Puppy Parent Survival Guide
Day 3: Potty Training & Habit Formation
Potty training in the first days home is not about obedience.
It is about biology, timing, and management.
Veterinary behavior research shows that young puppies do not yet have full bladder or bowel control. Accidents are expected, and they are part of the learning process.
What science tells us
In early puppyhood:
elimination is driven by reflex, not intention
bladder capacity is limited
habits form through repetition, not correction
Punishment or frustration does not speed learning.
Consistency and prevention do.
Today’s priority: Reduce opportunities for mistakes
Behavior professionals agree that successful potty training relies on environmental management.
Evidence-based strategies for Day 3:
• Predict high-probability moments
Puppies almost always need to eliminate:
after waking
after eating or drinking
after play
after being released from a crate or pen
• Limit unsupervised freedom
Smaller spaces increase success and reduce confusion.
• Supervise or contain
If you cannot watch your puppy, they should be in a crate or pen.
Reinforcement timing matters
Learning happens at the moment of success.
Take your puppy to the same potty area when possible
Calmly reward immediately after elimination
Keep praise low-key and consistent
This strengthens the association without overstimulation.
How to respond to accidents
Accidents provide information, not defiance.
Veterinary behaviorists recommend:
interrupting gently if caught in the act
cleaning thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner
adjusting timing or supervision moving forward
Emotional reactions do not improve learning outcomes.
How to measure success today
Progress looks like:
clearer elimination patterns
fewer surprise accidents
improved timing from caregivers
Perfect days are not required for learning to occur.
Professional reassurance
Potty training is a developmental process.
Setbacks are normal in the first weeks.
When the environment supports success, habits form naturally.
🤍 LMU Goldens
Evidence-based puppy guidance • Ethical breeding support
(Guidance aligned with veterinary behavior research and AVSAB/AAHA recommendations.)