Bringing a puppy home is a lot of things. It’s fun. It’s chaotic. It’s a little bit life-changing.
And then there’s potty training.
You’ve been consistent. You’ve been trying. And still… accidents happen. It’s easy to wonder if something’s going wrong.
In most cases, it’s not.
Potty training isn’t just teaching a puppy where to go.
It’s teaching timing, routine, and awareness. Puppies are learning to control their bladder, understand cues, and connect actions to outcomes.
Most puppies start learning as soon as they come home. But full reliability takes time. For many, it can take several weeks to a few months depending on age, consistency, and routine.
Accidents during this stage are completely normal.
If progress feels slow, there’s usually a reason. And it’s often something simple.
Young puppies don’t have full bladder control yet.
A general guideline is one hour of control per month of age. A two-month-old puppy may only hold it for about two hours. Expecting more too soon can lead to accidents.
Puppies learn through repetition.
If bathroom breaks happen at different times each day, it becomes harder for them to understand when they’re supposed to go. Consistency helps them build that connection.
Timing matters.
Puppies usually need to go:
Missing these windows often leads to accidents indoors.
Even if your puppy is doing well sometimes, it doesn’t mean they’ve mastered it.
Learning takes repetition. Praise and reinforcement help them understand when they’ve done the right thing.
New spaces can reset progress.
If you’ve moved rooms, changed routines, or introduced new stimuli, your puppy may need time to adjust and relearn where to go.
Keep it simple and consistent.
Take your puppy out frequently and use the same spot when possible. Stay with them until they go, then reward immediately. This helps them connect the behavior with a positive outcome.
Supervision also matters. If you can’t watch closely, a crate or confined space can help prevent accidents and support training.
Clean accidents thoroughly. Lingering scent can encourage repeat behavior in the same spot.
This part can test you a bit.
But puppies aren’t being stubborn or difficult. They’re learning. And like any new skill, it takes time, repetition, and a steady approach.
If your puppy isn’t fully potty trained yet, you’re not alone. And you’re not doing it wrong.
With consistency, clear routines, and a little patience, it will come together.
And when it does, it’s more than just a small win. It’s a clear sign that you and your puppy are learning, growing, and getting it right together.
Let’s be honest: Your dog isn’t just a dog.
They’re your baby. Your shadow. Your emotional support on long days. The one who somehow knows exactly when you need a cuddle (or a little chaos). That bond? It’s real. And if you’re a dog mom, you feel it every single day.
Being a dog mom is a privilege. And it shows up in different ways. So with Mother’s Day around the corner, we thought we’d ask the important question:
What kind of dog mom are you, really?
Let’s find out.
1.Your dog wakes you up early. You…
A. Already awake. Walk time.
B. Stretch, cuddle, then get up slowly.
C. Panic. Are they okay? Why are they up?
D. Pretend to sleep for five more minutes.
2. Your camera roll looks like…
A. Park days, walks, action shots.
B. Cozy naps and soft moments.
C. 500 close-ups of their face.
D. Random. But yes, mostly your dog.
3. Treat time means…
A. Only after good behavior.
B. A little reward here and there.
C. They blinked. That deserves a treat.
D. Wait… where did I put the treats?
4. A typical walk is…
A. Structured and consistent.
B. Relaxed, letting them explore.
C. You watching them the entire time.
D. Wherever they want to go.
5. When your dog seems “off,” you…
A. Observe first, then act if needed.
B. Give extra love and monitor.
C. Google everything immediately.
D. Assume they’re fine… probably.
6. Bedtime situation?
A. Their own bed, same spot every night.
B. Somewhere comfy nearby.
C. In your bed. Obviously.
D. Wherever they end up.
7. Buying for your dog feels like…
A. Purposeful. Only what they need.
B. A mix of needs and cute finds.
C. Everything. They deserve it all.
D. Last-minute but it works out.
Mostly A’s: The Structured Queen
You bring consistency, routine, and balance. Dogs thrive on structure, and you naturally provide it. Training, exercise, and proper care? You’ve got it covered.
Mostly B’s: The Cozy Caregiver
Your dog feels safe, calm, and deeply loved. You focus on comfort and connection, which is key… especially for young or anxious pups.
Mostly C’s: The Devoted (Slightly Obsessed) Mom
You’re tuned into every detail, and that’s a good thing. Being attentive helps you spot changes early and stay proactive about your dog’s health.
Mostly D’s: The Go-With-The-Flow Mom
You keep things easy, natural, and fun. Your dog enjoys freedom and flexibility. Add a little structure, and you’ve got the perfect balance.
No matter your result, every dog benefits from a mix of:
Some moms lean one way more than others. And that’s okay! It’s all about finding what works for you and your pup.
We meet all kinds of dog moms every day. First-time puppy parents, seasoned pros, and the ones already planning their pup’s birthday party.
Wherever you fall, we’re here to help you do it right – from choosing the perfect puppy to giving them the best start possible.
However you show up for your pup (structured, cozy, chaotic, or all of the above!), you’re doing something special.
Because to them?
You’re not just their mom.
You’re their whole world.
