or so. Activity like play time may mean another potty trip before and after.

Potty training succeeds when you understand the animal’s needs and develop a routine around them. Take the puppy out before and after activity — within 30 minutes of eating and drinking, or play. Confine him or keep him on a leash near you when he is indoors. Don’t allow him unsupervised time alone in the house.

Finally, watch the puppy’s water intake. Don’t leave down an overflowing water bowl — give your puppy water with food, and after training or play. Water every few hours is sufficient. Remember when he had water, so you can take him out accordingly.