How To Potty Train A Pug [12 Tips]

This post is all about how to potty train a pug, which can take some time and require patience, and consistency. Pugs are a lot of fun, but they can be difficult to potty train. That’s why I’ve put together this list of these steps on how to potty train your pug.

These tips will help you get started with the right attitude and give you the confidence that you’ll be able to succeed!

Let’s get started…

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How To Potty Train A Pug

Here are some tips on how to potty train a pug:

Step 1: Set Up a Designated Potty Area

Choosing the right potty area is crucial to potty training success. Look for a spot outside that is easily accessible for your Pug, preferably close to the door they usually go out through.

The designated area should be away from their eating and sleeping spaces to avoid confusion. Pugs are creatures of habit, so having a consistent potty spot will help them understand where they should do their business.

Step 2: Create a Schedule

Establishing a regular potty schedule is one of the cornerstones of successful potty training. Pugs thrive on routines, and having a predictable schedule will help them understand when it’s time to go outside.

Start by taking your Pug out first thing in the morning, as they are likely to need to relieve themselves after a night’s sleep. After each meal and playtime, take them out again. Before bedtime, make sure to give them one last opportunity to go potty.

For young puppies, their small bladders may require more frequent trips outside. As a general rule, puppies can usually hold their bladder for the number of hours equal to their age in months, plus one. For example, a two-month-old puppy can typically hold it for three hours.

Step 3: Watch for Signs

Being attentive to your Pug’s behavior is key to catching them before accidents happen. Pugs often show signs that they need to go potty, such as sniffing around, circling, whining, or suddenly becoming restless.

If you notice any of these signs, take them to the designated potty area immediately. Timing is essential, as it reinforces the connection between going outside and doing their business.

Step 4: Teach your pug the words “go pee” and “go poop”

Potty training your pug might end once they comprehend the order. This approach simplifies your life and the life of your pug. There are essentially just two words you should teach your pug, and you should keep using them even after they fully understand what they mean.

Teach your pug the phrases “go poop” and “go potty,” and then use them when you get to the destination. Reward your pug when he craps or urinates. Repeat this pattern until your pug associates urinating and pooping with going to the restroom.

Step 5: Use Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in potty training. When your Pug successfully goes potty in the designated area, shower them with praise and encouragement. Use a happy and cheerful tone to let them know they’ve done a fantastic job.

You can also offer treats as a reward for their good behavior. Choose small, tasty treats that your Pug loves, and give them immediately after they finish their business. This positive association will motivate them to repeat the behavior in the future.

Step 6: Take your pug to the potty area before & after exercises

This is a very important step in potty training any dog because it helps teach your dog to go potty after exercises. You need to ensure that your pug has had plenty of exercise. After exercise your pug might want to poop, taking him to the potty area makes training easier.

It is important for them to be active because it helps keep them healthy and happy. Exercise can be done in a variety of ways:

Walking or running around the house (on a leash)
Swimming laps in the pool or pond
Playing fetch with a tennis ball or stick

Step 7: Take your pug outside before and after every meal

This is an innovative strategy for getting your pug to relieve himself after meals in a certain location. Put your pug on a short leash once you’ve done feeding him, to teach him how to use the potty take him outside right away to the spot you want him to poop, and wait for him.

Always reward them with traditional goodies rather than food if they urinate, and keep a watch out to see whether they do. Pugs usually need to relieve themselves immediately after eating since their stomachs are full and they need to empty their bowels.

Step 8: Take your pug to the potty area before and after sleeping

Before bedtime, first thing in the morning, and each time your pug awakens from sleep, take him to the bathroom. This will help shape or steer your dog’s potty-training behavior.

Depending on the age of your dog, you should take your pug outside a specific number of times per day, especially after sleeping.

Potty training your dog doesn’t have an exact time limit in terms of months or days, but on average, it might take anything from one to three months for your pug.

Step 9: Handle Accidents Gracefully

Accidents are a natural part of the potty training process, especially with young puppies. If you catch your Pug in the act of having an accident inside, interrupt them gently with a clap or a quick sound.

Then, without scolding or yelling, take them to the designated potty area. Avoid punishing them for accidents, as it can create fear and anxiety, hindering the learning process.

If you find an accident after the fact, resist the urge to scold your Pug. Instead, clean up the mess with an enzymatic cleaner designed to neutralize the odor. Dogs have a keen sense of smell, and if they can still detect the scent of their waste, they may be encouraged to use the same spot again.

Learn more about caring for pugs.

Step 10: Be Patient and Consistent

Potty training is a process that requires patience and consistency. It’s normal for your Pug to have occasional setbacks or to take longer to learn some aspects of potty training. Stay positive and remain consistent with your schedule, commands, and rewards. Avoid making sudden changes to the routine, as it can confuse your Pug and slow down their progress.

Step 11: Gradual Freedom

As your Pug becomes more reliable in their potty training, you can gradually give them more freedom around the house. Start by allowing them access to one room at a time, always supervised.

This way, you can quickly intervene if they show signs of needing to go potty. As they demonstrate their ability to hold it and consistently use the designated potty area, you can expand their access to more rooms.

Step 12: Travel and New Environments

When traveling or staying in new environments, it’s essential to maintain the potty training routine. Bringing familiar items like their bed or toys can provide a sense of security and make them feel more at ease.

Stick to the established potty schedule as closely as possible, and be patient if there are a few accidents while your Pug adjusts to the change.

Learn more about training a Pug.

Benefits of potty training a Pug

Here are some potential benefits of potty training a Pug:

It makes them more hygienic: If a Pug is potty trained, they are less likely to relieve themselves inside the house and create a mess.
It promotes good behavior: Potty training helps Pugs understand what is expected of them and encourages good behavior.

It strengthens the bond between the Pug and the owner: Potty training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. As such, it can help strengthen the bond between the owner and their Pug.
It improves their confidence: Potty training can help Pugs feel more secure in their surroundings, as they will understand what is expected of them and feel more in control of their environment.
It can reduce stress and anxiety: Pugs that are not potty trained may feel stressed or anxious when they need to relieve themselves but do not know where to go. Potty training can reduce this stress, making them more relaxed and comfortable.

It helps with socialization: If a Pug is potty trained, they can accompany their owner more easily to social events, play dates, and public places.
It is more convenient: Potty training a Pug can save you time and hassle in the long run, as you won’t need to spend as much time cleaning up messes.
It saves money: If your Pug is potty trained, you won’t need to spend as much money on cleaning supplies, pee pads, or other accessories.

It promotes a healthier living environment: Additionally, potty training can help promote a healthier living environment for both your Pug and your family, reducing the risk of various illnesses and infections that can result from poor hygiene.

Conclusion

Say goodbye to messy floors and hello to a well-trained, happy Pug with these simple potty-training tips!

By establishing a routine, providing plenty of positive reinforcement, and being patient yet consistent, you’ll be well on your way to a successful potty training journey.

So grab some treats, grab your furry friend, and get ready to conquer potty training with ease! Happy training!